Our homes are filled with scents that attract both us and our furry friends. From the comforting lavender of room sprays to the enticing aromas of cleaning products, these scents can create a pleasant atmosphere. But did you know that some of these fragrances can be dangerous—especially for pets? Whether it's from a pet's curiosity or their attraction to certain smells, exposure to certain scents can lead to severe health issues, and even death. Let’s dive into why these dangers exist and how you can keep your pets safe.
A Deadly Warning
In December 2022, a tragic event highlighted the deadly potential of certain aromatherapy products. The Better Homes & Gardens Lavender & Chamomile Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray sold at Walmart was linked to a multistate outbreak of melioidosis, a rare tropical disease caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. This outbreak resulted in the deaths of two people and the death of a family’s pet raccoon in Texas.
The raccoon, which broke open a bottle of the aromatherapy spray, walked through the liquid. Within two weeks, it developed neurological symptoms consistent with melioidosis and tragically died. The bacteria was surprisingly linked to the exposure of the spray, which had been manufactured in India. While melioidosis does not normally spread from animals to humans, in this case, the outbreak was geographically unusual.
The CDC’s investigation into this incident stressed the importance of caution around these aromatherapy sprays. Products with essential oils and gemstones, like lavender and chamomile, may sound harmless but can carry risks—especially when left unattended around pets. In October 2022, the CDC issued a recall for several Better Homes & Gardens aromatherapy sprays to prevent further exposure.
Pets and Their Attraction to Scents
This isn’t the only case where pets have been drawn to potentially dangerous scents. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are naturally curious creatures and their acute sense of smell often leads them to explore their environment. This attraction to certain smells can result in them ingesting harmful substances or coming into contact with dangerous products. Household products, from scented candles to cleaning supplies, can pose serious risks.
For example, household cleaners such as bleach, disinfectants, and even natural products like vinegar and lemons can be dangerous if pets ingest them or walk through recently cleaned areas. Pets may lick residue off their paws or fur, leading to poisoning or severe digestive issues. Additionally, products containing artificial fragrances and essential oils can be harmful. Depending on the ingredients, fragrance products can cause issues from skin irritation to respiratory distress in pets.
Common Household Hazards Pets Are Attracted To
Many items in your home may not seem harmful, but they are often scented or flavored in a way that attracts your pets. These include:
- Garbage Cans and Trash Bins: Pets are drawn to the smells of food waste, so securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids is essential. Even better, switch to bins with pedal-operated lids to keep pets out of the trash.
- Cleaning Products: Many commercial cleaning agents, especially those with strong smells, attract pets. While some cleaning products claim to be “pet-safe,” it's best to thoroughly read labels and make sure products are non-toxic.
- Food Items: Pets are also often attracted to food items like chocolate, coffee grounds, or even gum, which can lead to poisoning. Products like gum and candy, especially those containing xylitol, are incredibly toxic to dogs and can cause fatal reactions if ingested.
- Scented Candles and Room Sprays: Although they may smell wonderful to us, dogs and cats are more likely to ingest or be exposed to these substances by accident, especially if they’re left on low surfaces or not carefully monitored.
How to Protect Your Pets from Dangerous Scents
Given how easily cats, dogs, and other pets can come into contact with these harmful products, here are a few crucial steps you can take to ensure their safety:
- Secure Household Items
- When in Doubt, Keep Scented Products Away
- Read All Ingredients, Warnings, and Labels
- Use Pet-Safe Alternatives
- Monitor Exposure to Essential Oils
- Educate Yourself on Toxic Foods and Substances
- Consult With Your Veterinarian
Final Thoughts
Pets, with their strong sense of smell, are naturally curious about their environments, which can sometimes lead them into dangerous situations. Aromatherapy products, scented candles, and cleaning products are all examples of items that can pose risks to your furry friends. Do your own research, learn about these risks, and take proactive measures to create a safer home for your furry, scaled, or feathered family members.
