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My cat licked floor cleaner. Is it toxic? What are pet-safe products?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Tonkinese | Male | neutered | 10 months and 28 days old | 13 lbs

I just mopped the floor with a floor cleaner ( fabuloso) and my cat had escaped the room I placed them in while cleaning. Omar began to lick his paws, and I am extremely concerned he will become extremely ill. In the future are there safer items to use that are not harmful to pets.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Keay, DVM

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 29th, 2018

Most of the floor cleaners used nowadays are not heavily toxic and if your kitty just licked a small amount off his feet he shouldn't have any long term effects. Occasionally we may see some stomach upset or irritation to the mouth. I would offer him some food and just monitor him for vomiting and excessive drooling. If you notice any abnormal behaviors then you can bring him in for an exam. As I said, most floor cleaners will dry quickly and won't be harmful unless the pet is licking large volumes up, but if you want to be extra cautious you can mix vinegar with water to make a cleaning solution (though you can't use this on wood floors).
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