As spring arrives and many of us begin tackling those deep cleaning projects, it's important to remember that some common cleaning practices can pose serious risks to our beloved pets. At Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists, we understand that your pets are cherished members of your family, and we want to help ensure their safety during your spring cleaning routines.
As emergency veterinarians, we often see cases of pet poisoning during spring cleaning season that could have been prevented with proper precautions.
Many standard household cleaners contain chemicals that can be harmful or even fatal to pets. Products containing bleach, ammonia, and strong disinfectants can cause chemical burns to sensitive paw pads, irritate respiratory systems, and lead to poisoning if ingested.
Safety Tips:
Don't be fooled by labels claiming products are "natural" or "eco-friendly." Many of these cleaners contain essential oils that can be toxic to pets, particularly cats. The FDA warns that tea tree, citrus, pine, and wintergreen oils are especially dangerous and can cause liver damage, neurological issues, and respiratory distress.
Safety Tips:
Spring is also when many homeowners begin treating their lawns and gardens. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides can cause severe digestive issues if pets walk through treated areas and then groom themselves or lick their paws. Our internal medicine specialists frequently treat cases related to toxin exposure that require advanced diagnostic testing.
Safety Tips:
While brightening your home with spring flowers creates a cheerful atmosphere, many common spring plants can be dangerous to pets. Lilies can cause kidney failure in cats, even in small amounts. According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, tulip and daffodil bulbs contain compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart problems in dogs if chewed or ingested.
Safety Tips:
During deep cleaning, small items that may normally be tucked away become accessible and can pose choking or digestive blockage risks. According to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, rubber bands, batteries, small cleaning tools, and debris can be particularly dangerous if swallowed, often requiring surgical intervention to remove obstructions.
Safety Tips:
At Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists, we understand that despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. That's why our emergency team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to provide expert care when your pet needs it most.
If you suspect your pet has come into contact with or ingested something harmful, don't wait to see if symptoms develop. Contact us immediately for guidance and support from our team of board-certified specialists.
Our team of board-certified specialists is committed to providing expert care for your pets in emergency situations. We work closely with your primary care veterinarian to ensure continuity of care and the best possible outcomes for your beloved companion.
Have questions about specific cleaning products or plants? Need guidance on creating a pet-safe home environment? We're here to help. Contact Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists today, and let us partner with you in keeping your pets safe and healthy all year round.
