An Internet rumor recently alleged that a cleaning product used in homes contained deadly anti-freeze and was responsible for the death of a domestic dog. However, toxicology experts at the ASPCA put this “fake news” to rest and determined that the product doesn’t contain ethylene glycol found in antifreeze and is therefore safe to use around domestic animals.

But it’s still important to evaluate what cleaning products can cause harm to our pets because they are often curious animals with their noses close to the ground. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) has a comprehensive guideline for cleaning products that may be harmful to your beloved pets. If you do suspect that your pet has been exposed to any poisonous substances contact your veterinarian or call the APCC’s hotline at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Here are some common household products and information on whether they are safe for your pets:

• Essential Oils. Cats are especially sensitive to essential oils and the side effects could be gastrointestinal upset, central nervous system depression and even liver damage if they ingest the oils. Inhalation can lead to aspiration pneumonia. There are varying degrees of toxicity in essential oils, but experts recommend keeping pets away unless they are supervised or your veterinarian gives the okay.
• Bleach. Pet parents often wonder if cleaning their pets’ cages, toys and other materials with bleach is harmful. According to the ASPCA, if you properly dilute the bleach followed by a thorough rinsing and airing out, it’s not expected to be harmful. Keep windows open to air out the fumes and put the cleaning products away in a safe place.
• Fabric Softener Sheet. Fabric softeners contain cationic detergents which can cause drooling, vomiting, oral and esophageal ulcers and fever. These clinical signs do require treatment by a veterinarian. The fresh, unused sheets are the most dangerous.
• Carpet Fresheners. Proper use of carpet deodorizing products should also be safe. However if your pet comes into contact with freshly applied powder, it is recommended to wash their paws with soap and water to avoid skin irritation. It’s a good idea to keep your pet out of the room when applying the powder until after you have vacuumed.
• Febreze. Contrary to more rumors alleging that Febreze causes serious illness or death in pets, veterinary toxicologists at the ASPCA regard this product to be safe for use in households with pets.
• Grout. Grout sealers vary in toxicity from non-toxic to alkaline corrosive. Alkaline products can cause drooling and vomiting, too, like the cationic agents. Confirm the ingredients in the brand you are using and check with your veterinarian or the APCC. To play it safe, keep the pets away from newly applied grout until it dries.
• Toilet Cleaning Tablets. Most toilet bowl cleaning products would not be expected to cause problems beyond minor stomach upset should a dog take a drink from the diluted water in the toilet bowl. However, bacterial-related intestinal problems could occur from drinking stagnant toilet bowl water, so it’s best to discourage your pet from using the commode as a drinking fountain.