So it remains for dog, cat & Co.
Wiesbaden. Dust and Match of Winter have to go out: for many people, the great pure pure begins with spring. Now windows are cleaned, drawers are mucked out, furniture converted. If you live together with pets, you should pay attention to your safety when it comes to sweeping in your own four walls. The Central Association of Zoological Specialists EV (ZZF) gives tips on how the spring cleaning succeeds in animal -friendly.
Cleaning agent: pay attention to compatibility
According to a study by the Mintel market research agency, 35 percent of animal owners in Germany, in which pets have been living for three years, pay attention to the fact that household care products are effective and contribute to the well -being of their animals. Because dogs, cats and small animals are sensitive to many commercially available products that are used in house cleaning. If you accidentally lick or sniff the cleaners, this can lead to poisoning.
Ingredients such as bleach or means with strong fragrances are particularly questionable. If the products contain a Salmiak solution, ammonia can also loosen from the air in the water and endanger fish or amphibians. Caution should also be taken for room sprays or fragrance oils – you can irritate the sensitive airways of pets, especially from ornamental birds.
“Cleaning agents should always be kept outside the range of pets, not only during spring cleaning,” recommends Selina Schlierenkamp, a scientific specialist at the ZZF. “Animal owners can fall back on natural alternatives such as vinegar, soda and lemon juice or use mild, pet -friendly products.” The zoo retailer has many products that are harmless to humans and animals.
If chemical cleaners are inevitable, the animals should be brought out of the room while cleaning and the treated surfaces are thoroughly wiped with water. Dogs and cats that run over freshly woven floors can later resist the chemicals when licking the paws.
Clean animal utensils
Anyone who has pets can often use the lint and vacuum cleaner to eliminate footsteps, fur balls or feathers. There are also cleaning agents that were specially developed for removing typical animal pollution such as urine and special smells. The feeding bowls from Bello, Lucky & Co. should be cleaned with hot water every day. “In spring cleaning, toys and other utensils can also be cleaned with a mild soap solution and rinsed off well. Cups, blankets or pillows can often be cleaned in the washing machine – mild, perfume -free detergent should be used because many pets have a pronounced sense of smell, ”advises Schlierenkamp.
Safe environment and retreats
When mucking out and changing the area, it should be careful of small animals and ornamental birds. Small parts, cables or cords lying around, risks pose when they are nibbled by curious pets.
For animals that are outside their enclosure for a long time, an extensive cleaning campaign can mean stress. Rabbits, guinea pigs or ornamental birds often react sensitive to noises. “It is best to offer you a quiet way to retreat in another room. For pets that behave sensitively in changes, you should take your time to slowly get used to the new environment, ”said Schlierenkamp.
Beware of plants and fertilizers
When everything sprouts and blooms outside, many people also want more green at home. But not all plants and flowers are suitable for pets. The popular Easter bells and yucca palms, for example, should remain out of reach for pets or be replaced by non-toxic alternatives. Caution also applies to fertilization: fertilizers can be very dangerous for pets when contacting or recording.