Cat Shampoo
Cat Flea Shampoo
There are many cat flea shampoos on the market that claim to be safe because they use natural products. However, it is wise to inform yourself about the true nature of the ingredients before using them on your cat, since even some of the ones derived from natural sources can have harmful side effects.
Hydrosols vs. Essential Oils
Many cat flea shampoos contain essential oils, which are poisonous to cats. The feline liver cannot metabolize the compounds in essential oils, which build up to toxic levels with repeated use. Cats can only tolerate essential oils when they have been turned into hydrosols, which are colloidal solutions that suspend the particles in water. So when shopping for shampoo for cats, be sure to check the label for hydrosols versus essential oils.
The same warning about essential oils goes for flea repellent sprays. One popular Sentry spray that touts itself as a natural defense against fleas is full of essential oils. The directions encourage users to ensure that the spray penetrates the pet’s fur right down to the skin, which is a recipe for disaster, since the essential oils penetrate the skin to damage the liver. In addition, the product renders the pet’s fur greasy, which stresses the cat.
Toxic Ingredients
Pennyroyal is a common ingredient in cat flea shampoos, but it is toxic for cats and can result in elevated liver enzymes, and ultimately in liver disease.
D-limonene was developed to replace toxic citrus oil, and yet it can cause bad reactions in sensitive cats and kittens.
Tea tree oil is an essential oil, and should not be part of a cat flea shampoo.
Signs of toxicity for the above ingredients include muscle tremors, shivering, convulsions and excessive salivation.
Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant used in many human products as well as in some cat flea shampoos. It can be an irritant and should be avoided on cats with delicate skin or sensitive systems.
Pyrethrin is an extract of an African Chrysanthemum. Because it is derived from flowers, many pet owners assume that it is safe, but in fact, cats are susceptible to poisoning and allergic reactions. Pyrethrin is the main ingredient in spray insecticides such as Raid and Hot Shot. It’s also the main ingredient in products by Hartz, Sentry, Sergeants and others, some of whom use the word “bio” or “natural” in the product name.
Green Pet Safe Cleaning
Green Pet Shampoos
Cat Shampoo
Dog Shampoo
Horse Shampoo
Biodegradable Wee Pads
Going Green Values
Green Dog Toys
