In the UK our pets are part of the family, and share every aspect of our homes and lives. So when it’s time to redecorate, it’s natural to be concerned with identifying pet safe paint that won’t affect the health of dogs, cats, and other family pets.
Pet friendly paints do exist, and they mean you won’t need to choose between style and the health of your animals. You can buy paint that’s entirely free of petrochemicals and harsh chemical preservatives.
They’re just as effective as “standard paint” and they’re not only pet friendly, but human friendly too!
What Makes a Paint Pet Safe?
A paint can be considered safe for pets if it contains low or zero Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and does not contain harsh chemicals.
Animals can be more sensitive than humans to chemicals in the home. Both dogs and cats have very sensitive senses of smell, meaning petrochemical based paints can be particularly challenging for them. Their delicate respiratory systems can suffer from chemical exposure.
Dogs may chew painted surfaces, and both dogs and cats might brush against painted surfaces or painting equipment. This can lead to paint ingestion during grooming, which may impact animal health.
Animals are often more sensitive than humans to chemicals in the home. Dogs and cats have powerful noses, spend time close to the floor, and may brush against or even chew painted surfaces. Birds and small animals are even more delicate, with tiny lungs that can be irritated by airborne fumes.
A truly pet safe paint will:
- Contain zero or ultra low VOCs, meaning no harmful fumes linger after decorating.
- Be free from isothiazolinones (MI, MIT, BIT), formaldehyde, and heavy metals sometimes found in conventional paints.
- Use natural binders and pigments instead of petrochemicals and plastics such as acrylic and vinyl.
Ingredients in Natural Pet Safe Paints
When choosing a paint or finish that’s safe for pets, it helps to know what makes natural products different from the conventional tins you’ll find in most DIY stores. Instead of plastics, solvents, and synthetic preservatives, natural paints are made from ingredients that are harmless once dry and far kinder to indoor and outdoor air quality.
- Clay – Paints made from natural clay and mineral binders create a soft, matt, slightly textured finish that feels very different to plastic-based emulsions. They’re highly breathable, odour free, and completely non-toxic.
- Lime – Traditionally used in limewash for centuries, and now available in modern natural paints. Lime paints are naturally antibacterial and help prevent mould growth without relying on chemical fungicides. They’re safe, durable, and perfect for walls in homes with pets.
- Casein – Using milk protein as a natural binder, casein or milk paints create smooth, velvety surfaces without the plastics found in modern emulsions. They’re safe and eco friendly while still giving great coverage.
- Natural wood oils and resins – Instead of petrochemical varnishes or solvent-heavy wood stains, these use plant oils and natural resins to protect and nourish wood.
- Natural fillers and pigments – Chalk, talc, and mineral pigments give colour and coverage without heavy metals or synthetic dyes.
All of these natural paint options share the same benefits: they’re safe once dry, odour free, and designed to replace the chemical load of ordinary paints with breathable, harmless ingredients.
That means you can decorate and protect your home with peace of mind, knowing your home and pets won’t be exposed to toxins for prolonged periods due to the off-gassing process as paint dries.
Choosing Pet Friendly Paint for Different Surfaces
When decorating with pets in mind, think about where they spend time and what they come into contact with most often.
- Walls and ceilings – Natural emulsions are perfect here, giving you odour free paint colour that won’t irritate sensitive noses.
- Woodwork and skirtings – Pets brush against these daily, so a natural eggshell finish is a durable and safe option.
- Furniture and pet beds – If you’re painting furniture always use a natural wood paint that’s certified as toy safe.
- Outdoor kennels, runs, and hutches – Choose a breathable, natural exterior paint that can cope with the weather without leaching chemicals.
Outdoor Pet Safe Paints, Oils and Finishes
Many pets, particularly cats and dogs, spend a lot of time in the garden. Decking, garden furniture, kennels, and runs for small animals will all be points of contact and may be chewed or licked.
That’s why it’s important to choose natural outdoor finishes that won’t cause harm.
Natural paint, oil and varnishes are a safer choice. Options include:
- Outdoor natural paints – breathable, weather-resistant finishes for kennels, hutches, runs, or exterior fencing.
- Natural wood oils – perfect for decking, fencing, and outdoor furniture. Just as effective at helping wood resist water while staying free from harmful chemicals.
- Natural varnishes and stains – add colour or protection to exterior wood without the synthetic binders and solvents found in conventional products.
- Pet safe patio cleaners – ideal for freshening up fencing, decking or stone paving without harsh acids or bleaches that can irritate paws or cause respiratory irritation.
These outdoor products are high quality, and able to withstand rain, sun, and muddy paws while remaining safe for the animals who share your garden.
Pet Safe Paint FAQs
Is paint toxic to dogs and cats?
Most conventional paints contain VOCs and chemicals that can irritate pets’ lungs or make them ill if licked. Natural paints avoid these risks.
Can paint fumes harm birds or small animals?
Yes. Birds and rodents have very sensitive respiratory systems. Conventional paint fumes can be dangerous, but natural paints avoid this risk.
How long after painting can pets go back into the room?
With natural paints, once the paint is dry the room is safe. Still, it’s wise to wait a few hours or overnight so dust has settled.
Is water based paint automatically safe for pets?
Not necessarily. Many water-based paints still contain chemicals. Look for paints that are natural and independently certified as safe.
Read more: Paint allergies & symptoms | Paint for allergy & asthma sufferers | Baby safe paint | Can you get non toxic paint for walls | Fume free paint
Choose Pet Safe Paint for a Healthy Home
Our pets deserve safe, healthy homes just as much as we do. By choosing pet safe paints, you can decorate confidently, knowing your walls, woodwork, and furniture are free from hidden toxins.
Need advice? Contact us for expert help on your next project. Or order a free colour chart to review your colour options.
