As responsible pet owners, we are all very cautious about what we feed our pet, and what we give them which could be harmful to their health. While some dangers are obvious, some are not so obvious, and one of these dangers comes in the form of paint.

Why are paints so dangerous?

Domestic paints can be so dangerous to pets, due to the harsh cocktail of chemicals that they contain. These toxic chemicals are harmful to humans as well as animals, but animals are more susceptible. These hazardous chemicals include heavy metals, solvents and VOC'S (Volatile Organic Compounds). These chemicals emit toxic gases which can have some adverse effect on our pets. The full extent of the harm that these chemicals cause is unknown, but side effects include irritation to eyes, skin, airways, causing pets to become dizzy, dazed, sick and in extreme cases even full body hair loss. Paints aren't the only dangerous decorating products; paint remover, white sprits and varnishes can have the same effect.

While it is a good idea to keep windows and doors open to allow gases to escape, this is not always enough as some fumes can still be released long after the paint has dried. The main way that pets become affected is inhalation, but they could also become ill if they were to ingest the paints or other decorating products.

Pet-Safe Paint

The best thing to do is to use a paint which is pet-safe, and this will stop any potential harm coming to your pets. These pet-safe paints contain fewer or none of these harmful chemicals, making them better for you, the environment and your furry friends. There are some paints on the market that are branded as being pet-safe, but there are other that are pet-safe, but have not been branded in this way. You will be able to identify these paints by looking at the ingredients in the paints. You will want to avoid paints that are solvent-based, and instead look for water-based paints. On top of that, you will want a paint which contains no heavy metals, creosote and has either low or no VOCs. Research all paints and decorating products before using them. This way you can see if other people have used them around pets before, and if there have been any negative effects. An example of this is the Earthborn Eco Paint range available at Wood Finishes Direct, which is not sold as being pet-friendly, but has been used around animals (and insects) without harmful effects.

Painting Tips

In some cases you might have to use a paint which isn't fully pet-safe, but you should take some precautions to help limit the chances of any harm coming to your pets.

1) Keep all decorating products out of reach of pets who might accidentally ingest them.

2) If it is possible ask a neighbour, family member or friend to have pets for the day. This will help limit their exposure to these toxic fumes. If this isn't possible, keep them out of the way for as long as possible, while the paint is wet or drying.

3) Ensure all rooms are well ventilated to help remove these gases. This is for both your own health as well as your pets.

4) If you are painting anything small, like a table or chairs, paint them outside. This way fumes will not be trapped inside your home.

5) Finally, keep an eye on your pets: if they start showing signs of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your vet immediately.

This article was written by Aedan Kiernan, Digital Marketing Executive at Wood Finishes Direct, who are the UK's largest supplier of wood finishes, treatments, paint and accessories.