Are Candles Safe for Pets? What Every Pet Owner Should Know.

Candles bring calm, warmth and ritual into our homes. But if you're a pet owner, you might wonder, are they safe to use around our furry friends?

The answer isn’t always straightforward. While candles can absolutely be part of a mindful, pet-filled home, there are a few important things to understand first. Some ingredients can irritate sensitive animals, especially cats, while others, like pure beeswax and essential oils, can offer a cleaner and more mindful alternative when used correctly.

The Big Question: Are Candles Safe for Pets?

The safety of candles around pets depends largely on what they’re made from and how they’re used. Traditional paraffin wax candles often contain synthetic fragrance oils and chemical additives that can release toxins into the air when burned. These may irritate both humans and animals, particularly cats, who are more sensitive to airborne compounds.

In contrast, candles made from natural ingredients like beeswax and essential oils burn cleaner and produce fewer pollutants. But even natural ingredients must be handled thoughtfully, especially when animals are involved. Pets, like people, have varying levels of sensitivity, and what’s safe in one home might not be in another.

Understanding What’s Inside Your Candle.

Wax Type Matters.

Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct and, when burned, it can release substances such as toluene and benzene, compounds linked to respiratory issues. Beeswax and soy wax, on the other hand, are natural alternatives that produce minimal soot and cleaner air. Beeswax in particular is known for helping purify the air, making it a thoughtful option for homes with pets.

Fragrances vs. Essential Oils.

Scent plays a huge role in the candle experience. Unfortunately, many commercially available candles use synthetic fragrance oils that are made up of undisclosed chemical compounds. These are more likely to cause irritation, not just for your pets, but for anyone in your home.

Essential oils offer a more natural approach, but they’re still potent and not always safe for every pet. It’s important to know which oils are considered problematic and to use them in moderation.

Essential Oils Commonly Flagged for Caution Around Pets.

For Cats:

• Eucalyptus

• Tea Tree (Melaleuca)

• Peppermint

• Citrus oils (lemon, orange, grapefruit)

• Cinnamon

• Clove

• Pine

• Ylang Ylang

• Wintergreen

For Dogs:

• Tea Tree

• Wintergreen

• Clove

• Pennyroyal

• Thyme

• Eucalyptus (in high concentrations)

Note: These oils aren’t “bad” they’re just more potent and may cause reactions in sensitive animals, especially in unventilated spaces or high doses.

Essential Oils and Pets: A Closer Look.

Some essential oils contain compounds that pets, particularly cats, struggle to metabolise.

Cats lack a specific liver enzyme (glucuronyl transferase), which means even natural substances can become harmful if not used with care.

Among the essential oils most commonly flagged for caution around cats are eucalyptus, tea tree, peppermint, citrus oils (like lemon or orange), cinnamon, and clove. These oils may be fine for humans in small doses, but cats process them differently and prolonged exposure can potentially cause issues.

Dogs, while generally more tolerant, aren’t immune either. Larger dogs may handle mild exposure better, but puppies, senior dogs, or those with existing health issues can still be sensitive, especially to strong or concentrated oils.

Safe Candle Use in Pet-Friendly Homes.

You don’t have to give up candles altogether to keep your pets safe. It simply comes down to choosing wisely and burning mindfully.

Use candles in well-ventilated rooms, and always keep them out of reach from curious noses or wagging tails. Never leave a candle burning unattended, and pay attention to how your pet reacts. If they leave the room, sneeze, or show signs of discomfort, it may be best to extinguish the candle.

Choosing candles made with natural waxes, scented only with essential oils and free from dyes, paraffin, or synthetic additives, gives you a cleaner, more mindful base to start from. But even with the purest ingredients, we encourage every pet owner to consider their own home and their animal's unique sensitivities.

Our Approach at Lily-Rose Candles Co.

At Lily-Rose, we hand-pour our candles using only the most thoughtful ingredients. Each one is crafted with BP-grade beeswax, scented solely with 100% essential oils, and free from synthetic fragrance, paraffin, or dyes. We test our candles in our own home, a home shared with two beloved (and curious) cats.

That said, we don’t claim our candles are universally safe for all pets. Instead, we offer them as a cleaner-burning alternative to conventional candles, one we hope brings balance and calm into your space. The choice to use them around your pets is a personal one, and we fully respect and support every owner's discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Safe Candles.

Are scented candles bad for pets?

Some scented candles, especially those made with synthetic fragrances, can be irritating to pets. Choosing natural, essential oil-based candles and using them with care can help reduce risk.

Are beeswax candles safe for dogs and cats?

Beeswax is considered one of the cleanest-burning waxes. When paired with pet-sensitive essential oils and used mindfully, it can be a safer option for homes with animals.

Can I burn candles if I have a puppy or kitten?

Yes, but with extra caution. Young animals are especially curious and sensitive. Keep candles well out of reach, burn them in open spaces, and always observe your pet’s response.

Do Lily-Rose Candles make pet-safe candles?

We don’t market our products as pet-safe, as every animal is unique. However, we use only non-toxic, natural ingredients, and many pet owners choose our candles for their cleaner, gentler formulations. Always burn with care and consult your vet if in doubt.

In Closing.

Creating a calm, sacred space in your home is one of life’s quiet joys, and candles can play a beautiful part in that. If you live with pets, the key is knowledge, ventilation, and gentle observation.

At Lily-Rose Candles Co., we believe in rituals that care for your whole environment, fur, paws and all, as naturally as possible.