What cleaning products should you not use if you have a cat or dog: advice from a veterinarian

So the next time you do a general cleaning, don’t use…

Where it is usually found: in window cleaning fluid, bathroom and kitchen cleaning sprays

“Pets have a much more sensitive respiratory system than humans,” explains Petrina Firth, a dog behavior specialist. “Ammonia can cause irritation to the mucous membranes and lungs, so make sure your pets do not come into contact with products containing this substance.”

Where are they usually found: in degreasers

“Glycol ethers are toxic to pets,” says veterinarian Whitney Miller. “In addition to allergic reactions and skin or eye irritation, they are associated with more serious conditions such as anemia, kidney damage, and developmental and growth problems.”

Where it is usually found: in bleaching and disinfection products

As Dr. Miller explains, chlorine (including that added to swimming pools) can cause respiratory problems if the vapors are exhaled and gastrointestinal problems if a pet licks it off the surface immediately after cleaning. Chlorine is particularly dangerous for cats, who find its smell extremely attractive: it can go so far as to cause the animal to overturn a bottle of chlorine-containing substance and then swallow the drops that fall on the floor.

Where it is usually found: in disinfectant sprays and wipes, in detergents

Phenol, a common ingredient in cleaning products, is particularly toxic to pets, especially cats. An animal can be poisoned if it swallows products containing phenol, or if it comes into contact with the skin or nose. This dangerous substance can build up in the body to toxic levels and cause neurological disease, liver damage, and even death.

Where it is usually found: in soap, dishwashing liquid, washing gels, cheap air fresheners

Formaldehyde irritates animals’ eyes and upper respiratory tract and, if ingested, causes severe erosion of gastrointestinal tissue, Whitney said. Once in contact with the skin, the substance can cause allergic inflammation.

Where are they usually found: in detergents and air fresheners

As Dr. Miller explains, phthalates, which are used to scent cleaning products, can cause kidney and liver problems and even disrupt your pet’s hormones.

Not only are chemicals dangerous for animals, but also some natural products, including essential oils. According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, essential oils that are harmful to cats include:

Toxic oils for dogs:

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