Are air fresheners dangerous for pets?

One of the first precautions we take when we decide to add a pet to our lives is to make sure there are no poisons or harmful elements in the house.

Although it may sound exaggerated, according to veterinarian Patrick Mahaney, it is better to include certain flavoring products in the 'red list', otherwise our dog, cat, rabbit or parakeet could be poisoned by some of the artificial elements that these products usually contain.

The specialist assures that the spray you buy for your bathroom, the air freshener you use to eliminate the smell of food, or that air freshener with natural oils that you plug in the hallway could become a nightmare for your pet, and also for you.

The risk is in those organic and volatile compounds that spread into the air once the product is activated, and certain substances in air fresheners and detergents contain at least one ingredient considered toxic that could cause damage ranging from asthma and cancer to problems with the blood, brain, heart, kidneys, skin, respiratory and nervous systems. And this can happen in both pets and humans.

Of course, some will say "there are natural alternatives such as natural oils". Beware, these also have their disadvantages because although they are produced from ingredients such as flowers, berries, roots, seeds and wood, they also dissipate in the air and can be harmful to people and animals. If you decide to scent your home with these products, be sure to keep them out of reach of your pets."

SIGNS OF POISONING

• They can be immediate or within a few days of using a room freshener.-The pet leaves the room as soon as the product is used.

• The pet may cough, sneeze, vomit, suffer from diarrhea and even lose its appetite.

• In addition to air fresheners, the pet can also be poisoned by cleaning products. A recommendation is to prohibit the access of animals to the areas you are cleaning because they could take toxic product in their paws and lick it.

If you think your pet is having a serious reaction, take it immediately to the nearest veterinarian.