As pet owners, we strive to keep our homes clean and hygienic for both ourselves and our beloved companions. However, the very products we use to achieve a sparkling clean can sometimes pose hidden dangers to our furry family members. When it comes to household cleaners, a common question arises: Is Lysol Safe For Pets? The answer, unfortunately, is often no. Many Lysol products, along with a wide range of other household cleaning agents, contain chemicals that can be harmful, even toxic, to dogs, cats, and other pets. Understanding these risks is crucial for creating a safe environment while maintaining a clean home.
Understanding the Risks: Why Lysol and Cleaning Products Can Be Harmful
Household cleaning products, including many from the Lysol brand, are formulated with powerful chemicals designed to disinfect, degrease, and sanitize. While effective for these purposes, many of these ingredients are not pet-friendly. Common culprits include substances like ammonia, bleach, phenols, and isopropyl alcohol. These chemicals can cause a range of adverse reactions in pets depending on the type of exposure – whether it’s ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. The concentration of these chemicals in a product, the amount of exposure, and the size and species of your pet all play a role in the severity of the reaction. It’s important to recognize that pets, with their smaller size and different metabolisms, are often more susceptible to the harmful effects of these chemicals compared to humans.
Decoding the Danger: Common Toxic Ingredients in Lysol and Other Cleaners
To better understand the potential dangers, let’s break down some common toxic ingredients often found in Lysol products and other household cleaners:
Ammonia
Ammonia, often listed as ammonium hydroxide on labels, is a common ingredient in various cleaning products. Lysol bathroom cleaners and multi-surface cleaners, like Lysol Aerosol Bathroom Cleaner, can contain ammonia. Exposure to ammonia can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, skin, and eyes. Ingestion can lead to drooling, vomiting, and even more serious internal damage.
| Type of cleaner | Example (containing Ammonia) |
|---|---|
| Bathroom cleaner | Lysol Aerosol Bathroom Cleaner |
| Multisurface cleaner | Windex Advanced Glass and Multi-Surface Cleaner |
| Glass and mirror cleaner | Walmart Great Value Original Glass Cleaner |
Bleach and Chlorine
Bleach and chlorine, frequently listed as sodium hypochlorite, are powerful disinfectants found in numerous cleaning products. Lysol Bleach Multi-Purpose Cleaner is a prime example of a Lysol product containing bleach. These chemicals are highly corrosive and can cause severe irritation or burns if ingested or if they come into contact with skin or eyes. Inhalation of fumes can also irritate the respiratory system.
| Type of cleaner | Example (containing Bleach/Chlorine) |
|---|---|
| Multipurpose cleaner | Lysol Bleach Multi-Purpose Cleaner |
| Bathroom cleaner | Scrubbing Bubbles Foaming Bleach Bathroom Cleaner |
| Disinfectant | Comet Disinfecting Cleaner with Bleach |
Phenol
Phenol, which may appear under names like carbolic acid or alkylphenols, is another concerning ingredient. Some Lysol disinfectant products, particularly older formulations, have been known to contain phenols. Phenols are highly toxic to cats and can cause severe liver damage and neurological issues in various pets. While formulations may have changed over time, it’s still crucial to be aware of phenols when considering Lysol products.
| Type of cleaner | Example (containing Phenol) |
|---|---|
| Disinfectant | Lysol (some formulations) |
| Soap | Carbolic soap |
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol, often labeled as rubbing alcohol, is a common ingredient in disinfectants and some cleaning products. While Lysol brand hand sanitizers and disinfecting sprays may contain isopropyl alcohol, it’s also found in other cleaning agents like Windex Electronics Wipes. Ingestion of isopropyl alcohol can lead to vomiting, disorientation, and even respiratory depression in pets.
| Type of cleaner | Example (containing Isopropyl Alcohol) |
|---|---|
| Disinfecting spray | Lysol Disinfecting Spray |
| Electronics cleaner | Windex Electronics Wipes |
Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Cleaning Product Poisoning in Pets
If your pet has been exposed to Lysol or any cleaning product, it’s vital to recognize the signs of potential poisoning. Symptoms can vary depending on the route of exposure:
Symptoms of Ingestion:
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy or weakness
- Disorientation or incoordination
- Seizures
- Coma (in severe cases)
Symptoms of Inhalation:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Watery eyes
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Open-mouth breathing (especially in cats)
- Bluish gums (cyanosis)
Symptoms of Skin Contact:
- Redness and irritation
- Sores or blisters
- Rash
- Chemical burns
If you observe any of these symptoms in your pet after potential exposure to cleaning products, immediate action is crucial.
