Cleaning Products That Are Dangerous To Your Pet!

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center ((APCC) has just published its most recent list of home cleaning products that can be dangerous to your pet.  We have reviewed the list and provided a short synopsis of the findings.  Even those products we think of as being environmentally friendly such as vinegar, can have unsettling effects on your pet.  These findings might surprise you!

Many of these products are brightly packaged and come in small tablet forms which are perfecting for chewing by your dog.  Always be sure your supplies are kept in an area that is not accessible to your pets.  But if you suspect your dog or cat has managed to ingest something, we have provided the Animal Poison Control number for you to contact and suggestions for keeping your pet safe.

Laundry Pods –

While convenient and mess-fress, these pods can cause significant “stomach upset and irritation to the upper airways”, according to the ASPCA website.  Even if your pet vomits after eating one of these pods, inhaling the detergent can lead to pneumonia.  Contact your vet immediately even if your dog is not showing any signs of distress if you think they may have gotten into some.

Bleach – 

Bleach is a good product for disinfecting your pets, toys, bedding and crate. However, if the smell is strong for you, it is too strong for your pet.  Dilute the bleach solution and then wipe the area down with a wet cloth that does not have bleach on it.  That way when the item goes back into your pet’s mouth, the bleach will have dissipated enough as to not cause significant harm.

Carpet Fresheners –

While the website states that these products do “not cause significant harm or injury to pets.”  it is recommended that you rinse your pet’s paws off with soapy water to avoid any skin irritation and alleviate concern should they lick their paws.  Should they inhale some of the powder, they may sneeze or cough, but this is not a concern.