Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray is a plant-based cleaner that is marketed as being safe for use around pets. However, some pet owners have raised concerns about the safety of the product, as it contains several chemicals that can be harmful to animals if ingested or inhaled.

Is Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray Safe for Pets?

Ingredients of Concern

The main ingredients of Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray that are of concern to pet owners are:

  • Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride: This is a quaternary ammonium compound that is used as a disinfectant and sanitizer. It can be harmful to pets if ingested or inhaled, and can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: This is a surfactant that is used to create foam and help the product spread evenly. It can be irritating to the skin and eyes of pets, and can also cause gastrointestinal problems if ingested.
  • Fragrance: The fragrance in Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray is made up of a blend of essential oils. While essential oils are generally considered to be safe for pets, some animals can be sensitive to them. Inhaling essential oils can cause respiratory problems in pets, and ingesting them can cause gastrointestinal problems.

Potential Risks to Pets

Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray can pose several potential risks to pets, including:

  • Ingestion: If a pet ingests Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray, it can cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to liver and kidney damage.
  • Inhalation: If a pet inhales Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray, it can cause respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia.
  • Skin irritation: If Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray comes into contact with a pet's skin, it can cause irritation, redness, and itching. In severe cases, it can lead to blisters and sores.
  • Eye irritation: If Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray gets into a pet's eyes, it can cause pain, redness, and swelling. In severe cases, it can lead to corneal ulcers and blindness.

How to Keep Pets Safe from Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray

If you are concerned about the safety of Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray around your pets, there are several things you can do to keep them safe:

  • Store the product out of reach of pets: Keep the product in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf where pets cannot access it.
  • Do not use the product in areas where pets are present: Avoid using the product in areas where pets spend a lot of time, such as the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms.
  • Ventilate the area after use: If you must use the product in an area where pets are present, make sure to open the windows and doors to ventilate the area after use.
  • Rinse surfaces thoroughly: If you use the product on surfaces that pets may come into contact with, make sure to rinse the surfaces thoroughly with water after use.
  • Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet ingests or inhales the product: If your pet ingests or inhales Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray, contact your veterinarian immediately. The sooner your pet receives treatment, the better the chances of a full recovery.