Mosquitoes are as harmful parasites to pets as they are to humans. But as much as you want to get rid of them, you have to be sure that the mosquito repellent will not be harmful to the pet. To choose suitable mosquito repellents, check their content to ensure it does not contain oils and ingredients dangerous to your dog or cat.
Harmful Ingredients for Pets
If your mosquito repellent or yard spray contains any ingredients below, do not get them if you have a pet. Professional exterminators know how to use them.
DEET
DEET is one of the most common ingredients in bug repellents. And though it is not harmful to humans (if its concentration is less than 30%), it can be very damaging to pets. If the pets consume it, it can cause inflammation of their airways, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or tremors.
Marigold plants
Marigold plants are not so toxic if the pets do not consume them in large quantities. But to be safe, you can avoid using them at all.
Garlic
Garlic is toxic to animals, including bugs and your pets. It is so effective that many pest repellents contain it. However, garlic consumption by your pet can cause anemia because it has thiosulfate, an ion that destroys the red blood cells.
Geranium
Geranium is not as toxic as other substances. But when your pets ingest it, it can cause respiratory tract inflammation, depression, and digestive tract upset.
Citronella
Both the inhalation and consumption of citronella plants are harmful to pets, especially dogs. So steer clear of citronella oils and candles if you have a dog.
Essential oils
Many essential oils are toxic to pets, especially if they are not correctly processed to be safe for pets. So, if you are unsure which is suitable for your pets, it is best to steer clear of them. Some essential oils harmful to dogs are pine, clove, wintergreen, anise, yarrow, thyme, citrus, cinnamon, camphor, etc.
Natural Insects Repellents Safe for Pets
If you do not want to use products that might harm your pets, you can use natural pest repellent plants instead.
Lemon Balm plants
If you want to repel mosquitoes, place lemon balm plants around your home. They are safe for pests and good for tea. However, you might attract butterflies and bees with their scents.
Basil plants
Basil plants are also suitable for repelling mosquitoes. You can plant them in your garden or pots and keep the mosquitoes away from home. They do not harm the pets, whether by inhalation or consumption.
Catnip plants
Your cats might want to eat this up, but they are not harmful to them, and their scent repels mosquitoes. And it contains nepetalactone, a chemical that is ten times more effective than DEET.
Conclusion
If you have pets, you have to be extra careful choosing a mosquito repellent or yard spray. And if you do not want to go through the trouble, you should employ a professional pest control service provider. Click here to contact one.
