Household Cleaners That Will Harm Your Pet
Household Cleaners That Will Harm Your Pet.
Household cleaners contain chemicals that can harm your pet, make your pet sick and even pass a way. Here are the most common cleaners you should keep away from your dog, cat or small animal.
Hydrogen Peroxide:
Topical exposure of hydrogen peroxide, such as to the skin or paws, may result in skin irritation and rashes. Three percent hydrogen peroxide may at times be used to induce vomiting in dogs, but should carefully be done under the direction of your veterinarian.
While 3% hydrogen peroxide is often effective in making dogs vomit, it is inadvisable for cats. If consumed by cats, hydrogen peroxide may cause severe bleeding and inflammation in the stomach and esophagus. Though effective in dogs to release ingestion of harmful toxins, 3% hydrogen peroxide can cause inflammation and ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract. Immediately consult with a veterinarian if you think your pet has ingested a harmful chemical.
Isopropyl Alcohol (or rubbing alcohol)
If ingested by pets, isopropyl alcohol can cause vomiting, disorientation, incoordination, and in severe cases, collapse, respiratory depression and seizures. Rubbing alcohol should not be used on a pet’s skin. It is can be used as an antiseptic in a controlled hospital setting, but if used inappropriately (i.e. on open wounds, in high concentrations, in large volumes, etc.) it can cause damage to the skin, delay wound healing, and have negative effects on other body systems.
Bleach
Bleach may have severe effects on dog and cats. Severity of these effects depend on the amount of bleach the pet has been exposed to. It also depends on how they were exposed. Regular strength household bleach can cause skin irritation, eye irritation and swelling and tearing of the eyes. Ingestion of high concentrated bleach can result in esophageal burning, stomach lining deterioration, oral ulceration, severe depression, pawing at the mouth, hypersalivation, vomiting or retching, lethargy, and inappetence.
Ammonia
Ammonia is an ingredient used in some disinfecting wipes or sprays, which can cause corrosive injury to any tissue it contacts. Like other chemicals, it may act as a local or systemic irritant. When aerosolized, and even in low concentrations, it can cause eye swelling, tearing, and burning. At higher concentrations it can cause irritation to the throat and lungs, leading to coughing and airway inflammation.
Phenols
From disinfectant sprays to toilet bowl cleaners, phenols can be found in many common household cleaning products. These products have the potential to be extremely corrosive if they come into contact the pet’s skin or eyes, or if it is swallowed. If inhaled, phenols can cause detrimental injury to the lungs. Be particularly mindful of these chemicals, as they can be rapidly absorbed through the skin causing incoordination, hypersalivation, and seizures.
credit to: BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital,
