Are pet perfumes a health risk for your furry friends? Here’s what an expert has to say

“When used correctly and in moderation, pet perfumes are generally designed to be safe and shouldn’t significantly affect a pet’s sense of smell,” said J S Rama Krishna, business head at Growel Pet Nutrition. “However, it’s important to remember that pets, especially dogs, have a much more acute sense of smell than humans. Strong scents can be overwhelming and potentially distressing for them. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose pet-specific perfumes that are formulated to be mild and non-irritating,” he said.

Precautions to keep in mind when applying pet perfumes

Choose pet-specific products: Use perfumes specifically designed for pets, as human perfumes contain chemicals harmful to animals.

Use diluted forms: Dilute the perfume according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Natural ingredients: Opt for products with natural, non-toxic ingredients. Avoid perfumes with alcohol, essential oils, or synthetic fragrances that might cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Patch test: Test the perfume on a small area of your pet’s skin before full application to check for adverse reactions.

Avoid Sensitive Areas: Do not spray perfume near your pet’s face, especially around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Apply it to the back or neck where they are less likely to lick it off.

Moderation: Use perfume sparingly; a small amount is sufficient, as overuse can lead to discomfort or health issues.

Ingredients in perfumes can also cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. (Source: Freepik)

Krishna also suggested avoiding the following ingredients especially for dogs:

•Essential oils: Avoid oils like eucalyptus and lavender, which can be toxic.

•Ethanol (alcohol) and artificial dyes: These can cause allergic reactions and irritation.

•Parabens: These preservatives may cause hormonal imbalances and skin irritation.

•Phthalates: Chemicals used to extend fragrance, potentially disrupting endocrine functions.

And when it comes to cats:

•Essential oils: Avoid oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and citrus, which are highly toxic.

•Phenol-based Compounds: Found in synthetic fragrances and cleaning agents, these can be harmful.

•Ethanol (alcohol) and artificial dyes: Toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation.

What are the potential health risks associated with these perfumes?

Krishna listed skin irritation as a major concern for pet owners. Some pets may react negatively to chemicals in perfumes, resulting in rashes or itching. Ingredients in perfumes can also cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. If pets lick the perfume off their fur, it may lead to gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhoea.

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