Is it safe to use shower steamers on pets?

What Is a Shower Steamer

A shower steamer is essentially like your bath bomb, but for your shower. They are tablets that fizz as water or steam touch them, then release an incredible scent depending on what oils are blended into the shower steamer. You can find them in any size, color, and aroma.

Besides the inviting scent they provide, shower steamers are also soothing and can help with recovery. Many people have used them to reduce stress and improve rest and relaxation or provide a quick jolt of energy. These aromatherapy benefits are because of the Essential Oils used in the shower steamer.

Benefits of Using Shower Steamer

Aromatherapy on the Go

It contains essential oils that can help alleviate stress and anxiety, and create a calming atmosphere, perfect for starting or ending your day.

More Practical

You don’t need a bathtub to experience wonderful aromatherapy, and cleaning the tub after use is unnecessary.

Strong Scent

They have a higher aroma content, creating a stronger, longer-lasting aromatherapy that will make your shower more wonderful.

Is it safe to use shower steamers on pets?

When eyeing those fragrant, fizzy shower steamers, it's tempting to think they'd be enjoyable for pets too. But before exposing furry friends to them, it's worth considering if it's a good idea.

The Lowdown on Aromatic Oils in Shower Steamers

Shower steamers transform mundane showers into spa-like aromatherapy. Packed with essential oils that release into steam, they create a scented haven. But for pets, these oils may be more overwhelming than soothing. Their noses are much stronger, so what smells good to us can be too potent for them.

Some essential oils, though natural, aren't pet-friendly. In fact, some like eucalyptus, tea tree, and peppermint can cause issues ranging from respiratory distress to liver damage in animals.

The Impact of Inhalation on Pets

Imagine your pet lounging while you use a steamer. The room fills with relaxing lavender or citrus scented steam. Nice for you, but what about your pet? Pets inhale these oils just by being nearby, and their bodies respond differently.

Pets, especially birds and small animals, have delicate respiratory tracts. Inhaling scented particles can lead to coughing, wheezing, or worse issues. Cats are at particular risk - they lack liver enzymes to break down compounds, causing toxic buildup.

Skin Contact Concerns for Pets and Shower Steamers

It's not just inhalation - there's also steamer residue risks. Pets may paw at or lick dissolving steamers or leftover residue. That direct contact or ingestion can lead to irritation or more severe internal problems.

Some oils can chemically burn skin or cause irritation. Even small ingested amounts may lead to gastrointestinal upset or worse. Imagine if your dog licked residue and ended up at the vet from a stomach ache.

Alternatives for a Pet-Safe Aromatic Experience

If steamers are too risky, there are safer aromatic options without worrying about pets. Try soy candles with pet-friendly scents or diluted diffuser fragrances placed out of reach.

Look for pet-safe products designed specifically with animal concerns in mind. Some companies create lines without risky ingredients that still provide lovely scents. It's about making informed choices.