Butenethiol belongs to the class of chemicals called thiols, once called mercaptans for their ability to "capture" mercury. This particular thiol has a fiercely repulsive odor and is one of the main components of skunk spray. Skunks are in weasel family and produce this compound in two glands near the anus for use in repelling predators. When threatened, skunks lift their tail and can eject a fine spray of thiols at distances up to 3 meters. At high doses (close range) this spray causes eye inflammation, tearing, and nausea; at lower concentrations (even at the parts per million level) the odor is simply repulsive. Skunk spray can be removed from pets or sprayed surfaces by oxidizing the thiols to sulfonic acids. This is achieved by repeatedly washing the animal or object with a fresh mixture of 3% hydrogen peroxide (from drug store), sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and soap. Contrary to popular belief, tomato juice does not neutralize skunk smell. In cases where tomato juice has been used, the apparent reduction in odor is due rather to olfactory fatigue (one gets used to the smell) rather than elimination of the thiols.
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