"sol" cleaners are common but can be deadly!
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Here is some basic info I found quite helpful in my search to keep things safe. We use a lot of Seventh Generation all purpose spray cleaner the company guarantee it is pet safe even on skin contact. Steam and baking soda are also favorites :) For urine we use a biodegradable enzyme product called "Bubba" it last forever and does the trick. Happy safe cleaning all!
* the information here is from our experience and is not to replace manufacturers recommendation or veterinarians recommendation.
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URGENT WARNING: Lysol & Pine-Sol Can Be FATAL to Cats!
URGENT WARNING: Lysol & Pine-Sol Can Be FATAL to Cats!
Anything ending in "sol" contains phenol which can be fatal to cats.
(Some symptoms are vomiting & diarhhea or flu-like behavior.)
In Europe, there is a warning on products that contain phenol. Phenol is also extremely FLAMABLE. Most Animal Shelters have banned Lysol & Pine-Sol.
"Like many active chemicals, disinfectants are not without the potential for harm. At minimum, use of disinfectants at excessively high concentrations can create respiratory irritation for animals and staff, and some chemicals (such as quaternary ammonium and phenol disinfectants, e.g. Pine-sol®) can actually be fatal when applied incorrectly 20-22. Disinfectant toxicity in shelters can cause dramatic, widespread episodes of severe oral ulceration, high fever, respiratory signs and pneumonia. Sometimes these are reported as suspected virulent calicivirus outbreaks but happily are much easier to resolve." UC DAVIS VET SCHOOL http://sheltermedicine.com/shelter-health-portal/information-sheets/sanitation-in-animal-shelters#toxicity
"Cats may inadvertently walk through toxic solutions, which they later ingest when grooming. One household hazard is phenol, a highly toxic compound derived from coal tar, which is sometimes used in a dilute form in disinfectants and antiseptics (in Lysol, for instance)."
http://www.petshealth.com/dr_library/digestdistcats.html
"Household cleansers kill germs, but they can also kill cats. Phenol, a common ingredient in cleaning and construction products, is particularly toxic. Cumulatively, it can cause neurological conditions, liver failure and even death." http://pets.thenest.com/phenol-cats-5429.html
"Disinfectants containing phenols are extremely;toxic to some animals, including cats and reptiles"
http://tinyurl.com/2rprh8 (animalsheltering.org)
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Related: 5 Ways To Go Green With Your Cat
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1. Seventh Generation Multi-Surface Disinfectant
Seventh Generation is one of the most well-known companies that have pioneered the green cleaning movement. From laundry detergent and dish soap to disinfecting sprays like the multi-surface cleaner, there are a host of products to choose from that will effectively kill bacteria so you can enjoy a spotless and pure home. The multi-surface cleaner contains essential oils that remove germs naturally so that you can clean up after your cat’s accidents without worrying about any harmful residues or fumes that would otherwise be left behind by conventional cleaners.
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2. Earthworm Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
For pet messes left behind on your carpets, rugs, and upholstery, you can try Earthworm’s product, which uses natural enzymes to penetrate the fabric and break down organic material. The product does not cause any strong odors and it is biodegradable, making it safe for the environment and your cats.
Related: What Is The Best Cat Litter For Your Kitty?
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3. Eco-Care Stain and Odor Remover
Eco-Care Stain and Odor Remover is yet another product that you can use to clean up kitty accidents. The great thing about this product is the fact that it contains natural, renewable, and sustainable ingredients that are biodegradable and safe for the entire family, including your four-legged companions. It also removes odors and stains effectively, which means your floors will not only look clean, they will also smell clean, and your cats will not be tempted to eliminate outside the litter box in the same spot again.
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Even though bleach is a powerful cleaning agent, it is quite toxic, and its harsh fumes can be detrimental to your pet’s health. Use non-chlorine bleach in the laundry in place of conventional bleach to disinfect and deodorize your pet’s bedding or any other soiled materials. The bonus is that it’s completely color-safe too.
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The Shark Steam Pocket Mop is a handy tool for cleaning your floors because it will effectively disinfect surfaces without the need for harsh chemical cleaners. Instead, it uses steam from water to kill germs and ensure your floors will be spotless and safe for your pets. Special accessories even allow you to take your steam mop onto carpets so that you can deodorize and disinfect them as well, completely naturally.
When it comes to choosing non-toxic, all natural, eco-friendly cleaning products for your home, you may have to test out different brands to determine which ones fit your needs best. Rest assured, though, that there is a pet-friendly alternative to every cleaning product in your home, from your glass cleaner to your laundry detergent and everything in between.