HouseholdCaution
Joss sticks and incense
Also known as: temple incense, incense ash, sandalwood sticks
How dangerous is it?
DogMild
CatMild
Monitor at home
Watch your pet closely for the next 24 hours. If vomiting, weakness or unusual behaviour appears, call us on +853 6677 6611.
Signs to watch for
- Coughing or sneezing from smoke
- Watery eyes
- Vomiting if sticks or ash were eaten
What to do
Ventilate the room and move your pet to fresh air. Call us if breathing seems laboured or a large amount of ash or sticks was eaten.
Macau note
Home altars burn incense daily in many Macau households. Position burners high and ventilate; asthmatic cats suffer most from the smoke.
This guide is for general information only and does not replace a veterinary examination. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.