Are Soy Wax Candles Safe for Pets?

If you’re anything like us, you love lighting a few candles to set the mood. Whether it’s for a cosy night in, a relaxing bath, or just to freshen up the house, there’s nothing like the warm glow and pleasant fragrance of a candle. But if you’ve got pets running around, you might be wondering are soy wax candles actually safe for them?

What Are Soy Wax Candles?

Unlike traditional candles made from paraffin wax, soy wax is a natural, plant-based alternative. It’s made from soybean oil, which makes it a more eco-friendly and sustainable option. A big tick if you’re trying to reduce your environmental impact!

But what really sets soy wax apart is how clean it burns. Compared to paraffin, which can give off potentially harmful chemicals when lit, soy wax produces far less soot and fewer toxins. This makes it not only better for indoor air quality which is important if you’ve got pets or family members who are sensitive to smoke.

Are Soy Wax Candles Safe for Pets?

Right, down to the main question: are soy wax candles safe for pets? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Soy wax is non-toxic, which means it’s much safer than paraffin candles. If your pet gets curious and decides to lick or nibble on a bit of soy wax, they’re not likely to suffer any major harm. That being said, it’s still not a good idea to let them snack on it, as eating large amounts of any kind of wax could lead to stomach upset.

The real issue with candles isn’t usually the wax itself, but rather the other ingredients in the candle—things like fragrances, essential oils, and the type of wick used. Some scented candles, even if they’re made from soy wax, can still contain ingredients that are harmful to pets.

Watch Out for Harmful Ingredients

While soy wax is generally pet-friendly, not all soy candles are created equal. Many contain added fragrances or essential oils that can be toxic to pets. Here are a few common ingredients you’ll want to avoid:

  • Essential oils: Certain oils can be harmful to pets, especially cats. Eucalyptus, tea tree, cinnamon, and citrus oils are a few examples of oils that are toxic to pets, even in small amounts. We don’t use essential oils in any of our soy wax candle fragrances.
  • Synthetic fragrances: Some candles use artificial fragrances, which can release chemicals that might irritate your pet’s respiratory system. If you’ve noticed your pet sneezing or coughing more than usual when a candle is burning, it could be the fragrance that’s the culprit.
  • Wicks with metals: Avoid candles with lead or zinc core wicks, as burning these can release harmful metals into the air. Always go for candles with cotton or paper wicks for a safer burn.

Tips for Using Soy Wax Candles Safely Around Pets

Just because soy wax candles are safer doesn’t mean you can forget about basic safety. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your candles without worrying about your pets:

  • Supervise your pets: Never leave a candle burning unattended if you’ve got pets around. Cats, especially, are notorious for knocking things over, and you don’t want a fire hazard on your hands.
  • Keep them out of reach: Place your candles in areas where your pets can’t easily get to them. High shelves or sturdy surfaces work well to avoid accidents.
  • Ventilate the room: Even with cleaner-burning soy wax candles, it’s still a good idea to keep the room well-ventilated, especially if your pet has any respiratory issues.
  • Choose unscented or lightly scented candles: If you’re really concerned, opt for unscented soy candles or ones with light, natural fragrances that are less likely to cause irritation.

FAQs: What Pet Owners Want to Know

Can soy wax candles harm cats or dogs?
No, soy wax candles are generally safe for pets. However, avoid candles with harmful essential oils or synthetic fragrances, which could irritate your pet’s skin or respiratory system.

What happens if my pet eats part of a soy wax candle?
In small amounts, soy wax is non-toxic and should pass through your pet’s system without much issue. But if they’ve gobbled up a large chunk, it’s best to keep an eye on them and contact your vet if they seem uncomfortable.

Are soy wax melts safe for pets?
Like soy wax candles, melts are generally safe, but again, avoid heavily fragranced ones or those containing harmful essential oils. Always store them out of reach of curious pets.

Is the scent from soy wax candles safe for pets?
The soy wax itself is fine, but some scents (particularly from certain essential oils) can be harmful. If in doubt, opt for unscented candles or check that the fragrances used are pet-safe.

Which Essential Oils can be Harmful to Pets?

Certain essential oils can be harmful to pets, particularly when ingested, inhaled in concentrated amounts, or absorbed through their skin. Here are some common essential oils that are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs:

  1. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca)
    Even small amounts can cause severe reactions in both cats and dogs, leading to symptoms like weakness, depression, vomiting, and even tremors.
  2. Eucalyptus Oil
    Known for its strong aroma, eucalyptus can irritate the respiratory system and cause excessive slobbering, vomiting, or diarrhoea in pets when ingested or inhaled in large quantities.
  3. Cinnamon Oil
    Cinnamon can cause skin irritation, as well as digestive problems like vomiting and diarrhoea. Large amounts can lead to more severe reactions, including liver damage.
  4. Pine Oil
    Common in cleaning products, pine oil can irritate a pet's stomach, cause vomiting.
  5. Citrus Oils (Lemon, Orange, Grapefruit)
    Citrus oils are often found in fragrances and cleaners, but they can be toxic to pets if ingested or even inhaled, causing depression, vomiting, and sensitivity to light.
  6. Peppermint Oil
    While refreshing for humans, peppermint oil can cause breathing problems, lethargy, and vomiting in pets if ingested or inhaled in large amounts.
  7. Wintergreen Oil
    Often used for pain relief in humans, wintergreen oil is highly toxic to pets, particularly cats, and can cause gastrointestinal upset and liver failure.
  8. Ylang Ylang Oil
    This floral essential oil can lead to breathing issues, lethargy, and potential toxicity when pets are exposed to it in large amounts.
  9. Lavender Oil
    While lavender is generally safer than some other oils, it can still cause mild toxicity in pets if ingested or applied in concentrated amounts. Cats, in particular, can develop digestive upset or lethargy.
  10. Clove Oil
    Clove oil can cause symptoms like vomiting and even liver toxicity in large quantities. It is particularly dangerous for cats and dogs.

Signs of Essential Oil Toxicity in Pets:

If your pet is exposed to a harmful essential oil, they may show symptoms like:

  • Slobbering or excessive licking
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Tremors or seizures
  • Skin irritation or redness

You should consult a vet as a matter of urgency if your pet experiences these symptoms. 

In Conclusion - You’re Safe To Light Soy Wax Candles

In a nutshell, soy wax candles are a much safer option than traditional paraffin candles if you’ve got pets in the house. They burn cleaner, produce fewer toxins, and are generally non-toxic if your pet decides to take a lick. However, it’s still important to choose candles with safe ingredients and follow some basic safety precautions to keep your pets out of harm’s way.

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