A vet has issued a stark warning to pet-owners thinking about using Zoflora, the popular cleaning product, heavily endorsed by Instagram cleaning personality, Mrs Hinch.
The cleaning expert has influenced thousands of people all over the UK to get their hands on the bleach product, thanks to using it in many of her tips.
But now Vets 4 Pets in Hull is warning pet-owners after they claim a cat became 'very poorly' after it was thought to come into contact with Zoflora.
Taking to their Facebook page, they wrote: "Please take care when using any cleaning products around your pets.
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"We have a very poorly cat in with us today who has come in to contact with Zoflora. After consulting with the Veterinary Poisons Information Service, they have advised us that it is quite a common phone call they now receive regarding this product.
"The little cat is on a drip and has burns to his tongue, etc, and swollen paws. Please take care when using any cleaning product and ensure that animals do not have access to it or lick or roll in any of the residue.
"We are aware that the packaging states it is safe to use around pets but please take precautions. As this product is aimed at pet owners, we are sharing this case."
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However, a spokesperson for Zoflora responded to the vets' claims, telling Birmingham Live the brand "has been used safely in households for almost 100 years, including those with pets in the home."
They continued: "Zoflora's products have been fully risked assessed by leading scientists at Exponent International, a long-established, independent consultancy company with expertise in all aspects of Biocidal Products Regulation and safety.
"The risk assessments conducted do not indicate a concern when the product is used in accordance with the on pack usage directions.
"Pets are required to be excluded from the area to be treated during application; cover or remove terrariums, aquariums and animal cages prior to application.
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"Treated surfaces should be completely dry before pets and companion animals are allowed in contact with the surfaces. Any adverse effects should be notified to Thornton & Ross and will be shared with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
"Response from the Veterinary Poisons Information Service regarding the usage of Zoflora around pets also state that as long as directions for use are followed, and treated areas dried completely before animals have access to them, Zoflora is safe and effective to use.
"As with all disinfectants and other household chemicals, ensure that Zoflora is used safely.
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"When correctly diluted, Zoflora disinfectant may be used where most pets are kept. It will kill bacteria and eliminate unpleasant odours.
"Do not allow pets to lick or walk on newly treated surfaces. Keep them off the surface until dry. The product is not suitable for use in vivaria or other housing where reptiles are kept. Follow the on pack instructions on dilution and usage before using the product.
"Zoflora recommends that you always read the label and product information before use."
A second vets has since urged pet-owners to make sure they use Zoflora, according to the instructions on the packaging.
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East GrinsteadVeterinary Hospital took to Facebook to warn customers: "The Veterinary Poisons Information Service have issued advice regarding Zoflora cleaning products.
"We are aware that the packaging states that it is safe to use around pets but please take precautions. The product can cause burns to the tongue and swollen paws. This commonly happens when your pet walks on a wet floor or licks a wet surface. So the best advice given is to let the surfaces fully dry and follow the correct dilution rates.
"Unfortunately this has been flagged by an increase in incidents."
The vets later added: "This product is safe to use if used correctly and instructions are followed."
Featured Image Credit: Zoflora/PexelsTopics: Life News, Mrs Hinch, Home, Real