It’s a question that’s been asked repeatedly by concerned pet owners – is laundry detergent toxic to cats? The short answer is yes it can be.
The longer answer is a bit more nuanced as there are a few different factors that need to be taken into account before making a decision.
The Risk of Ingestion
One of the primary concerns when it comes to laundry detergent and cats is the risk of ingestion.
Cats are notoriously curious creatures and they can easily get into laundry detergent when it’s left in an accessible area.
If ingested some detergents can be toxic to cats leading to serious health complications.
The Ingredients Used
The ingredients used in laundry detergent can also be a factor when it comes to cats.
Many detergents contain active ingredients like bleach or ammonia that can be toxic to cats if the product is ingested.
It’s important to check the label of any detergent you use and make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredients that could potentially interact with your cat’s system.
The Cleaning Method
The way you clean your laundry can also have an effect on its toxicity to cats.
If you use a washing machine make sure that you keep your cat away from the area while the machine is running.
This will help to prevent any detergent residue from becoming airborne and potentially coming into contact with your cat.
If you hand-wash your clothes make sure that the area is securely sealed before beginning.
The Safety Measures You Take
Finally the safety measures you take to ensure that your cat is kept away from laundry detergent can make a difference.
Cleaning products should be stored securely out of reach of pets at all times.
Additionally any detergent residue that does get on clothing or other surfaces should be cleaned up as soon as possible.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day laundry detergent can be toxic to cats if it’s ingested.
It’s important to take the necessary precautions to make sure your pet remains safe and healthy around detergent.
Keep an eye out for any signs of ingestion and make sure that you store detergent out of reach of your cat.