A question that often comes up on reddit and Quora is if scented candles are safe for cats or not. Sometime, more specifically, are Bath and Body Works candles safe for cats?
Like all other scented candles, Bath and Body Works candles are unsafe for your pets. They are safe only when used strictly according to their instructions, but direct contact can harm your pets.
Our feline friends are more sensitive to scents as they metabolize fragrance materials differently. Although recommended usage of scent products, such as phenolics or essential oils, does not harm cats, direct contact on the skin or ingestion can cause serious problems.
If you love having a scented aroma around your home but fear what it will do to your beloved cats, you have landed on the right page. This article will provide the best advice about doing both things together without complications.
Popular Bath and Body Works Candles, And Whether They Are Safe For Cats
| Bath and Body Works Candle | Aroma | Wicks | Safe for Cats? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Balsam | Fir Branches, Woodland Balsam, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus | 3 | No, direct contact may harm cats |
| Bubbly Rose | Rose, Orange, Cranberry juice | 3 | No, scent may irritate cats |
| Japanese Cherry Blossom | Pear, Sandalwood, Japanese Cherry Blossom | 3 | No, direct contact may harm cats |
| Vanilla Bean Noel | Vanilla, Marshmallow Fluff | 1 | No, scent may irritate cats |
| Watermelon Lemonade | Watermelon, Meyer Lemon, Sparkling water | 1 | No, direct contact may harm cats |
Is Burning Scented Candles Bad For Cats?
Yes, burning any scented candle around cats may not be healthy for them. Cats are more sensitive to scent than humans, which is why inhaling candle fumes can be harmful to your feline buddies. The fragrance can cause breathing problems or irritation, not ideal for your pet.
Here are some of the problems associated with burning candles near cats.
Candle Fumes Are Harmful to Cats
Inhaling candle fumes can cause various health issues for your cat. For instance, if your feline pet suffers from bronchitis, asthma, or other respiratory problems, burning candles near them can worsen these complications.
Additionally, owners of flat-faced or short-nose, such as the Himalayan or Persian cats, should take more caution while burning scented candles.
Paraffin Wax Isn’t Safe For Cats
Paraffin wax is a product of petroleum, which means it’s neither environmentally friendly nor sustainable.
It releases harmful gases while burning, and your curious cat may be the first victim to inhale these poisonous chemicals.
Bath and Body Works candles have a limited amount of paraffin wax too, so it would be best to light them in a well-ventilated room, away from your cat.
Candles Become Fire Hazards Around Cats
Cats are curious creatures, and they like to explore their surroundings firsthand, and a burning candle is no exception.
It can lead to a fire accident which may burn your cat or possibly your room, leading to a series of unfortunate events.
How Do I Know If My Cat Is Sensitive To Scented Candles?
So are there any signs that indicate sensitivity? Yes, you can determine whether your cat is sensitive to scented candles if it starts exhibiting any of these symptoms whenever you light a candle:
- coughing
- watery eyes
- sneezing
- itching
- skin rashes
- runny nose
Are Bath and Body Works candles toxic for cats?
Since most Bath and Body Works candles contain paraffin wax, they can be toxic for cats.
Airborne soot from these candles can penetrate your pet’s lungs and reduce the respiratory tract.
Additionally, paraffin-based candles can release carcinogens and inflammatory agents into your room, leading to increased risk of neurological diseases or accelerating the effects of existing respiratory conditions like asthma.
According to experts, burning candles for a prolonged period can increase cancer-inducing molecules in the air. These free radicals become more lethal if you burn candles in a closed environment, harmful to humans and pets.
The effects of these dangerous chemicals can be more potent to your pets as they are smaller and fail to counter toxins quickly.
Furthermore, pets are more sensitive to odors, and while you may be relaxed and enjoy the latest Bath and Body Works fragrance, it can be overwhelming for your feline friend.
The best way to help your cat is to light a candle in a room without them, as it will help you enjoy the scent while keeping your pet safe.
Always make sure the room remains well ventilated, since Bath and Body Works Candles are not so good for humans either.
What Alternatives Do We Have?
Is there any middle ground – a scented candle that is both safe for cats, and can be used for aromatherapy? Yes there is.
If separating from the wide range of BBW candles and their aromatic fragrance is not possible for you, choose their soy-based candles instead. These candles are non-toxic and do not release harmful chemicals into the air.
Here are some of the benefits of using soy candles:
- Soy candles do not release carcinogens or toxins
- They burn longer
- Biodegradable and environmental-friendly
- Do not contain nasty chemicals
- They do not contain animal fats
However, ensure that you check the label carefully before purchasing.
Additionally, you can choose scents that are safe for pets, including frankincense, chamomile, lavender, myrrh, catnip, valerian, and peppermint.
Tips for burning candles safely
Candles can provide feelings of relaxation and tranquility, but they can also be lethal to us and our pets. Here are some of the tips you need to consider to burn candles safely.
Monitor Your Candles
One of the best ways to avoid candle hazards is to monitor them while burning. It would be best to burn candles and watch them throughout the burning process.
Personally, I don’t light Bath and Body Works candles if I’m not going to be around the room anyways.
Burn Candles In A Well Ventilated Room
Since candle fumes are dangerous, it would be best not to use them in a closed environment.
Keep your fans running if possible, and open up the windows to prevent candle fumes from accumulating in the room.
Keep Your Cats Away
Always ensure that you light a candle without your cats present in the same room. I know, easier said than done.
This action will help you experience the feeling of relaxation without worrying about your cats being harmed.
Wrapping Up
-
Are Bath and Body Works candles bad for cats?
B&BW candles can be bad for cats if they directly contact the product.
However, if you follow the instructions and take safety precautions while burning these candles, you can keep your cats safe.
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Are all scented candles dangerous for cats?
Since cats are more vulnerable to scents, they can cause health issues, such as irritation, breathing problems, or other problems.
Using these candles in a well-ventilated room away from cats would be the ideal solution. -
Are Bath and Body Works air fresheners safe for cats?
B&BW air fresheners contain essential oils which can be toxic for cats.
It would be best to use air fresheners in a well-ventilated room and away from your feline buddies.
Always watch out if you cats start experiencing any breathing problems whenever you use a new air freshener.
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Are Bath and Body Works candles safe to burn around cats?
Candles release toxic fumes into the environment if they use ingredients such as Paraffin Wax.
Unless you have a well-ventilated room, these fumes can linger around your surrounding for hours.
Additionally, burning candles around cats can increase fire hazards, which is not ideal for your pet or home.
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Bath and Body Works produces some of the finest candles in the industry.
Although these candles induce feelings of tranquility and relaxation for humans, your pets may suffer because of their fumes or fragrance.
The best way of lighting a candle is in a well-ventilated room, which allows the air to circulate freely.
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