Immediate Actions: What to Do if Your Pet is Exposed to Lysol or Other Cleaners
Suspecting your pet has been exposed to Lysol or another cleaning product is a medical emergency. Act quickly and follow these steps:
- Identify the product: Determine exactly which cleaning product is involved. If possible, have the packaging or label readily available.
- Assess the exposure: Try to figure out how your pet was exposed (ingestion, inhalation, skin contact) and the approximate amount of exposure.
- Contact professionals immediately:
- Your Veterinarian: Call your veterinarian right away to describe the situation and symptoms. They will advise you on the best course of action, which may include bringing your pet to the clinic.
- Pet Poison Helpline: In the US, you can call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 (a consultation fee may apply).
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: Another valuable resource is the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply).
Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian or poison control expert. Providing prompt and accurate information to veterinary professionals is critical for ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.
Safer Cleaning Choices: Pet-Friendly Alternatives and Practices
The good news is that you can maintain a clean and healthy home without putting your pets at risk. Consider these pet-safe cleaning strategies:
- Pet-Safe Cleaning Products: Opt for cleaning products specifically labeled as “pet-safe” or “non-toxic.” Many brands offer plant-based or natural cleaners that are less likely to harm pets.
- DIY Cleaning Solutions: Simple solutions like vinegar and water or baking soda can be effective for many cleaning tasks and are generally safer for pets in diluted forms. Always research safe dilutions and uses.
- Prevention is Key:
- Secure Storage: Store all cleaning products in locked cabinets or high shelves, completely out of your pet’s reach.
- Never Leave Products Unattended: Do not leave open cleaning products unattended while in use.
- Keep Pets Away During Cleaning: Confine pets to a separate area while you are cleaning and until surfaces are completely dry and the area is well-ventilated.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation by opening windows or using fans when cleaning to minimize inhalation risks.
- Fragrance-Free Options: Consider fragrance-free or odorless products, as strong scents can also be irritating to sensitive pets.
By making informed choices about cleaning products and practicing safe cleaning habits, you can protect your pets from the potential dangers of household cleaners like Lysol and ensure a healthy and happy home for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions: Lysol and Pet Safety
Is Lysol toxic to dogs and cats?
Yes, many Lysol products are toxic to both dogs and cats. Lysol formulations often contain harmful ingredients such as ammonia, bleach, phenols, and isopropyl alcohol, all of which can cause various health issues in pets, ranging from mild irritation to severe poisoning and even death.
Can smelling Lysol make pets sick?
Yes, inhaling the fumes from Lysol and other strong cleaning products can be harmful to pets. Inhalation can irritate their respiratory system, leading to coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, it can cause lung damage.
Are all Lysol products dangerous for pets?
While not every single Lysol product may contain every toxic ingredient, many popular Lysol cleaners do contain substances that are harmful to pets. It’s safest to assume that most Lysol products pose a risk to pets and to take precautions accordingly. Always check the product label for ingredients and err on the side of caution when cleaning around animals. Opting for pet-safe cleaners is the most responsible choice for pet owners.
References
Peterson, Michael E. Small Animal Toxicology. 3rd ed. Elsevier Saunders; 2001.
Pet Poison Helpline. Household Cleaning Products are Your Pet: What You Should Know About.
ASPCA. Poisonous Household Products.
Featured image: iStock/supersizer
WRITTEN BY
Veronica Higgs, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Veronica Higgs is a 2010 graduate from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. She then completed a 1-year rotating…
