Most of us animal lovers have heard about the
harmful side effects that certain chemical products can cause our pets. But
what about cleaning agents that kill bacteria and germs that someone with
animals is usually quick to use to clean their home and pet areas? Well you may
end up killing more than just some yucky germs!
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, exposure
to coal-tar derivatives (one being phenols as found in Lysol, Pinesol and other
‘sol’ cleaners) can cause liver damage, kidney damage, anemia and death, among
other things. You may be thinking ‘Well my pet isn’t going to lick or eat the
cleaners!’ Guess what – they don’t need to! These dangerous chemicals can be
absorbed through the skin. You should especially avoid using these products if
you care for felines as they are more susceptible to the negative side effects.
This is what AnimalShelting.com (The Humane
Society of the Unites States) has to say:
"Steer Clear of Phenols
Disinfectants containing phenols are
extremely toxic to some animals, including cats and reptiles. First isolated
from coal tar in the 1800s, phenols are now manufactured synthetically and are
included in many products, including some Lysol disinfectants. Colorless to
white when pure, phenol has a strong, sweet odor. It is corrosive and requires
extra precautions when handling. To ensure the disinfectants you’re considering
purchasing don’t contain phenols, check with manufacturers and avoid products
that list any of the following ingredients, which are synonyms for “phenol,”
according to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration: carbolic acid;
monohydroxybenzene; hydroxybenzene; benzenol; phenylic acid; phenyl hydroxide;
benzophenol; phenyl hydrate; phenylic alcohol; monophenol;phenic acid; and
oxybenzene. To learn more about the hazards of phenol, visit the Osha website: https://www.osha.gov/dts/chemicalsampling/data/CH_261100.html "
So the verdict is definitely in! Read ALL labels
very carefully when choosing a cleaning product for your home and any area that
animals may come in contact with. These days, there are many safe and natural cleaning
products that are on the market and widely available. Using non-chemical
cleaners will give you peace of mind that the only thing that will be harmed is
the dirt and grime you are intentionally trying to remove – not your four
legged family member.
Happy Cleaning!
Michelle Brockman for
Jonah’s Placewww.JonahsPlace.org
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