Vet warns about harmless-looking fall décor in most homes that can cost your pet their lives

Expert warns homeowners about picking pet-friendly fall décor, as one item is linked to serious respiratory damage.

PUBLISHED 7 HOURS AGO

(L) Autumn decor items in home on a wooden window, (R) A dog resting. (Representative Cover Image Source: Getty Images | (L) Anastasiia Stiahailo, (R) Olga Pankova)

The fall season is on its way, and homeowners are preparing to decorate their homes to match the vibe. Although fall décor items are a great way to enhance the appeal of homes, a vet advised people to be cautious of a fall staple that can be hazardous to pets. The expert revealed that not only cats and dogs may be affected, but smaller pets like guinea pigs and rodents could also face serious health risks, resulting in hefty medical bills. The warning came ahead of the season, as the item can be immensely toxic to pets and potentially life-threatening, as reported by The Mirror.

Dog scared of a lit candle. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images | Anna Ostanina)

Dr. Suzanne Moyes, a vet expert at Burgess Pet Care, ruled out candles as the most toxic item among typical fall décor. She warned that the decorative item may impair pets’ respiratory systems due to its scent particles, which are toxic and potentially fatal. Not only candles, but oil diffusers and even air fresheners were categorized as toxic for pets. Dr. Moyes explained, “The airborne particles released from perfumed items like these can irritate their respiratory systems, and even natural essential oils can be toxic to small pets.” This is especially damaging for smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs.

Atmospheric candles shape of pumpkin, gray sweater, autumn decor on table.(Representative Image Source: Getty Images | Alexandr Kolesnikov)

Rather than lighting candles to keep indoors smelling fresh, the vet recommended pet owners to focus on “proper ventilation” and regular cleaning. This helps maintain hygiene and a safe environment for the animals living in the home. “As well as being aware of the risks external products can have, a regular and tailored cleaning schedule is vital when it comes to maintaining a healthy pet,” Dr. Moyes added. While candles can be avoided, the expert also highlighted the ingredients in common disinfectants and bleach-based cleaners that are toxic to pets.

Housewife and her dog mopping on the floor of a room during housework. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images |StefaNikolic) — Woman and her dog mopping on the floor of a room during housework. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images |StefaNikolic)

“Look out for ingredients such as ammonia, which is found in glass and floor cleaners,” the vet revealed. The chemical can irritate a pet's respiratory tract and gastrointestinal system if ingested. Similar cleaning products like fabric softeners, air fresheners, cleaning wipes, and pine or cedar-scented products can all be toxic for animals upon contact. Phenol, often found in such highly fragrant cleaning products, may cause liver damage in addition to other health complications. Fragrant products mostly contain phthalates, which impart fragrance to the items. This ingredient can cause kidney and liver damage in pets while disrupting the normal hormonal balance.

A family sitting with their pet. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images | SolStock)

While maintaining a sweet-smelling home is desirable, it should not come at the risk of your pet’s health. Hence, Dr. Moyes advised, “Before buying any cleaning products, it’s important to thoroughly research the ingredients and make sure none could pose a risk to your pet’s health.” If nothing works, homeowners can simply wipe down their house using a solution of natural ingredients that are safe for animals. Vinegar diluted with water, mild dish soap, and hot water can serve as a potential cleaner with no risks to pets.