Are natural repellents safe for pets and children?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.While natural repellents are not chemicals, you still need to use them safely around pets and children. Undiluted essential oils can yield horrible reactions in cats. Borax powder is poisonous if consumed.
Essential Oil Precautions
- Dilute to maximum 5% concentration in water
- Avoid tea tree and peppermint oils around cats
- Apply only in ventilated areas
- Store bottles in locked cabinets
Powder Handling
- Wear N95 masks during diatomaceous earth application
- Use hand dusters to prevent airborne clouds
- Apply thin lines in inaccessible areas
- Vacuum residues with HEPA filters after 48 hours
Borax Safety Measures
- Use childproof bait stations only
- Place stations 4ft above ground level
- Never mix with food attractants in open containers
- Store original containers in locked storage
Cats are at an extreme risk from essential oils; their livers cannot process the phenols in the oils of tea tree, citrus, and other essential oils. Inhalation of even diffused oils can cause respiratory distress, so drooling and tremors are common signs of even the tiniest exposure . So always shut the cat outside while application occurs in the home. Use vinegar, not oils, for cleaning.
Employ application timing methods. Apply treatments when children and pets are outdoors. Animals should be confined elsewhere for 2 hours after spraying oils on the area. Keep people out of treated rooms until surfaces are dry to the touch. Baby gates can be used to cordon off certain areas while you work.
Storage requires absolute security. All repellents should be stored in locked metal cabinets, at least 5 feet above floor level. Borax mixtures should be stored in childproof containers, and each container should be clearly labeled with its contents and warnings. Never transfer anything to food containers. These precautions will prevent any accidents.
Be aware of emergency responses for various potential exposures. For skin contact with a substance, rinse the affected area with water for 15 minutes. If ingested, please call Poison Control at once. Have hydrogen peroxide handy in case your dog needs to vomit - never use it for other pets. Post emergency numbers where they are visible. Your preparedness will save lives during an accident.
Read the full article: Natural Ant Repellents That Work
