If you own a pet dog, then you know that your furry friend spends most of his or her time in your living space. You take utmost care to keep your home safe and clean for your pet, but sometimes, it can feel overwhelming to manage the hygiene and sanitation. One thing that might come to your mind is spraying Lysol on your dog to get rid of germs and odors. But before you do that, you should know whether it is safe or not.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about spraying your dog with Lysol. What are the do’s and don’ts of using this disinfectant on your dog? Should you use it at all? We will cover all these questions one by one. So, keep reading to find out more.
What is Lysol?
Lysol is a brand of disinfectant that is extensively used in households for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces. It contains a mixture of chemicals and alcohol, which helps in killing germs, viruses, and bacteria on surfaces in homes and workplaces. The product is also available in aerosol spray form, which makes it easy to use.
Can Lysol be used on pets?
No, Lysol should not be used on pets. The ingredients that make Lysol an effective disinfectant also make it toxic to pets. Dogs have a natural tendency to lick their fur and paws, and if you spray Lysol on them, it can be harmful if ingested. Lysol can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and in extreme cases, even organ failure.
What should you do instead?
If you want to keep your dog clean, there are several safe ways to do it.
- Use a pet shampoo to bathe your dog regularly
- Use a pet-friendly disinfectant specifically designed for pets
- Wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth after a walk
- Clean their beddings frequently and in addition, you should take steps to properly clean and sterilize your home, especially if your dog has been ill.
Is Lysol safe for your dog’s bed?
While Lysol is effective in killing germs and bacteria, it is not safe to use on your dog’s bed. The chemicals in Lysol are harsh for pets, and they might come in contact with their skin, leading to irritation and rashes. In some cases, it can cause respiratory and allergic reactions in dogs, which can be dangerous.
What to do instead?
If you want to clean your dog’s bed, there are a few things you can do to sanitize it safely.
- Vacuum the bed regularly to remove loose hair and debris.
- Wash the bed with hot water and detergent specifically formulated for pets.
- You can add vinegar to the water to disinfect the bed naturally
- Use a pet-friendly disinfectant spray to freshen and sanitize the bed.
What happens if your dog ingests Lysol accidentally?
If your dog ingests Lysol accidentally, it can cause serious health problems. The symptoms may vary depending on the size and age of your dog and their health condition. However, the following are some common symptoms if your dog ingests Lysol.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Difficulty in breathing
- Seizures and tremors
- Organ failure
What should you do if your dog ingests Lysol?
If you suspect that your dog has ingested Lysol accidentally, you should immediately take them to the vet. Delaying treatment could worsen your dog’s condition and lead to complications. Inform your vet about the quantity of Lysol ingested, and they will take necessary measures to treat your dog.
Can Lysol cause skin irritation to dogs?
Yes, Lysol can cause skin irritation and rashes to dogs. Dogs have a sensitive skin which can be easily affected by harsh chemicals present in Lysol. Contact with the skin can also cause irritation, swelling and even blisters, and in extreme cases, it can lead to allergic reactions.
What should you do if your dog comes into contact with Lysol?
If your dog comes into contact with Lysol, rinse their skin immediately with plenty of water for 15-20 minutes. If symptoms persist, seek veterinary care. Make sure you keep the Lysol away from your dog, especially if they have a habit of chewing on things.
What are the alternatives to Lysol for cleaning your home?
Some safe and effective alternatives to Lysol for cleaning your home are:
- Vinegar solution: You can use a mixture of vinegar and water to sanitize and clean the surfaces.
- Baking soda: An effective natural disinfectant for cleaning your home.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: A very effective disinfectant that is safe for pets.
- Pet-safe disinfectant: It is essential to use a disinfectant specifically designed for pet stains or messes.
- Steam cleaner: Steam cleaning is also a safe and effective way to disinfect your home and eliminate germs and bacteria.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lysol is not safe to use on pets, especially dogs, as it can cause severe health problems if ingested or if it comes into contact with their skin. As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to keep your dog’s hygiene in check, but it should not be at the cost of their health. Therefore, pet owners should stick to pet-safe disinfectants, shampoos and methods to keep their homes clean, sanitized and safe for their furry friends.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
- Is it safe to use Lysol on my dog’s toys?
No, it is not safe to use Lysol on your dog’s toys. It is harmful to your pet and may cause serious health concerns if ingested. - Can I use Lysol on my carpet if my dog has had an accident?
It is not recommended to use Lysol on your carpet as it can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems to your dog. It is better to use a pet-safe cleaning solution to clean the carpet. - Can I use Lysol to get rid of the smell of dog urine?
No, it is not safe to use Lysol to remove the smell of dog urine. Lysol contains harsh chemicals which are toxic to dogs. Instead, use an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed to get rid of the smell of dog urine. - Can Lysol cause respiratory problems in dogs?
Yes, if your dog inhales Lysol, it can cause respiratory problems, including coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. - What should I do if my dog shows symptoms of poisoning?
If your dog shows any symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing, take them to the vet immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to serious health issues and even death in extreme cases.
References
- “LYSOL® Announces The Addition Of A Pet-Friendly Surface Cleaner To Its Product Line”. Businesswire.com, 2019, https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190305005512/en/LYSOL%C2%AE-Announces-Addition-Pet-Friendly-Surface-Cleaner-Product. Accessed 26 July 2021.
- ‘Disinfectant Facts: Questions And Answers – U S Food And Drug Administration Home Page’. Accessdata.Fda.Gov, 2015, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&varApplNo=009280. Accessed 26 July 2021.