Whether you own a droopy-eared hound dog or a whiskered ragdoll, you probably go to great lengths to ensure your pet’s health and happiness. But have you considered the impact household cleaning products have on your pet?
Unfortunately, traditional cleaning products can contain harsh chemicals that may pose a risk to animals. That’s why at Green Home Cleaning, an Asheville cleaning service, we use cleaning solutions made from natural and organic ingredients.
In honor of National Pet Month, we are delving deeper into this topic, offering insight into why you should skip the noxious sprays and solvents for your dog or cat’s sake.
Are Cleaning Products Safe for Pets?
Maybe Fido had an accident on the living room rug. Or, Garfield regurgitated his breakfast. Your first instinct is probably to grab a store-bought cleaning product. But is it safe for your pet?
It depends. Sadly, most cleaning products contain chemicals that may be dangerous to animals. These chemicals include:
Ammonia
Found in many glass and window cleaners, ammonia can irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled by pets. Cats are particularly sensitive to ammonia, and exposure can lead to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant commonly used in many cleaning products, including multipurpose cleaners and bathroom cleaners. Ingesting bleach can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation in pets. Additionally, inhalation of bleach fumes can irritate the respiratory system and may even lead to more severe complications.
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals commonly found in fragranced household products such as air fresheners, fabric softeners, and some cleaning solutions. These chemicals have been linked to various health issues in pets, including hormonal imbalances and reproductive problems.
Phenols
Phenols are often found in disinfectants and antibacterial cleaners. Exposure to phenols can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract in pets. Ingestion of phenol-containing products can lead to gastrointestinal upset, difficulty breathing, and even organ damage.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a preservative and disinfectant found in some household cleaning products, including certain floor cleaners and furniture polishes. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat in pets, and ingestion can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Chlorine
Chlorine is a strong disinfectant commonly found in bleach-based cleaners and toilet bowl cleaners. Pets can suffer from irritation and burns if they come into contact with chlorine-containing products, and inhalation of chlorine fumes can irritate the respiratory system.
Petroleum-Based Solvents
Some household cleaners, such as carpet cleaners and degreasers, contain petroleum-based solvents that can be toxic to pets if ingested or absorbed through the skin. These solvents can cause symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal upset to neurological issues, depending on the level of exposure.
How Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Benefit Pets
If you want to create a safe, supportive environment for your pawed partner, you should choose an eco-friendly cleaning product or an Asheville cleaning service that prioritizes non-toxic cleaning solutions. Here’s why:
Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Eco-friendly cleaners are formulated with natural, non-toxic ingredients, which significantly reduces the risk of pets being exposed to harmful chemicals. Pets are less likely to ingest or inhale toxins from surfaces cleaned with eco-friendly products, leading to a safer living environment.
Minimized Risk of Allergic Reactions
Many conventional cleaning products contain synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions in pets. Eco-friendly cleaners, on the other hand, are often free from these irritants, making them gentler on sensitive pet skin and reducing the likelihood of skin irritation, itching, or other allergic responses.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Traditional cleaners often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can off-gas into the air, leading to indoor air pollution. Pets, especially those with respiratory conditions like asthma, can be particularly sensitive to poor indoor air quality. Eco-friendly cleaners typically produce fewer VOCs, contributing to a healthier indoor environment for pets to breathe.
Safer Surfaces
Eco-friendly cleaners are less likely to leave behind harmful residues on surfaces, such as floors, countertops, and furniture. Pets, who frequently come into contact with these surfaces through walking, lying down, or grooming, are less likely to ingest or absorb residual chemicals, reducing the risk of toxicity or adverse health effects.
Gentler on Paw Pads and Skin
Some conventional cleaning products, particularly floor cleaners and disinfectants, can leave behind residues that may irritate pet paw pads or cause discomfort if pets come into direct contact with treated surfaces. Eco-friendly cleaners are typically formulated to be gentler on surfaces and skin, reducing the risk of irritation or abrasions for pets.
Care For Your Critter by Hiring Green Home Cleaning
At Green Home Cleaning in Asheville, N.C., we want to help you provide the best care for your curly-haired poodle and fluffy-haired Persian. That’s why we are committed to using our very own non-toxic cleaning products. Crafted from gentle, natural ingredients, these specialized solutions tackle dirt and grime without compromising the health and well-being of your beloved pets.
Ready to create a safe space for your pet? Start your cleaning services today by completing our New Client Form.