There’s nothing cozier than a freshly cleaned home filled with warm, comforting scents, but many popular scented products (think candles, wax warmers, plug-ins and air sprays) can be harmful to pets, especially those with delicate respiratory systems or sensitive noses.
Dogs and cats experience fragrances in a much more intense way than we do, and some scents contain chemicals that can irritate or even harm their sensitive bodies.
If you’ve ever wondered whether that seasonal plug-in or “clean linen” spray is okay around your pets, keep reading!
Why Scents Affect Pets More Strongly Than Humans
Before diving into specific dangers, it helps to understand one key fact: Pets experience smell 10–100x more intensely than humans.
- Dogs have up to 300 million scent receptors
- Cats rely on scent for security, territory recognition and stress regulation
- Many animals inhale closer to the ground, right where scents tend to settle
What feels like a “light, pleasant fragrance” to you can feel overwhelming and invasive to a pet. Additionally, many fragrances contain:
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Synthetic fragrances
- Chemical preservatives
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
These are chemicals released as gases from liquids or solids. They’re what give products their scent. Common VOCs include:
- Formaldehyde
- Ethanol
- Acetone
- Petroleum-based solvents
These can irritate the respiratory system and trigger inflammation.
Phthalates
Used to make scents “stick” and last longer but are linked to hormone disruption.
Synthetic Fragrances
Hundreds of unnamed chemicals fall under this umbrella because manufacturers don’t need to disclose formulas.
Aerosol Propellants
Found in sprays, these microscopically coat surfaces and can be inhaled or licked off paws.
Soot & Particles (from candles)
Burning paraffin wax produces soot similar to diesel fumes. This is not great for humans and is even worse for pets.
Cats Are Especially Sensitive (Here’s Why)
Cats process chemicals differently due to an enzyme deficiency in their liver. This means:
- They can’t break down toxins efficiently
- Even “safe” scents can build up inside their system
- Some essential oils are downright toxic
If you have cats, plug-ins, scented sprays, and strong candles should be used very cautiously or avoided entirely.
Dogs Aren’t Immune Either
Dogs may tolerate more scents than cats, but their risk comes from:
- Constant inhalation (they’re lower to the ground where particles fall)
- Licking paws after walking on surfaces where scents settle
- Underlying medical conditions
- Collapsed trachea
- Chronic bronchitis
- Heart disease
- Asthma-like conditions
Even healthy dogs can develop irritation from repeated exposure. Many pet parents may not realize their pet’s symptoms are scent related. Here’s what to watch for:
Respiratory Symptoms
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Reverse sneezing
- Labored breathing
- Watery or irritated eyes
Skin Symptoms
- Itching
- Ear irritation
- Excessive paw licking
- Rashes or redness
Behavioral Symptoms
- Hiding
- Not entering certain rooms
- Acting anxious or restless
- Clinginess or agitation
GI Symptoms
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite
If symptoms improve when the scent source is removed and fresh air is introduced, you likely found the culprit.
Are Any Candles Safe? Good news: yes — safer alternatives exist.
Opt for:
- 100% soy candles
- Beeswax candles
- Cotton or wooden wicks
- Unscented or naturally scented (with pet-safe essential oils only)
- High ventilation during and after burning
Avoid:
- Paraffin wax
- Heavily perfumed candles
- Anything with mystery “fragrance blends”
- Candle warmers with unknown wax ingredients
What About Essential Oil Diffusers?
Diffusers can be safe if used correctly, but they are still risky:
Unsafe oils for dogs & cats include:
- Tea tree
- Eucalyptus
- Citrus
- Pine
- Peppermint
- Wintergreen
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Ylang ylang
For cats specifically, ANY essential oil used in a diffuser can be problematic if droplets land on their fur — and they groom themselves frequently.
If you want to diffuse:
- Keep it in a pet-free room
- Ensure proper ventilation
- Use extremely diluted oils
- Watch for signs of irritation
Safe Ways to Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh (Pet-Friendly Alternatives)
You don’t have to choose between a pleasant home and a safe one. Try these:
1. Open windows regularly – Especially on crisp shoreline days.
2. Run an air purifier with a HEPA filter – Amazing for odor control, allergies, and general air quality.
3. Wash pet bedding frequently – Every 1–2 weeks keeps odors down naturally.
4. Use baking soda-based odor absorbers – Great for litter boxes, carpets, and closets.
5. Use pet-safe plant-based cleaners – Avoid artificial fragrances and choose naturally derived options.
6. Keep humidifiers clean – Dirty humidifiers can create a musty smell (and spread bacteria).
7. Diffuse light, pet-safe scents in a room where pets can leave – Lavender (only if heavily diluted), rose and chamomile are generally safer but should still be used sparingly.
Final Thoughts: Fresh Air Is Better Than Fake Air
Everyone wants a clean, welcoming home – we get it! But there’s a big difference between a naturally fresh home and a chemically scented one. Dogs and cats don’t have the option to “step outside for some air,” so we have to be mindful of what we release into the spaces they live and breathe in 24/7.
A few small swaps can make a world of difference in their comfort and health.
If you ever have concerns about scents, air quality, or how to safely freshen your home, our team is always happy to help guide you toward pet-friendly solutions. After all, your pets are family and keeping them healthy is always our top priority.