Scents You May Need To Avoid If You Have Pets

Our pets are special companions that we raise, care for, and spend quality time with. But what if our home is harmful to their health and we don’t know it?

Although specific seasons signify scents that we may look forward to using in our homes, we may be unknowingly harming our pets by using these aromas. Here are a few scents you may need to avoid if you have pets.

Essential Oils

Essential oils can be great for human senses; they promote relaxation, focus, and energy within us and can be a great addition to any workplace. However, essential oils can negatively impact pets, particularly cats.

Cats have sensitive skin and digestive systems. If someone chooses to use an essential oil on their cat, they must realize that the cat may ingest the oil, which can disrupt their digestion.

Although it’s recommended that you heavily dilute the essential oil before applying it to your pet, the best solution is to avoid applying external oils and creams to your pet entirely unless your veterinarian instructs you to do so.

Scented Candles

With all the beautifully scented candles on the market, it may be tempting to purchase a few candles for your home. However, scented candles can pose a risk to your pets, as the inhalation of the smoke may irritate their lungs, creating long-term health issues such as asthma, respiratory issues, or bronchitis.

This doesn’t mean you can’t have any candles in your home. You can use flameless or soy candles that do not contain irritants and chemicals.

Pets are also known to play with things that they shouldn’t touch, like candles! Try not to leave a lit candle in a place where your pet can have access to it.

Incense

Incense is a material that releases a specific fragrance when it is burned. Many people may use incense to remove negative energy from a space, repel insects, or aid in certain religious practices.

However, like candle smoke, incense smoke can promote dangerous health issues in your pet. If you’re using incense for religious purposes, try using holy water instead.

Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are commonly used to give the home a quick and enjoyable scent; however, they can also trigger lung issues in your pets. Many pets have sensitive airways, so you must avoid using air fresheners, if possible.

Try opening a window to let in fresh air or using natural linen spray to freshen your home with subtle and pleasant notes of rose, lavender, jasmine, and more.

As much as we love our candles and essential oils, we must do our duty to protect our pets and keep them safe in our homes. By understanding the scents you may need to avoid if you have pets, you’ll maintain your pet’s health for years to come!