Ants can be a nuisance in any home, invading kitchens and other areas in search of food. While ant sprays and baits are an easy way to get rid of ants, many pet owners wonder if these products are safe to use around their furry friends. Ant sprays contain harsh chemicals that can be toxic to pets if used improperly. However, there are many ant spray products on the market that are formulated to be low-toxicity and safe for pets when used as directed.
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How Do Ant Sprays Work?
Ant sprays and baits contain insecticides that are designed to kill ants in different ways:
Contact Insecticides
Many ant sprays contain contact insecticides that kill ants on contact. These fast-acting ingredients include:
- Pyrethroids – synthetic versions of pyrethrins found in chrysanthemum flowers
- Neonicotinoids – similar to nicotine
- Tetramethrin
- Allethrin
When ants come into contact with these ingredients, they are quickly killed. Contact insecticides provide fast knockdown and kill ants on contact. However, they provide no residual control. Once the spray has dried, it will no longer kill ants.
Residual Insecticides
Other ant sprays and baits contain residual insecticides that continue working after the product has dried. These slower-acting ingredients are designed to be carried back to the nest where they kill ants over time. Residual insecticides in ant killers include:
- Fipronil
- Hydramethylnon
- Abamectin
- Boric acid
- Indoxacarb
Residual insecticides allow ant baits and sprays to keep killing ants for weeks after application. This provides long-term control of ant infestations.
Insect Growth Regulators
Some ant products contain insect growth regulator (IGR) ingredients that prevent ant larvae from developing into adults. By stopping this life cycle, IGRs can eliminate ant colonies over time. Examples include:
- Pyriproxyfen
- Fenoxycarb
- Methoprene
IGRs are slower but provide long-term ant control by preventing reproduction.
Are Ant Sprays Safe for Pets?
Whether an ant spray is safe for pets depends on the specific ingredients and formulation. Some general guidelines:
Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids
Pyrethrins and pyrethroids are generally safe for use around pets when label directions are followed. While toxic to insects, mammals like humans and pets break these ingredients down much more efficiently. However, cats may be more sensitive. Use caution and consult your vetif applying pyrethrins/pyrethroids directly to cats or areas where cats frequently lick or groom.
Neonicotinoids
While safe at low doses, some neonicotinoids like imidacloprid may be toxic to pets at higher concentrations. Carefully follow label instructions and keep pets away from treated areas until the spray has dried.
Organophosphates and Carbamates
Organophosphate (malathion, acephate) and carbamate (carbaryl) insecticides are more toxic to mammals and can cause poisoning in pets if ingested. Avoid ant killers containing these ingredients.
Boric Acid
Low concentrations of boric acid are low toxicity and safe around pets when used properly. Avoid letting pets ingest large amounts.
Growth Regulators
IGR ingredients like methoprene and pyriproxyfen have very low toxicity to pets and wildlife.
Considerations for Dogs
Dogs are most at risk of being exposed to ant killers. Their curious noses lead them to accidentally ingesting granules, baits, and sprays. The biggest risk is when treatments are applied in areas dogs can access. Never apply ant bait stations or spray liquid treatments in reach of pets. Keep dogs outside when applying indoor ant treatments and avoid treating areas where dogs play or relax. Read labels carefully and look for pet-safe claims before using ant products in homes with dogs.
Considerations for Cats
Cats can also be exposed by accidentally ingesting or coming into contact with ant killers, but they are more likely to be affected when grooming after products are applied. Cats spend much of their time licking and grooming themselves, so avoid applying ant treatments in areas frequented by cats. Never use ant sprays directly on cats. Consult your veterinarian before using products on or near cats due to their sensitive metabolism. Look for ant killers labeled as safe for cats.
Precautions with Exotic Pets
Small mammals like guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, ferrets, and birds can also be negatively impacted by some ant products. The small size of these pets makes them more susceptible. Take extra care to keep exotic small pets away from any areas treated with ant killer. Only use products designed specifically for small pets when treating areas housing exotic animals.
Tips for Using Ant Killers Around Pets
You can safely control ants in a pet-friendly home. Here are some tips:
- Read labels carefully and avoid products with pet toxicity warnings.
- Use ant baits instead of sprays when possible.
- Place baits or traps out of reach of pets.
- Never treat areas where pets eat or sleep.
- Prevent access to treated areas until dry.
- Clean up spills right away.
- Follow all label instructions.
