Pine-Sol and Pets
Find out if Pine-Sol is safe around dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Pine-Sol and similar pine-scented or phenol-based cleaners are toxic to both dogs and cats. Cats are particularly at risk because they cannot efficiently metabolize phenols, making even small exposures potentially life-threatening. Dogs can also suffer serious harm if they ingest the product or walk on freshly cleaned floors and then lick their paws.
Exposure most commonly happens when pets drink from a bucket of cleaning solution, lick spilled liquid, or walk across damp floors and groom their paws. Inhalation of strong fumes can irritate the respiratory tract, while direct contact can cause chemical burns to the skin, mouth, or paws.
To keep pets safe, store Pine-Sol out of reach, use it only when pets are out of the room, and ensure floors are completely dry and rinsed before allowing animals back. Consider switching to a pet-safe, pH-neutral cleaner labeled as non-toxic for use in homes with animals.
Is Pine-Sol Safe for Dogs?
Phenol-based cleaners can cause gastrointestinal upset, chemical burns, respiratory irritation, and organ damage if ingested or absorbed through the skin.
Is Pine-Sol Safe for Cats?
Cats are especially vulnerable to phenol toxicity; exposure can cause severe neurological signs, liver damage, and death.
Active Ingredients
- phenol
- pine oil
Common Products
- Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Pine-Sol Original
Common Location
kitchenbathroomfloors
Ventilation Notes
Use only in well-ventilated areas; keep pets out of the room until surfaces are completely dry and fumes have dissipated.
Dilution Warning
Even diluted solutions can be toxic if ingested or walked on by pets; rinse floors thoroughly after cleaning.
Symptoms to Watch For
- vomiting
- drooling
- difficulty breathing
- lethargy
- chemical burns
- seizures
- loss of coordination
- liver or kidney damage
What If My Pet Was Exposed to Pine-Sol?
Remove your pet from the area, rinse any contacted skin or fur with water, do not induce vomiting, and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately.
Sources
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.