Spiders can be annoying and frightening pests in the home. While many are harmless, some spider bites can be dangerous for pets. Using a spider spray is an effective way to get rid of spiders, but care must be taken to choose a product that won’t harm pets.
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Dangers of Spiders for Pets
Most household spiders are not dangerous to pets. Common species like daddy long legs, house spiders, and cobweb spiders have fangs too small to penetrate skin and venom that is harmless to cats and dogs. However, a few spiders can pose a risk:
- Black widow spiders – Venom is neurotoxic to pets, causing muscle tremors, drooling, vomiting, difficulty breathing
- Brown recluse spiders – Venom can cause tissue necrosis at the bite site in pets
- Hobo spiders – Mildly venomous, similar to brown recluse spider
Spider bites are somewhat uncommon in pets. However, it’s best to control spider populations, especially if venomous species are prevalent in your area.
Choosing a Safe Spider Spray
There are a few key things to look for in choosing a pet-safe spider spray:
- Natural ingredients – Plant-based ingredients like peppermint, clove, and rosemary oils are safe if licked or touched by pets
- Low-odor formulas – Avoid sprays with strong smells that may irritate respiratory systems
- Non-aerosol – Aerosol sprays can be inhaled and get into eyes and ears
- Targeted spraying – Spot treat areas spiders are seen rather than whole-room misting
Avoid sprays that contain pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or neonicotinoids as these ingredients can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Read labels carefully and talk to your vet if you have any concerns about an ingredient.
7 Best Spider Sprays Safe for Pets
Here are the top 7 recommended spider sprays that are safe to use in homes with pets:
| Product | Active Ingredient(s) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wondercide Natural Ready-to-Use Spray | Cedar oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil | Kills and repels spiders; safe for pets and humans |
| EcoSMART Organic Spider Spray | 2-Phenethyl propionate, eugenol | Plant-based ingredients; kills spiders on contact |
| Safer Brand Spider Spray | Eugenol, thyme oil, lemongrass oil | Made from essential oils; low odor formula |
| Nature’s Magic Organic Spider Deterrent | Peppermint oil, clove oil | Repels spiders; non-toxic and hypoallergenic |
| Eco Defense Organic Home Pest Control Spray | Peppermint oil, rosemary oil, cinnamon oil | Kills and repels spiders; made in the USA |
| Aunt Fannie’s Spider Spray | Vinegar, peppermint oil, rosemary oil | Natural ingredients kill and repel spiders |
| Wondercide Natural Indoor Pest Control | Cedar oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil | Ready-to-use spray or concentrate formula |
Tips for Using Spider Sprays Safely Around Pets
When using natural spider sprays in a home with pets, follow these safety tips:
- Test spray in small inconspicuous area first to check for any skin sensitivity in pets
- Apply only as directed, using targeted spraying rather than broad misting
- Make sure pets are out of room when spraying and allow product to dry completely before allowing pets back in
- Never spray directly onto pets
- Ensure good ventilation when spraying indoors
- Keep pets away from treated areas until spray has dried
- Wash pet bedding regularly in case of residue transfer
It’s also a good idea to discuss options with your veterinarian, especially if you have pets that are elderly, have allergies, or are on medication.
Natural Ways to Repel Spiders
Along with targeted spraying, there are some other pet-safe steps you can take to repel spiders and reduce infestations:
- Use essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, citrus, or eucalyptus oil to repel spiders – dilute in water and spray baseboards, windowsills, and other areas spiders are seen
- Place bowls of vinegar around rooms to deter spiders with the strong scent
- Seal cracks and crevices around the home so spiders have fewer entry points
- Keep basements and storage areas free of clutter and cardboard boxes
- Install dehumidifiers to reduce damp environments spiders prefer
- Use sticky traps to catch wandering spiders
- Keep plants trimmed back from the house
- Clean up fallen leaves, debris, wood piles, etc around the exterior
When to Call a Pest Control Professional
While home remedies and natural sprays can help, sometimes a spider infestation requires professional pest control. Contact a pest management professional if you notice:
- Large numbers of spiders in the house
- Venomous species like black widows around your home
- Webs accumulating quickly even after removing them
- Spiders in hard to reach areas
- Infestation persists despite your control efforts
Be sure to choose a pest control company that offers pet-friendly spider treatment options. They may use targeted spray formulas similar to home products, along with traps, exclusion tactics, and home improvements to deny spiders access.
Conclusion
Controlling spiders around pets calls for smart, safe methods. Natural sprays like essential oils, vinegar, or plant-based products allow you to eliminate spiders without putting your furry friends at risk. Combining these with pest-proofing tactics provides the best defense against recurring spider issues. With vigilance and pet-friendly products, you can safely knock out spider infestations.