How chemical cleaners can cause pet cancer, illness

When it comes to cleaning up around the house, you likely have a variety of products lining the shelves to help you do just that.

But some of those products may contain harmful chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, glycol ether, ammonia, and formaldehyde, which can put your furry friends at risk for developing cancer.

How? Pets can absorb residues from cleaning products through their paws when surfaces are still wet, or accidentally ingest them by chewing on product containers. Additionally, while grooming themselves, pets can spread toxic materials on their skin, coat, mouths, nose and eyes. That exposure to those chemicals can lead to anemia, kidney damage, liver damage, and cancer.

And unfortunately almost all cleaning products, even all-natural ones, contain chemicals that may be harmful to pets.

However, most cleaning agents can be used safely in homes, as long as label recommendations are followed, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Looking for a pet-friendly alternative to keep your home tidy? ASPCA recommends a solution of vinegar and water.

When it comes to cleaning up outdoors, pet owners should also be vigilant as fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides can be very toxic to pets when ingested or exposed. To that end,

ASPCA said owners should not let pets out when lawn treatments are being done, make sure any preparation is completely dry before the pets go outside, store fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides in out-of-the-way places, and follow label instructions carefully.

Still have concerns about which cleaning products will work best in your pet-friendly home? Talk to your veterinarian.

At All Creatures Great And Small, the dedicated staff is committed to giving your pet the best medical care. The facility offers convenient drop-off service as well as the latest modern equipment to assist in properly diagnosing a problem.

All Creatures Great & Small : 1225 Warren Avenue : Downers Grove, IL 60515 : 630.852.0910 : https://www.downersgrovevet.com/