Green Cleaning Products That Are Safe for Pets
We all want what's best for our pets, which means keeping them away from any potential dangers. That’s why it’s so important to do your homework in determining which products, such as household cleaners, best suit the needs—and safety—of your family.
Toxins in Cleaning Products vs Green Cleaning Products That Are Safe for Pets
Many cleaning supplies and household products can irritate the eyes and throat and can cause headaches and other problems, including cancer. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, household products are among the top ten most common causes of acute toxicosis in pets. These household chemicals include cleaning products, laundry detergent, and paint.
Any material that’s considered toxic for your family should also be considered a risk for your companion animals. Birds and reptiles are particularly sensitive to aerosolized toxins and can often serve as sentinels for environmental toxins. You should take the same precautions to protect your pets from chemicals that you would for your children.
There is no such thing as a product without chemicals, so a label advertising "natural" or "green" does not automatically equal a healthier or safer product. For example, pyrethrin is a natural flea product that is non-toxic to dogs, slightly toxic in cats, and extremely toxic to fish. If there is a good chance that any pet or human could ingest or inhale a cleaning product, it's best to find an alternative product.
Not All Labels Mean Safe for Pets
Keep in mind that green, or eco-friendly, cleaning products are not all the same. There are countless meanings and uses of the word “green,” and some products labeled this way may still contain toxins for pets. Finding out which chemicals are being used, and if they are safe for use around pets, is the best way to keep your family safe in the home.
Nontoxic Cleaning Products
Many pet families choose green cleaning products that are safe for pets and the environment. There are plenty of cleaners on the market today that are highly rated, eco-friendly, and safe for you and your pets. When using any chemicals, a residue is left behind. Keep in mind, pets use their mouths to clean themselves, which increases the potential to ingest a potentially harmful substance that comes in contact with their fur or paws.
Using only non-toxic, pet-safe green cleaning products is not only pet-friendly but also environmentally and home-friendly. When a pet mess occurs in outdoor spaces, consider a cleaner that uses naturally derived microorganisms to neutralize and eliminate pet waste odors. This product is highly rated for grass, synthetic turf, decks, and patios.
Plant-Based Cleaners
Non-toxic plant-based products clean your home without the unpleasant and potentially harmful residue that can be found in conventional cleaners. Plant-based cleaning products are made with naturally derived, safe, and biodegradable ingredients, often using sustainable manufacturing practices. These products work great on almost any surface and are made without artificial fragrances or colors.
Enzyme Cleaners
From everything including urine, vomit, feces, blood, grass, and dirt, non-toxic enzyme cleaners remain top-rated pet stain and odor removers. Enzymes are biological compounds that speed up a chemical reaction. When used in cleaners, they break down biological substances such as urine and feces, making them perfect for pet messes. Enzymatic cleaners are non-toxic and biodegradable, making them safe to use in any room of your home.
Symptoms of Toxicity in Pets
Acute toxicosis secondary to cleaning products is relatively uncommon in pets. However, pets are much lower to the ground, which means they may have a higher exposure to chemicals and fumes. Pets with a pre-existing respiratory condition may be even more sensitive. Regardless of pre-existing conditions, make sure to store chemicals and cleaners in places where even the most curious pet can’t get into them. All cleaning products should be unreachable by pets and children.
Signs of acute or chronic exposure to environmental toxins may include clear ocular or nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, itching, skin irritation, and diarrhea. Be sure to make your veterinary professional aware of any potential toxins you may have used in your home prior to your companion animal developing any of these critical changes.
Q&A Section
Q: How can I identify pet-safe cleaning products?A: Look for cleaning products that are labeled non-toxic and biodegradable. Research the ingredients to ensure they do not pose a risk to your pets.
Q: Are natural products always safe for pets?A: No, not all natural products are safe for pets. Always check the ingredients and ensure they are non-toxic to pets.
Q: What should I do if my pet shows signs of toxicity?A: If your pet shows signs of toxicity, contact your veterinarian immediately and provide details about the cleaning products used in your home.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use human cleaning products for pet messes?A: It's best to use cleaning products specifically formulated for pets to avoid any harmful chemicals that could affect your pet's health.
Q: Are enzyme cleaners effective for pet messes?A: Yes, enzyme cleaners are very effective for breaking down biological substances and removing pet stains and odors.
Q: How can I ensure my cleaning routine is pet-safe?A: Use non-toxic, pet-safe cleaning products, keep your home well-ventilated, and store all cleaning supplies out of reach of pets.
Real-World Example
Keeping Luna Safe: A Case Study Luna, a curious cat, loves exploring every corner of her home. Her owner switched to pet-safe, non-toxic cleaning products to ensure Luna’s safety. By using plant-based cleaners and enzyme cleaners, Luna’s owner eliminated the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals. This simple change not only protected Luna but also created a healthier home environment for the entire family.
Choosing the right cleaning products ensures your pet’s safety and well-being. For more tips and product recommendations, visit K9Reproduction.com.
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