With proper precautions, many ant spray and bait products can be used safely around pets when labels are followed. Restrict access until treatments have dried. Clean up thoroughly after application, especially on surfaces where pets will walk or lie down. Monitor your pets after use and call your veterinarian immediately if any odd behavior or symptoms occur. When in doubt, consult your vet on the safest products to eliminate ants while also protecting your furry companions.
Pet-Safe Ant Products
Here are some examples of ant killers that are effective while also labeled as safe for use around pets:
Pet-Safe Ant Baits
- Terro T300 Liquid Ant Bait Stations – borax formula
- Raid Ant Baits – fipronil
- Safer Brand Ant Kill – boric acid bait stations
- EcoLogic Liquid Ant Bait – sodium tetraborate decahydrate
Pet-Friendly Ant Sprays
- Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control – cedar oil, lemongrass oil, rosemary oil
- EcoSmart Ant & Insect Killer – rosemary and peppermint oil
- Safer Brand Ant & Crawling Insect Killer – diatomaceous earth
- Babyganics Spider, Ant & Scorpion Killer – essential oils
Prescription Ant Prevention for Pets
Veterinarians may prescribe oral or topical medications like fipronil or lufenuron to safely prevent ants on dogs and cats. These provide short-term ant protection when applied monthly.
Look for “pet safe” or “pet friendly” claims on product labels to choose the safest options. Follow all instructions carefully when using around pets. Monitor for any signs of irritation or illness after application. With smart product selection and proper use, many ant killers can be used safely even in homes with pets.
Natural Ant Deterrents
For the most cautious pet owners, there are some natural options to repel ants without insecticides:
- Diatomaceous earth – abrasive dust dehydrates ants
- Borax – disrupts ant digestion
- Vinegar – masks scent trails
- Lemon juice – strong scent deters ants
- Peppermint oil – repellent odor
- Cinnamon – spicy scent repels ants
Use these around the exterior perimeter areas of the home, along window sills, around doorways, or other ant entry points. Avoid using inside unless you can restrict pet access since these can be harmful if ingested in large amounts. Natural options may be less effective than chemical ant killers but provide a non-toxic method for sensitive pets.
When to Call an Exterminator for Ants
For severe ant infestations, professional exterminators have access to stronger treatments like:
- Indoxacarb
- Fipronil
- Hydramethylnon
They also have advanced application techniques and equipment. However, make sure to choose a pest control company that offers pet-safe practices. They should:
- Survey your home to assess pet risks
- Use the least toxic products possible
- Restrict access to treated areas until dried
- Post signs to indicate treated zones
- Offer follow-up appointments if issues persist
A pet-friendly exterminator will get rid of ants effectively while still taking extra precautions for pets.
First Aid If Pet Ingests Ant Killer
If you believe your pet may have ingested or come into contact with ant killer chemicals:
- Remain calm – anxiety can worsen any illness
- Restrict access to any contaminated areas
- Read the product label for a poison control hotline number to call
- Call your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately
- If instructed, induce vomiting ONLY if the pet is conscious
- Take a sample of the product with you to the vet appointment
Timing is critical, so seek guidance from a poison expert right away if you believe your pet has any exposure to ant killers. With prompt treatment, most pets recover fully after minor exposure to ant insecticides.
Prevention of Pet Exposure
While ant sprays and baits are formulated to be low toxicity for mammals, improper use can still risk pet health. Take these steps to keep your pets safe:
- Read all labels carefully and avoid products with pet warnings
- Choose pet-safe brands whenever possible
- Follow label directions exactly
- Restrict access to treated areas when required
- Clean up after application
- Store products securely out of reach
- Keep treatments away from pet food, toys, and bedding
With smart preventative measures, ant killers and pets can safely coexist in the home. But always put your pet’s health first when dealing with any pesticides. If in doubt, call your veterinarian or consider safer natural ant deterrents until the infestation is under control.
Conclusion
Controlling ant infestations when you own pets requires extra care and caution. But many ant sprays, baits, traps, and treatments are specially designed to be safe around pets when label directions are followed properly. Keep products out of reach, restrict pet access to treated areas, and clean up after applying. Natural repellents can also deter ants without the use of chemicals. Call in a professional exterminator for severe cases – but be sure to verify they are take precautions to protect pets. With smart product selection, proper use, and preventative measures, ant killers and pets can safely co-exist in the home. But be ready to provide immediate first aid and call a poison control expert if you suspect any accidental ingestion or exposure.