Are Humidifiers Safe for Cats? Essential Risk and Safety Information

Humidifiers are a popular way of maintaining a pleasant moisture level in your environment. But are they safe for cats?

When I first became a cat owner years ago, I was startled by just how many things are toxic to cats. Raisins, onions, lilies, chocolate—the list seems endless. Now when I buy any product or produce, my first question is, “What about my cat?”.

So, are humidifiers safe for cats? Well, like many things, it’s not a simple yes or no answer. So, let’s get into the weeds and find out if your particular humidifier is safe for your particular cat. 

Are There Any Benefits of Humidifiers for Cats?

Cats, like every creature, have an ideal level of humidity in which they thrive, and this will vary depending on the ambient temperature. By adjusting both temperature and humidity in your home, you can find the ideal feline environment. Remember, you should always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your cat’s environment if they have pre-existing health conditions. 

• Skin and Coat Health 
  Some cats can suffer from dry skin or problems with their coat. This is especially common if you live in a dry climate with low humidity. It can also be a problem in winter when indoor heating can reduce the humidity in your house. Using a humidifier to bring the humidity back up to normal levels can help your cat maintain a healthy coat and prevent their skin from becoming irritated. 
• Reducing Hairballs 
  Dry air increases static electricity, which can increase hairballs as it can cause your cat to overgroom due to the sensation of their fur being statically charged. This is particularly prevalent in long-haired breeds. 
• Comfort and Well-being 
  A cat’s optimal humidity is 30–50%. If you want your cat to have the most comfortable environment (which will also help them feel more relaxed), then you want to aim for a humidity level of around 40%. 
• Helping with Dehydration 
  As many cat owners know, it can be difficult to get cats to drink water. One of my cats will only drink water if it’s running, while another one of mine will refuse to drink out of their water bowl but will start drinking out of my water cup when I’m not looking. Having higher humidity in their environment won’t work as a substitute for drinking water, but it can lessen the chances of them being dehydrated. 

Are Humidifiers Bad for Cats?

Some cat owners worry about humidifiers and the risks they might pose, but as you’ve seen from the examples I’ve given above, there can actually be a lot of benefits to your cat’s health from having a humidifier. 

There are actually quite a lot of common misconceptions about the risks of humidifiers, such as… 

Respiratory Issues

Lots of people think that humidifiers can cause respiratory issues in cats. This is not the case. Excessive humidity can cause mould and mildew, which are bad for both cats’ and humans’ respiration, but so long as you do not see mould forming in your house, there is no risk. However, mould can form inside the humidifier, so it is important to clean it regularly.

Over-humidification

Excessive humidity can cause discomfort for both cats and humans. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use a humidifier, but it does mean that you should monitor humidity levels in your home. A digital barometer can help you keep track of this. Remember that cats’ optimal humidity is between 30 and 50%, so avoid going above or below this level.

Safety Concerns 

I keep my humidifier on a shelf, which my cats avoid (because it also has a cactus on it), and it has an automatic shut-off feature after it has been on for an hour. You can also use a “cool-mist” humidifier, which eliminates the risk of burns from steam. 

Safety Tips for using a humidifier with a Cat

While humidifiers can be beneficial, there are some guidelines you should follow to make sure you are getting the maximum benefit and removing risk for your cat’s environment. 

• Placement 
  Ideally, the humidifier should be in a place that is not easily accessible by your cat. This will prevent your cat from tampering with or knocking over the humidifier. A high shelf is best, and as I mentioned earlier, placing a catus near it can help to deter your cat. 
• Cleaning 
  Regularly clean your humidifier to prevent mould from building up. If you have a model with a swappable filter, you should order several replacement filters and swap them regularly. This will ensure that you are not inadvertently spreading spores through your home. 
• Humidity Levels 
  Always target 30–50% humidity, as this will be the most comfortable environment for your cat. 
• Humidifier Type 
  Some humidifiers are specifically sold as being “pet-safe.” This normally means that they use cool-mist rather than steam. They are slightly more expensive than regular humidifiers but definitely worth it for the peace of mind if you’re a fretful cat owner (like me!). You should also avoid using scents or essential oils in your humidifier, as these can irritate your cats’ skin or eyes. 

Final Thoughts: Are Humidifiers Safe for Cats?

Hopefully, you can now see that not only are humidifiers safe for cats, but they can even have some health benefits for your feline friend. However, you will also see that there are some extra steps you need to take to make sure you are removing any risks associated with them. Most steps you need to take to ensure your cat’s safety (monitoring humidity, using a cool mist humidifier, cleaning and changing the humidifier’s filter regularly) will also have benefits for you as a human.

FAQs

1. Are humidifiers safe for cats?
Yes, humidifiers are generally safe for cats as long as you use them correctly. Avoid using humidifiers that emit hot steam and place them out of your cat’s reach to prevent burns or accidental spills. It’s recommended to use cool-mist humidifiers for added safety.

2. Can humidifiers improve my cat’s health?
Yes, maintaining an optimal humidity level (30-50%) can improve your cat’s skin and coat health, reduce hairballs, and contribute to overall comfort and hydration, especially in dry climates or during winter months.

3. Can humidifiers cause respiratory issues in cats?
Humidifiers themselves don’t cause respiratory issues. However, if they are not cleaned regularly, mould or bacteria can form inside the device, which can lead to respiratory problems. Ensure your humidifier is cleaned and maintained properly to avoid these risks.

4. What type of humidifier is best for cats?
Cool-mist humidifiers are the best choice as they reduce the risk of burns. There are also pet-specific humidifiers that are designed to be safer for pets. Always avoid using essential oils or scents in the humidifier, as these can be harmful to cats.

5. Where should I place the humidifier?
Place the humidifier in an area that is not easily accessible by your cat, such as a high shelf. This prevents your cat from knocking it over or tampering with it. Using additional deterrents like cacti or other cat-repellent items around the humidifier can further help.

6. How often should I clean my humidifier?
It’s recommended to clean your humidifier weekly to prevent mould or bacteria from forming inside. If your model has a filter, consider replacing it regularly according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

7. What humidity level is best for cats?
Cats thrive in a humidity range of 30–50%. Use a digital hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in your home and adjust your humidifier settings to maintain this range.

8. Are essential oils in humidifiers safe for cats?
No, essential oils can be harmful to cats when inhaled, ingested, or if they come into contact with their skin. Avoid using any essential oils or scented products in your humidifier if you have cats at home.