Are Pet Cosmetics Safe and Regulated?
The pet cosmetics market is growing fast, but EU cosmetic rules do not cover animals. Using human cosmetics on pets can be harmful. Only products formulated specifically for animals, developed with veterinarians and clear safety standards, should be used.
In recent years, the pet cosmetics sector—covering cosmetic products intended for the aesthetic and hygienic care of animals—has experienced significant growth.
An increasing number of pet owners are choosing products for their dogs and cats that are designed not only to support health, but also to enhance wellbeing and external appearance, reflecting the broader trend of pet “humanisation”.
As a result, products such as shampoos, conditioners, cleansing wipes, delicate perfumes, and ear or coat cleaning products have become well-established market segments, with turnover continuing to rise.
Behind this development lies a fundamental regulatory question: which legislation governs pet cosmetics? Can these products be considered in the same way as cosmetics intended for human use and therefore fall under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, or are there specific criteria that must be followed?
This article explores the key aspects of the regulatory and technical framework governing pet cosmetics. It examines the requirements for formulating safe products, the risks associated with the inappropriate use of human cosmetics on animals, and the essential role of the veterinarian in the development of targeted formulations.
The Regulatory Framework: Does Regulation 1223/2009 Apply to Animals?
Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 is the main legislative reference for cosmetic products in the European Union. Its definition of a cosmetic product is very clear:
“Cosmetic product means any substance or mixture intended to be applied to the external surfaces of the human body (epidermis, hair, nails, lips, external genital organs) or to the teeth and mucous membranes of the mouth, for the sole or main purpose of cleaning, perfuming, changing their appearance, protecting them, keeping them in good condition or correcting body odors.”
A key point is immediately evident from this definition: animals do not fall within the scope of Regulation 1223/2009. As a result, products intended for pets are not legally considered “cosmetic” under European legislation.
In the absence of a specific EU regulatory framework, pet cosmetics are generally classified as freely marketed products, often treated as animal hygiene products or, in some cases, as biocides if they contain substances with disinfectant properties.
The rules can vary between countries, creating legislative fragmentation and a regulatory gap that allows for different interpretations.
In some Member States, more specific national regulations are envisaged, but overall, there is still no directive or harmonised regulation covering pet cosmetics in a uniform way.
This makes the adoption of voluntary standards and good manufacturing practices crucial, as well as compliance with general legislation on the safety of products placed on the market, such as Directive 2001/95/EC on general product safety, now incorporated into Regulation 988/2023.
Pet Cosmetics Market Growth
Despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty, the pet cosmetics sector is experiencing a phase of rapid expansion.
According to industry data, the European pet care products market is growing at a strong annual rate, driven primarily by two key trends:
- Humanisation of pets – pets are increasingly considered members of the family, with needs comparable to those of humans.
- Increased purchasing power and greater awareness of animal welfare – consumers are more willing to invest in premium, natural, and safe products.
The result is an increasingly wide range of products, from hypoallergenic shampoos and so-called “pet-friendly” fragrances to complete product lines developed for professional grooming. However, this market dynamism also brings risks: not all products are properly formulated, and the absence of harmonised regulation can lead to unfair practices.
The Risk of Using Human Cosmetics on Animals
A particularly critical issue concerns the common practice among some owners of using cosmetics formulated for humans on animals. This can be potentially dangerous for several reasons:
- Physiological differences – animal skin has a different pH to human skin. For example, the skin pH of dogs is around 6.5–7.5, while human skin is on average more acidic, at about 5.5. Applying a human shampoo to a dog can therefore disrupt the skin barrier and cause irritation.
- Increased sensitivity to certain substances – ingredients commonly used in human cosmetics, such as some fragrances, essential oils, or preservatives, can be toxic or irritating to animals.
- Risk of ingestion – animals often lick themselves after a product is applied, increasing the likelihood of accidental ingestion of unsafe substances.
- Respiratory problems – certain fragrances or aerosols can trigger acute respiratory reactions, particularly in cats.
For these reasons, it is essential for owners to understand that human cosmetics are not safe for animals, and that only products formulated and tested specifically for pets should be used.
Formulation Requirements of Pet Cosmetics
In the absence of harmonised legislation, responsible manufacturers adopt strict criteria when developing pet cosmetics, based on principles of safety, efficacy, and tolerability. The main requirements include:
- Absence or careful selection of fragrances – fragrances can pose a risk to animals. If included, they should be formulated using non-toxic substances and at safe concentrations.
- Exclusion of irritating or toxic ingredients – for example, some essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and mint can be dangerous for dogs and especially cats.
