Lysol Allergy and Adverse Reaction in Cats

No doubt, you will often rely on cleaning products to wash and sanitize your home. Lysol is a popular disinfectant and cleaner used because of its ability to remove germs and give a sense of cleanliness. The scent of Lysol is often described as having a hospital smell and that can be because of phenols. 

Phenol is sometimes (but not always) found in Lysol. According to Science Direct, a peer-reviewed source of scholarly articles, Lysol is a derivative of the phenol group and is known for its disinfectant properties. 

Inhalation of, contact with, and the consumption of any cleaning products can cause an adverse reaction in felines. Although sometimes referred to as an allergy, symptoms seen when a cat comes in contact with a cleaning agent are typically a reaction to contact with the product.  If your cat has been exposed and is showing signs of a reaction to any sort of Lysol (liquid, spray, or wipes), your veterinarian should be contacted to evaluate the type and severity of the reaction.

Cats have a very keen sense of smell. They are often more sensitive to odors and fragrances than other animal species. Additionally, some scents can cause an adverse reaction when inhaled, consumed or exposed to via the skin. 

Symptoms of an adverse reaction and a mild contact response to Lysol are very similar, including:

• Tearing of the eyes
• Sneezing
• Throat irritation

Any type of cleaning product that contains ingredients that cause skin irritation may result in the following symptoms after prolonged exposure:

• Bumps on the skin
• Hair loss if your cat constantly licks the area
• Itchy skin
• Overgrooming
• Pulling out tufts of fur

Types

Lysol products found in the United States do not typically contain phenols but to be on the safe side, always check the ingedients label. Along with Phenols, quaternary ammonium compounds, pine oil, ethanol, and sodium hypochlorite (bleach) are ingredients that may cause irritation to your cat. 

Adverse reactions (sometimes mistakenly described as allergies) caused by contact with chemicals like phenol are the result of sensitivity to the skin, nose, and eyes. Breathing in fumes, licking a cleaning product off of a surface, or experiencing a splash of product in the eyes can cause an injury or reaction.

In regards to allergies, cats can sometimes have an allergy-type reaction to things like food and fleas. As well an inhalant allergy can be seen with pollens and mold, and the symptoms can present similarly to a reaction to exposure to certain cleaners.

Contact allergies and adverse reactions can result after exposure to shampoos, cleaners, detergents, and more.

If you see that your cat has evidence of an allergy or adverse reaction, take them to the vet. Discussing your concerns will be a step toward determining the cause of the skin, eyes, and nose irritation.

The vet will want to rule out underlying issues (such as an illness that manifests with similar symptoms). Of course, if you know for certain that your cat has been exposed to a cleaning product containing phenol, quat ammonium compounds, pine oils, or similar ingredients, bring the cleaner with you to the veterinary clinic.

If you have not yet attempted to wash the residue from the cleaning product from your pet's fur, the vet will do so. The vet will look at your cat's eyes, nose and throat to ensure there is no irritation present. If the skin is irritated, a prescription may be given to soothe and protect. 

The vet will most likely recommend products that you can use as cleaning agents that will not harm your pet. Even so, it is always advised to keep your cat in another room when using any types of cleaners or oils.

If you are concerned about your cat’s recovery once home from the hospital, contact the clinic for a re-evaluation. The veterinarian may recommend avoiding from now on the use of products containing phenol, such as Lysol, due to the threat of adverse reaction in your cat from the inhalation, consumption or allergic reaction to it. Additionally, continue the use of medication or ointments prescribed by the veterinarian until complete.