When spring weather rolls around, it's nice to throw open the windows and start scrubbing, dusting, and whatever else. Before you do so, though, make sure you're not using cleaning agents or products that are toxic to your pets. There are pet-unfriendly chemicals that can cause anything from skin irritation all the way up to poisoning. In the list below, you'll find many common household cleaners and products that can cause your pet harm, and more information on how to do spring cleaning safely with your pets around.

Chemical: Ammonia

This chemical can be found in most window and stove cleaning solutions. It can irritate your dogs nose and throat if inhaled, as well as causing internal damage if ingested.

Alternative: Use a natural multi-surface cleaner such as Puracy that's safe to use around pets and children. The best part is it cleans more than just glass or stoves, so you get more bang for your buck! 

Product: Ant Traps

These sticky papers can do more than just trap ants, they also can attract your dog! With sweet smelling bait added to entice the bugs, your pup's nose might sniff it out as well. Although these traps might not carry large amounts of poison, they can irritate your dog's lining and cause adverse effects. 

Alternative: Choose to purchase ant traps with the child protection tops that house the chemicals inside the tiny boxes. This will help reduce the chances of your snuffly-nosed dogs attempting to lick the trap. If your pet does decide to eat one, box and all, the Pet Poison Helpline has instructions about what to do. 

Chemical: Chlorine 

Although you may not realize it, this chemical can be found in more than just pools. It's also a common ingredient in toilet bowl cleaners, which is at perfect height for a doggy drink of water. Without a closed lid and close supervision this chemical can be ingested by your pet. 

Alternative: Make your own nontoxic toilet bowl cleaner by following this Hunker recipe; mixing 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar. Pour this into the toilet bowl, and voila! Clean toilets, and and happy healthy pet.

Product: Cocoa Mulch 

Did you know that cocoa mulch is made out of the shells of cocoa beans? This mulch has a fragrant, chocolatey smell, and looks great in gardens- but can be bad for your dog. Just like chocolate (which comes from cocoa beans) this mulch contains caffeine and theobromine, which are toxic to dogs.

Alternative: Go for one of the other multitude of mulch options. As tempting as that smell may be, it's not worth your dog's tummy upset and a potential vet bill.

Product: Essential Oils

These natural oils might smell amazing and make great household cleaners, but some of them aren't great for pets. According to Michelson Found Animals, some commonly used ones that can be dangerous for pets are: Tea Tree, Cinnamon, Peppermint, and a few others.

Alternative: Since there are so many oils out there, it's important to research all oils before using them in your home. Always consult your vet if you're still concerned about any certain essential oils. 

Always remember to check all products for pet safety before using them in your home. If you ever have any concerns or questions about your pet or products ask your vet for advice. 

(Always check with your veterinarian before trying anything new. FurHaven is not responsible or liable for any harm that comes to you or your pet from activities.)