- Delicate formulations that respect animal pH – surfactants must be chosen to ensure effective cleansing without damaging the skin barrier.
- No unnecessary dyes or additives – safety takes priority over the aesthetic appearance of the product.
- Targeted toxicological evaluation – each ingredient must be assessed not only for topical application but also for the risk of ingestion.
Some manufacturers are also moving towards the use of natural and organic ingredients, highlighting to consumers the added value in terms of safety and sustainability. However, natural products still require careful evaluation, as not all natural substances are automatically safe for animals.
The Role of the Veterinarian in the Development of Pet Cosmetics
A key element in ensuring the safety of pet cosmetics is the involvement of veterinarians in the development process.
Thanks to their medical and toxicological expertise, veterinarians can:
- Evaluate the suitability of ingredients for the target animal species.
- Identify potential sensitisation or toxicity risks.
- Advise on formulations that respect the physiological characteristics of the animals.
- Contribute to the definition of usage instructions and label warnings.
In addition, veterinarians serve as an important point of contact for pet owners, raising awareness of the correct use of products and the importance of avoiding human cosmetics for animals.
Labelling and Transparency Towards the Consumer
A key aspect of pet cosmetics is labelling. Although there is no legal obligation comparable to that under Regulation 1223/2009, manufacturers should, for the sake of transparency and ease of understanding by the consumer (understood as the person purchasing the product for their pet), provide clear and comprehensive information, including:
- Complete list of ingredients – ideally following the INCI nomenclature for consistency and clarity.
- Specific warnings – for example, “for external use only” or “keep away from the eyes and mouth of the animal”.
- Detailed instructions for use
- Manufacturer information and batch traceability
Clear labelling not only protects the consumer but also helps build trust in the brand, distinguishing serious manufacturers from those less reputable.
Conclusions on the Pet Cosmetics Market
The pet cosmetics market is a dynamic and fast-growing sector, driven by increasing attention to the welfare of companion animals. However, the absence of harmonised legislation, such as Regulation 1223/2009, presents significant challenges, particularly in terms of safety and consumer protection.
The improper use of human cosmetics on animals can pose serious risks, and only dedicated formulations—developed with the support of veterinarians and according to rigorous scientific criteria—can ensure the safety of pets.
While clearer regulation at the European level is still awaited, the responsibility lies with manufacturers, who must adopt voluntary standards of quality, transparency, and safety.
For consumers, the recommendation is straightforward: use only products specifically formulated for pets, avoiding shortcuts that could compromise the health of their four-legged companions.
If you have any questions about the current regulatory situation, or are concerned about keeping up with potential developments in this sector, contact us. We will be happy to help you ensure that your products remain compliant in all relevant markets.
Key Takeaways on Pet Cosmetics Market, Safety, and Regulation
- The pet cosmetics market is growing rapidly, driven by the humanisation of pets and increased consumer spending on safe, premium products.
- Regulation 1223/2009 does not cover pet cosmetics, creating a regulatory gap at EU level.
- Using human cosmetics on animals can cause skin irritation, toxicity, respiratory issues, and accidental ingestion.
- Safe pet cosmetics must be formulated for animal pH, exclude toxic ingredients, and undergo toxicological evaluation for both topical use and ingestion risk.
- Veterinarians play a crucial role in product development, ingredient evaluation, and advising on safe use for consumers.
- Clear labelling and transparency help build consumer trust, listing ingredients, warnings, usage instructions, and manufacturer details.
- Until harmonised regulation is introduced, responsible manufacturers adopt voluntary quality and safety standards to protect pets and consumers.
Pet Cosmetics FAQs
Are pet cosmetics regulated under EU cosmetic law?
No. Pet cosmetics are not covered by EU Cosmetic Regulation 1223/2009 because it only applies to products intended for humans.
Can human cosmetics be used safely on pets?
No. Human cosmetics can irritate animal skin, be toxic if ingested, or cause respiratory issues, so only products formulated specifically for pets should be used.
What makes a pet cosmetic safe?
Safe products are formulated to respect animal pH, exclude toxic or irritating ingredients, and undergo evaluation for both topical use and ingestion risks.
Why is veterinary involvement important in pet cosmetics?
Veterinarians help evaluate ingredient safety, identify potential risks, advise on formulations that respect animal physiology, and guide proper use instructions.
Do pet cosmetics need clear labelling?
Yes. Even though not legally required like human cosmetics, clear labelling of ingredients, warnings, and instructions is important for consumer safety and trust.
Are natural pet cosmetics always safe?
No. Natural ingredients must be carefully evaluated — not everything natural is automatically safe for animals.
