What smells 'therapeutic' to you can be a deadly airborne hazard for your cat or dog. Here is why 'natural' isn't always safe.
When you diffuse oils, you suspend tiny droplets in the air. For your pet, these aren't just scents; they are chemicals entering their bloodstream via the lungs almost instantly.
Unlike humans, cats lack 'glucuronyl transferase.' This means they can't break down phenols found in many oils. Toxins simply build up until the liver fails.
Commonly bought at Clicks or Dis-Chem for skin care, Tea Tree oil is a potent neurotoxin when aerosolised. It can cause tremors and stumbling in small pets.
During blackouts, we burn more candles. Budget paraffin candles release benzene and soot. In a closed room during stage 4, the air quality becomes dangerous for pets.
It's not just what they breathe. Oil droplets settle on their fur. When your pet grooms themselves, they swallow concentrated toxins that were never meant to be eaten.
Peppermint oil contains pulegone. While it smells refreshing to us, it can cause severe liver necrosis in dogs and cats if the concentration in the air is too high.
Is your cat 'hacking' like they have a hairball? It might be feline asthma caused by your candles. Squinting eyes or lethargy are also major red flags.
Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct. Burning it releases toluene and benzene. Switching to beeswax or soy is a must for pet-centric South African homes.
If your pet seems wobbly or is coughing, move them to fresh air immediately. Open all windows and wash their fur with mild soap to remove settled oils.
Ditch the ultrasonic mists. Use HEPA air purifiers for odours. If you must use a scent, ensure your pet has an 'escape route' to a different room.
A fragranced home shouldn't cost your pet's liver health. By choosing cleaner waxes and avoiding toxic oils, you curate a home that is truly therapeutic for everyone.
Get the full checklist of toxic oils to avoid and see our top-rated pet-safe candle brands available in SA.