Vicks, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Lavender...

[Jems71]

My question is does anyone know if any of the following would be harmful for the rats to be breathing in...vicks vapor rub in a humidifier or Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea Tree and Lavender essential oils in a cup of water (to help humidify the air)
In the winter when we get the heat on I put a mug of water on the heater in my children’s room...I will put in a few drops of essential oils to help open the air ways of the kids especially cold in flu season, helps with the breathing (asthma and bronchitis) When someone has a bad cold we might use a humidifier with some vicks vapor rub melted into the water.

This is not bad for us humans and is helpful when we have colds with respiratory issues.
So would it be ok for the rats...of course I would not let them near these mugs or vaporizers as some of this stuff could be toxic if ingested (vicks)...anyone?

Thanks
T

 

[lilspaz68]

Those are all strong for a wee rat with a sensitive respiratory system. Most of us won't use scented candles in the same room, air freshners...I even stopped wearing perfume entirely. I wouldn't advise these be used in the same room with your rats if possible.

 

[jorats]

I agree with lilspaz... I make sure there are no scents around my rats.

 

[Maple]

:yeah: Smells to big for critters to small.

 

[SQ]

I too agree.
I do not allow strong scents such as air fresheners, perfume, etc in my apartment because of the ratties.
Many of us humidify the air in the rooms where our rats are so that the air does not become too dry.

I use a cool mist humidifer which I purchased for the ratties several years ago.

 

[pscychopomp]

What humidity do you like to keep it at? Right now its 25% here, last night I saw it go to only 13% :shock: I'm afraid of it affecting the rats.