Air fresheners are dangerous for pets

Chemicals in air fresheners, toilet bowl cleaners, mothballs, and deodorizing products are proven human respiratory irritants. It is safe to assume these products will also harm pets’ lungs.

The chemical in air fresheners, toilet bowl cleaners, mothballs, and deodorizing products that causes the greatest problem is dichlorobenzene (DCB), a “volatile organic compound. DCB is found in highest concentration in products used to control insects, such as moth balls and insecticides. DCB is also found in high concentrations in products used to deodorize homes and toilets. In research studies, DCB was found to immediately reduce lung function and many suspect DCB predispose to respiratory disease. Many other respiratory irritants (cigarette smoke, wood smoke, and industrial chemicals ) were also evaluated, but DCB was the only chemical found to instantly affect lung function.

Protect your pets’ lungs. Don’t use commercial room refreshers, moth balls, or toilet bowl deodorizers with DCB. Instead, control odor by removing stool and urine. Promote the movement of fresh air through your pets’ environment, and scent rooms with healthy products, such as lemon peels or ground cinnamon.

If your pet has a history of exposure to DCB, provide antioxidants and Omega 3 fatty acids to help normalize lung function.