The Dangers of DEET: Why Human Mosquito Repellents Are Unsafe for Pets

Repelling insects like mosquitoes are a vital part of keeping your pet safe, especially when they carry deadly diseases like West Nile Virus and heartworms. Unfortunately, many people-safe options are not pet-safe, making it difficult to know when you're doing more harm than good.

From DEET products to toxic and high-concentration essential oils, knowing what to avoid is the first step toward safe and effective mosquito protection. In this blog, we'll dive into the dangers of DEET use around pets, other mosquito-repellent products to avoid, and how you can use natural options to keep your pet protected.

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What Are DEET Products?

DEET products are insect repellents containing N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), a chemical that tricks mosquitoes by making it difficult for them to identify and locate you. This process works by confusing the receptors on their antennae.

DEET products are typically applied to the clothes or directly to the skin. However, even people should avoid applying it near cuts or rashes and always follow label directions. Common DEET products include:

• Lotions
• Creams
• Gels
• Aerosol sprays
• Pump sprays
• Towelettes

Why DEET is Unsafe For Pets

Unfortunately, both cats and dogs are sensitive to the active ingredient in DEET, whether applied directly to the skin or simply in the vicinity. DEET is also extremely toxic when ingested. You should take your pet to the vet immediately if you suspect they've been exposed.

Pets can have several adverse reactions to DEET exposure, including:

Symptoms of DEET Toxicity in Pets

DEET often causes neurological problems in pets, whether ingested or applied to the skin.

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Red, tearing, or runny eyes
• Skin irritation
• Drooling
• Inflammation of the stomach
• Ataxia
• Seizures

Other Human Mosquito Repellents That Are Unsafe For Pets

While DEET and other chemical-repellent products are the worst offenders when it comes to impacting your pet's health negatively, other human-safe options should also be reconsidered. Remember, just because it doesn't have a noteworthy impact on human health, doesn't mean it won't impact the health of your pet.

Citronella Plants

While many mosquito-repelling plants are pet-safe, this popular option isn't. Citronella plants are toxic to both cats and dogs, potentially causing severe symptoms if ingested. Cats are also especially sensitive to Citronella oil diffused into the air. Common signs that your pet has been poisoned include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stool
• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Tremors
• Shortness of breath
• Skin inflammation
• Abdominal discomfort or pain

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, take your pet to the vet immediately!

Additionally, if you plan on using Citronella candles or oils to repel mosquitoes, we recommend only using them outside and avoiding any areas your pets frequent. All non-pet-safe plants should always be well out of reach of both dogs and cats.

Concentrated Essential Oils

Essential oils come in many different types at varying concentrations, with diluted lemon eucalyptus being a great example of a pet-safe repellent. However, concentrated or pet-toxic essential oils should always be avoided, as these repellents can cause skin irritation at best, and a trip to the vet at worst. Here is a list of essential oils to avoid:

Pet-Toxic Essential Oils

• Tea Tree (especially deadly to cats)
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Garlic
• Pennyroyal
• Sweet Basil
• Birch
• Anise
• Wintergreen
• Oregano
• Thyme

Examples of Pet-Safe Mosquito Repellents

To avoid having to call poison control while also defending your pet against mosquito-borne diseases, here are examples of safe and effective mosquito repellents:

Diluted Spray Products

While some concentrated essential oils are toxic to pets, many others can actually be beneficial in small, diluted doses. Beneficial oils mosquitoes hate include geranium, lavender, lemon balm, and cedarwood. A general guideline is to mix 3–6 drops of a safe essential oil with an ounce of carrier oil like sweet almond oil.

Or, you can find pet-safe sprays that pre-mix these ingredients. Just be sure to read the product label thoroughly before purchasing.

You can also utilize citrus juices, as mosquitoes hate citrus. Some lemon or orange juice applied to the coat will do the trick, but be mindful to avoid your pet's eyes and any open cuts.

Pet-Safe Mosquito-Repelling Plants

While Citronella is pet-toxic, there are several pet-safe, mosquito-repelling plants you can spread throughout your home and garden. Many of these plants are herbs you can also enjoy in homemade dishes:

• Basil
• Rosemary
• Lemon Balm
• Catnip
• Peppermint
• Lavender

Bio-Resonance Technology

This revolutionary tech is one of the most safe and effective ways to keep mosquitoes off your pet, even near standing water or after a rainy day. These products are often available in the form of convenient tags made from materials that emit bio-resonance energy. Insects like mosquitoes will find the frequency disturbing and avoid your pet. No harmful chemicals, AND no bites.

Protect Your Pet The Right Way With BioPower Pet Products

Want to learn more about how you can use bio-resonance technology to protect your pet from mosquitoes? For comprehensive, natural protection that lasts a full year, invest in a BioPower Pet Shield Tag.

The BioPower Pet Shield Tag is a sturdy stainless-steel tag that hangs from your pet's collar just like an ID tag. The process of emitting bio-resonance energy uses no harmful chemicals, electricity, batteries, or magnetic fields. The BioPower Pet Shield Spray uses the same technology but with the bonus of a Citronella scent and other pet-safe ingredients.

Plus, with a 60-day money-back guarantee, there is no risk in trying these products out!

Keep Pets Safe From DEET & Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Today!

If you want to defend your beloved pets against not only the harmful diseases spread by mosquitoes but also pet-toxic products containing DEET, look no further! BioPower Pet has everything you need to keep your pets safe the natural way. All of our products are non-toxic and quality-tested by thousands of satisfied pet owners for over 10 years.

Keep mosquitoes running instead of biting with BioPower Pet tags and sprays!