Insulation and Pets: What You Need To Know To Keep Them Safe

Our pets are like family, and we want to protect them against any predators or other harmful threats. Insulation may not be at the front of your mind regarding pet safety, but these two don’t mix. If you’re installing new insulation, you may want to keep your pet away from the excitement. Here’s what you need to know regarding pets and insulation.

What Should I Do if My Pet Consumes Insulation?

You should call your vet immediately if your dog, cat, or other pet has consumed insulation. It’s not safe for consumption. How quickly you react could be the difference between life and death for your pet. It doesn’t matter whether your dog ate spray foam insulation or fiberglass—it’s all the same.

Older insulation could contain asbestos. Newer insulation may not include the same harsh toxins, but it’s still harmful to your pet. Veterinarians will know how to handle poisoning and other scenarios.

Signs of Poisoning in Pets

Most pet owners won’t be able to tell their pet has ingested insulation until their dog or cat begins displaying symptoms. Consider yourself lucky if you catch your pet in the act. Side effects your dog ate something toxic include:

• Drooling
• Seizures
• Diarrhea
• Problems peeing
• Vomiting
• Wobbling when standing
• Bruising and bleeding
• Agitation

Cats have other unique signs to look out for. Yes, you may see a few of the above symptoms, but look out for these signs too:

• Lethargy
• Collapse
• Coughing
• Swelling or skin inflammation
• Labored breathing

Removing Insulation From Fur

Maybe your pet didn’t eat the insulation, but they had a wonderful time rolling around in it. Is there a way to remove all the insulation specks painlessly and safely? There sure is!

Put on a pair of rubber gloves, like the ones you keep below the kitchen sink, to protect yourself from the insulation. The pieces may only irritate your skin, but it’s still best to add a protective layer.

Use petroleum jelly when removing insulation from your pet’s fur. Spread a layer over the affected area and put plastic wrap over the jelly to prevent your pet from licking the petroleum. Watch your pet for the next hour to ensure your dog or cat isn’t trying to remove the plastic wrap.

The jelly will loosen up the insulation particles enough to remove the pieces. You can bathe your pup or kitty after and trim their fur to ensure every last speck of insulation is gone.

It’s safe to conclude that pets and insulation don’t mix. Do your best to keep them safe by installing cameras to check on your pets while you’re away, not allowing them to be present during insulation installation, and ensuring no insulation is left out in the open.

If you require new insulation in your home, call Paragon Protection. We’re a local insulation company in Crystal Lake, IL, ready to tackle your insulation issues. We can answer any insulation questions you may have. Contact us today!