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menthol (countable and uncountable, plural menthols) (chemistry) a cyclic monoterpene alcohol; the major component of the essential oil of peppermint; used in pharmaceutical preparations as an antitussive and antipruritic agent, as a nasal decongestant, and in menthol cigarettes.
No only can menthol be toxic to cats, but the source of menthol (such as menthol cigarettes) can be even worse. Menthol can be fatal when ingested but menthol essential oils (including peppermint) are also very irritating to the skin. Use catnip instead! Drew Weigner, DVM, ABVP.