are candles bad for cats

Candles can be bad for cats, especially if they are scented with certain essential oils or made from paraffin wax. Many scented candles contain essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, cinnamon, peppermint, and lavender oils, which are toxic to cats because cats lack the liver enzymes needed to safely break down these compounds. Burning paraffin wax candles releases harmful substances such as toluene, benzene, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter, which can irritate a cat's respiratory system and cause long-term health issues. Cats with underlying respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable. Besides the chemical risks, candles also pose a physical hazard due to the open flame and possibility of being knocked over by curious cats, leading to burns or fires. Safer options for cat owners include unscented beeswax or pure soy candles without added fragrances, and LED flameless candles which eliminate both toxicity and fire risks. When using any candles around cats, it is important to keep them in areas inaccessible to cats, ensure good ventilation, and never leave burning candles unattended. In summary, many common candles can be harmful or dangerous to cats due to toxic ingredients and fire risks, but careful selection and precautions can make candle use safer in homes with cats.