As autumn nears, the allure of pumpkin-spice candles and bonfire-scented diffusers is strong, but approach these items with care. An animal expert has cautioned pet owners to scrutinize the ingredients in seasonal products, as they might pose dangers or even be poisonous for animals.
Dr. Suzanne Moyes, a veterinarian with Burgess Pet Care, noted, “Many pet owners are unaware that numerous household items, such as cleaning products and candles, are harmful to pets and could significantly endanger their health.”
“Products like candles, oil diffusers, and air fresheners may be particularly hazardous for pets, notably smaller ones like rabbits and guinea pigs,” she explained.
The primary concern with air fresheners involves airborne chemicals, especially volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As PetMD states, these substances can upset the respiratory systems of various pets, like cats and dogs.
“Perfumed items release airborne particles that can irritate pets’ breathing systems, with natural essential oils posing a toxicity risk to smaller pets,” Dr. Moyes added. “A better option is ensuring proper ventilation and committing to routine cleaning for maintaining fresh air quality.”
Additionally, Dr. Jennifer Coates from PetMD has remarked, “Essential oils found in many air fresheners can be highly toxic, especially to cats. If essential oils are a must in your household, ensure they are stored securely, out of reach of pets.”
“Also, birds are more sensitive to potential airborne toxins than are other animals, so I generally recommend a ‘better safe than sorry’ approach with the use of air fresheners around them.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dr Moyes advised a safety-first approach when it comes to using scented items and even cleaning products around your pets. She highlighted the importance of checking for key ingredients like phthalates and ammonia, which are frequently linked to pet health issues, too.
“Phenol is another common ingredient found in disinfectants, which can be toxic to pets and cause liver damage,” she added. “Fragrant products like air fresheners tend to contain phthalates, which are often hidden under the ingredient ‘fragrance’ – these can cause kidney and liver problems and even disrupt hormones.
“Before buying any cleaning products, it’s important to thoroughly research the ingredients and make sure none could pose a risk to your pet’s health.”
The signs that a pet has been affected by household items can vary depending on the species, but common symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and discharge from the eyes or nose. Other indicators could be vomiting, diarrhoea, or a loss of appetite, although each of these symptoms could also be caused by other issues.
If a pet consumes an air freshener or scented product, it can be far more harmful than simply inhaling it. In any emergency situation, always seek professional medical advice.
