TL;DR — Scented candles can pose risks to pets, especially if they contain ingredients like paraffin wax, lead wicks, or essential oils such as citrus, pine, or cinnamon. Opt for candles made with natural, pet-safe ingredients and keep them out of reach to ensure your furry friend stays safe.
There’s nothing like lighting a scented candle to set the mood—whether you’re chasing cozy vibes, masking some post-dinner kitchen chaos, or just making your home feel more you. But if you’re a proud pet parent, you know the drill: everything in your home has to pass the “furry friend test.”
That includes the candles you burn.
Let’s cut to the chase: not all candles are pet-friendly. Some can even cause serious health issues for your four-legged companions. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your pup’s paws). Here’s everything you need to know about burning candles safely around pets.
Are Candles Safe for Dogs?
The short answer? It depends. Dogs have a keen sense of smell (40 times stronger than yours!), which means strong scents can overwhelm them—even if they smell amazing to you. Worse, certain ingredients commonly found in candles, like paraffin wax and artificial dyes, can irritate their respiratory system or, in extreme cases, make them sick.
For dogs, essential oils like cinnamon, pine, citrus, and clove can be particularly annoying. Inhaling these oils may cause sneezing, coughing, or even vomiting. Long-term exposure to candles with paraffin wax or phthalates can also lead to chronic respiratory issues.
And let’s not forget the obvious risk: an overly curious pup knocking over a lit candle or munching on wax. (Because yes, some dogs will eat anything.)
Are Candles Safe for Cats?
Cats are a different story—but not by much. Their compact size and unique biology make them even more sensitive to toxins. If a scented candle releases harmful chemicals, your cat’s tiny lungs are more likely to feel the effects quickly.
Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and citrus are particularly dangerous for cats because their livers lack the enzymes needed to break down certain compounds. Prolonged exposure can lead to symptoms ranging from drooling to serious respiratory distress.
Cats are also notorious for their curiosity. A flickering flame or a new scent might seem like a fun toy—until your whiskered friend gets too close for comfort. Burns and accidents are always a risk, so it’s essential to keep candles well out of paw’s reach (pro tip: try a glass hurricane candle holder!)
Are Havilah Candles Safe for Pets?
At Havilah & Co., we’re committed to crafting natural, non-toxic candles that are clean, intentional, and as safe as possible. But here’s the deal: even the cleanest candles can pose risks to pets depending on the ingredients and essential oils used.
Here’s a breakdown of our scents and whether they pass the pet-friendliness test:
- Forever Summer & Bergamot: ❌ No
- Sea Salt & Santal: ✅ Yes
- Desert Bloom & Saffron: ✅ Yes
- Citrus Sunrise & Lemon: ❌ No
- Northern Lights & Tabak: ❌ No
- Frosted Winter & Pine: ❌ No
- Christmas Eve & Spices: ❌ No
- Autumn Acres & Vanilla: ❌ No
Why the mixed results? It comes down to essential oils. Some of our candles contain oils like citrus, pine, or spice blends that aren’t pet-safe. Others, like Sea Salt & Santal or Desert Bloom & Saffron, are free of these potentially harmful ingredients, making them a safer option for households with pets.
What to Do If Your Pet Consumes Candle Wax
First things first: don’t panic. If your pet eats a small amount of wax from a Havilah candle, it’s likely non-toxic (thanks to our clean ingredients). However, the situation can still be serious, especially if the candle contains essential oils or synthetic fragrances.
Here’s what to do:
- Contact Your Vet: Call your veterinarian immediately with details about the candle and any symptoms your pet is showing. They’ll guide you on next steps. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435.
- Check the Ingredients: Look at the specific candle they’ve eaten to identify any harmful components, such as essential oils.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
- Avoid Future Mishaps: Store candles in a high, secure place to prevent curious paws or snouts from reaching them.
Your Furry Friends Deserve Safe Scents
At Havilah & Co., we believe your home should feel cozy and safe—for everyone, including your pets. While our candles are as clean as they come, it’s always smart to err on the side of caution. Keep candles out of reach of curious dogs and cats, and opt for our pet-friendlier scents like Sea Salt & Santal or Desert Bloom & Saffron if you want to enjoy ambiance without worry.
Your furry friends will thank you, even if they can’t quite say it.
