Pet Poison Q & A: Discussing Disinfectants
I work in a small, no-kill shelter and we seem to use a lot of bleach for cleaning cat cages. Is bleach safe to use around cats?
―Erin O.
Good question, Erin. Like virtually any chemical, natural or man-made, bleach can be potentially harmful if used inappropriately, or if an exposure to a large enough concentration occurs. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions for use in order to avoid a potentially harmful exposure.
The bottom line is this―cleaning cages with a properly diluted bleach solution, followed by a thorough rinsing and airing out, would not be expected to cause harm to the cats. However, if you prefer to use an alternative without the potential for harsh fumes, you may wish to talk to your shelter's veterinary contacts. They should be able to recommend a disinfectant that will give off less fumes, contain the appropriate germicidal properties and will be safe to use in the cats' environment.
More new questions this week:
- Are cyclamen plants poisonous to cats?
- Are shamrocks toxic to pets?
―Erin O.
Good question, Erin. Like virtually any chemical, natural or man-made, bleach can be potentially harmful if used inappropriately, or if an exposure to a large enough concentration occurs. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions for use in order to avoid a potentially harmful exposure.
The bottom line is this―cleaning cages with a properly diluted bleach solution, followed by a thorough rinsing and airing out, would not be expected to cause harm to the cats. However, if you prefer to use an alternative without the potential for harsh fumes, you may wish to talk to your shelter's veterinary contacts. They should be able to recommend a disinfectant that will give off less fumes, contain the appropriate germicidal properties and will be safe to use in the cats' environment.
More new questions this week:
- Are cyclamen plants poisonous to cats?
- Are shamrocks toxic to pets?
posted by ASPCA at 9:54 AM PERMALINK
1 Comments:
Use the same cleaners as usual BUT never allow un-diluted cleaners to "linger" on surfaces especially with your kitty's running around!
I put my kitty's in a bedroom and close the door on them. As mad as they get not being able to investigate what I am doing I will suffer a "kittytude" ANY day rather than get my baby's sick!
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