Is Household Insect Spray Concentrate Toxic to Dogs and Cats?

Toxic - Danger

This can be dangerous at any amount. Contact your veterinarian or poison control immediately if your pet is exposed.

The pesticide product "Household Insect Spray Concentrate" is a chemical mixture used for controlling household pests. The exact form and specific pests it targets are not provided. The product contains several active ingredients, which are: - **1,2-Methylenedioxy-4-(2-(octylsulfidnyl)propyl)benzene (5%)** - **Aliphatic petroleum solvent (84.568%)** - **Diazinon (9.45%)** - **Pyrethrins (0.982%)** Typically, such household insect sprays are used to control common indoor pests by application in areas where insects are known or suspected to frequent, such as baseboards, under sinks, corners, and other hidden spots. ### Toxicity for Cats and Dogs: - **Cats:** - **Diazinon:** Highly toxic to cats, causing symptoms such as drooling, nausea, vomiting, tremors, and even potentially life-threatening conditions like respiratory distress and seizures. - **Pyrethrins:** Even at low concentrations, pyrethrins can be highly toxic to cats, leading to symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, muscle tremors, and seizures. - **Aliphatic Petroleum Solvent:** Can cause skin and respiratory irritation, and ingesting large amounts can be toxic. - **Dogs:** - **Diazinon:** Also toxic to dogs, though to a lesser extent than cats. Symptoms may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, seizures or death. - **Pyrethrins:** Dogs are generally less sensitive than cats, but large doses can still cause symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and ataxia (loss of coordination). - **Aliphatic Petroleum Solvent:** Similar risks as in cats, with potential for irritation and toxicity if ingested or inhaled. ### Precautions: - Always follow label instructions for safe application and storage. - Avoid direct exposure to pets and ensure treated areas are well-ventilated and dry before allowing pets to re-enter. - Store the product out of reach of pets and children. - In case of suspected poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately. It's important to use this product responsibly, considering the significant risks it poses to household pets.