Sure you love that awesome fragrance of Fabuloso and want to keep it as your routine cleaner. But is it safe for your furry little friends? Can it be used around pets? Is it toxic for cats? What happens if your cat happens to lick some of it?
Is Fabuloso Safe for Cats?
Fabuloso is a pH-neutral multi-purpose cleaner that can be used around cats and other pets. Additionally, it does not contain bleach or ammonia hence it is safe to use around cats.
Moreover, the scent can mask the smell of pet odors. However, Fabuloso Complete should be avoided as this contains active ingredients that are toxic to cats.
Cats lick themselves frequently to groom themselves. (Source) So, if they happen to walk on wet surfaces that still have the soapy residue, they will end up licking themselves and ingest a small amount of cleaning solution.
You can observe how your pet reacts when you use Fabuloso. If your cat or kitten ingests a large amount of it, you need to take it to the vet immediately.
Ingredients of This Cleaner and its Effects on Cats
Out of all the ingredients of Fabuloso, the following can be mildly harmful to cats:
Sodium dodecyl benzenesulfonate – This Irritates the skin, nose, throat, and lungs. It can also harm the eyes. (Source)
C9-11 Pareth-8 and Sodium C12-15 Pareth Sulfate can also cause skin irritation. (Source)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate can cause respiratory issues in cats, especially if the product is used in concentrated form. (Source) In addition, it may induce vomiting and diarrhea.
Citric acid can be highly toxic for cats. It can irritate the nervous system of the cat and can also cause an upset stomach. (Source)
Fabuloso Complete – Apart from the ingredients stated above, Fabuloso Complete contains additional active ingredients such as
Hydrogen peroxide will make a cat bleed internally and cause inflammation of the stomach and esophagus. (Source)
Lactic acid can cause pain and seizures.
Excessive sodium chloride causes diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy.
Since Fabuloso is not used as a concentrate, but in diluted form, the toxicity of some of these chemicals is minimized. Furthermore, the amount of each chemical is minute, and unlikely to cause permanent harm if the cat happens to take a couple of licks of the product.
If you notice that your cat seems to be repelled by this product, avoid using it.
Never use Fabuloso to wash the cat. Skin and eye irritation will occur.
What to Do if Your Cat Licked Fabuloso?
If your cat seems to have ingested Fabuloso, do the following:
1- Wash the paws with water so your cat stops licking the cleaner. You can also flush the mouth with water to remove the cleaning residue.
2- If you think the cat has taken in a large amount of the cleaner, take it to the vet immediately. Take the bottle as well so the vet can see the ingredients and give the right treatment.
3- If you are unable to take the cat to the vet, call a poison hotline and explain the incident. They will offer tips on what to do.
4- If your cat has just taken a small lick, there is nothing to worry about. They may vomit or have diarrhea, but the cat should be fine. Signs of poisoning are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Abdominal pain
- Convulsions
- Tremors
- Weakness
- Shivering
5- Observe the cat for the above signs. Take them to the vet if they appear unwell.
Avoid Cat Poisoning with the Following Tips
To avoid your furball from being poisoned, do the following:
1- Use products that are safe around pets. Fabuloso is pH neutral. However, some products are highly acidic or high in alkali levels.
2- Do not use in concentrate form. Dilute the products as per instructions.
3- Do not clean with pets around. Lock them out while cleaning.
4- Do not leave buckets with cleaning solutions inside. Pets can easily drink from this or fall in.
5- Always put the cleaning products away safely, and ensure that the lid is securely closed.
6- Clean up any spills immediately, and then rinse the area with water to remove all traces of cleaning residue.
7- Once you finish cleaning, let the pet in only after the area has fully dried.
8- Stop using the product if you notice that the pet seems to be reacting to it. There could be rashes on the skin or a subtle behavior change.
Chemicals That Are Harmful to Cats
Certain chemicals and products are harmful to cats. If you have a pet feline, it is good to know which ones they are. Below is a list of products that can be toxic to curious cats:
1- Certain household cleaners
Certain cleaners, especially the ones containing bleach can be poisonous to cats. Beware of toilet bowl cleaners and drain cleaners.
2- Human medication
Certain medications for humans are a threat to cats. These are pain relievers, antidepressants, and cancer medication.
3- Human food
Food fit for humans but not cats includes chocolate, garlic, onions, raisins, and grapes.
4- Household plants
Plants such as aloe, lilies, tulips, chrysanthemums, and mistletoe are not good for cats.
5- Flea medication for dogs
Never apply anything specific for a dog to a cat.
If you get a new pet cat or kitten, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with such items. Talk to the vet for more information and if you are unsure about other items and products.
Final Thoughts!
Fabuloso is safe to use around cats. However, it is good to observe the cat when using this product. Make note of any changes. If this is due to the product, stop using it.
Never clean while the pet is in the room. Always take it out or leave it locked in another room to avoid any accidents.
Always keep cleaning products out of the reach of pets.
