Keeping your household clean and sanitized is at the top of most chore lists, and knowing what cleaners are safe for dog & cats is must-have information for pet parents. But is there a pet-safe disinfectant that's also effective against human illnesses? How do you know what to look for when choosing cleaning products?

The key to purchasing and using cleaners with confidence is to know which ones to avoid, which can be used safely and how to keep cleaning supplies out of your furry friend's reach.

Side Effects of Hazardous Cleaning Products

There are very real consequences for pets that ingest, touch or inhale toxic hazardous cleaning agents. The following are some of the side effects pets may experience:

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Respiratory infection
• Chemical burns
• Liver failure
• Kidney failure
• Subtle signs may indicate skin exposure and are easy to miss — itching/scratching/redness/sores/

Pets and Household Cleaners

Cats and dogs like to chew on stuff, and lick everything from shoes to floors to fabric. That's why, if possible, it's best to avoid cleaning products with hazardous ingredients and always follow the manufacturers instructions. NEVER apply any household cleaner directly on a pet.

Harmful Ingredients for Dogs & Cats

These are some common ingredients where caution is needed:

• Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (BACS): This chemical is a very common disinfectant. It's also the top active ingredient in most brand-name and store-brand disinfecting wipes and sprays.
• Phenol: This organic chemical compound is used in some disinfecting wipes, sprays and floor cleaners. Some, but not all, cleaning products that have "sol" in their name contain phenol.
• Ammonia: This industrial chemical is in many household cleaning products for floors, windows, ovens, toilets, drains, bathrooms, stainless steel and multi-surface cleaners.
• Isopropyl Alcohol: Known more commonly as rubbing alcohol, it's the active ingredient in hand sanitizer.
• Bleach: Household chlorine bleach is a very common household cleaner on its own or as an added ingredient.
• Non-Chlorine or "Color-Safe" Bleach: Less toxic than regular bleach, this product usually contains hydrogen peroxide, which can cause vomiting.
• Essential Oils: Generally, you want to avoid using pure, undiluted essential oils in a home with pets, especially if you have cats. Most essential oils are toxic when ingested or inhaled.

If you do need to use disinfectant wipes or spray in your home, explains the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), ensure safety by following the product's directions exactly as stated. Call your veterinarian or poison control center with any questions. Disinfecting your home can be necessary, so if you are concerned about it affecting your pets, it is a good idea to keep them out that room for a couple of hours while the chemicals dry.