Why is scented bedding unsafe?

[bella33]

I have never used scented bedding before because others have said it's unsafe but I am unsure why it is? There are scented beddings like Kaytee lavender on the market but I don't really see why it's bad to use? Online it says that hamsters have sensitive noses, but how is this different from other scents they smell in their surroundings and your home?

[Kikya]

I have never used scented bedding before because others have said it's unsafe but I am unsure why it is? There are scented beddings like Kaytee lavender on the market but I don't really see why it's bad to use? Online it says that hamsters have sensitive noses, but how is this different from other scents they smell in their surroundings and your home?

Fragrances/Perfumes have many issues for humans and animals.
-They are endocrine disruptors, which means they mimic the body's natural hormones and disrupt the body's natural production of hormones. Phthalates in particular have been found to interfere with both thyroid and androgen receptors, along with being suspected of causing several types of cancer and birth defects.
-Sometimes touching something with added fragrance can cause skin irritation or dermatitis. It's worse when it gets inhaled because it bypasses the body's natural barriers to keep the bad stuff out. I remember reading about some hamster owners using scented bedding whose hamsters noses were red and irritated and had some drops of blood. It was unknown if the blood was from the fragrances themselves or if the hamster was scratching their noses because of the irritants.
-If they pouch the scented bedding, they can accidentally ingest the fragrances. Some of the fragrances/scents are very damaging when they get in the body, because the body has no way to remove them so over time they accumulate inside, kind of like heavy metals. Depending on the types used they are carcinogenic and have been shown to have a higher rate of tumors and growths in lab animals when exposed.

I personally don't use things like fragrance to cover up smells or scented cleaners for myself, my family and my animals. I don't use scented candles for the same reason.

Long story short, scented beddings are more for the owner to try to cover up bad smells then for the health and enjoyment of the animal. If your cage smells bad, just clean it.

Kikya's .02

[ForgetfulBreeze]

I have never used scented bedding before because others have said it's unsafe but I am unsure why it is? There are scented beddings like Kaytee lavender on the market but I don't really see why it's bad to use? Online it says that hamsters have sensitive noses, but how is this different from other scents they smell in their surroundings and your home?

Kikya said it perfectly.

If you can smell it & it covers up the "stink", then it's too strong for your hamster.

Imagine a very strong scent being constantly in front of your face and unable to escape it. It can cause uri's among other illnesses.

That's why scented candles, perfumes, wax warmers, etc are not reccomended.