Fabuloso is a widely used household cleaner known for its bright colors and strong, pleasant scent. Many pet owners love how it leaves their homes smelling fresh—but if you share your space with a curious feline, you may be wondering: is Fabuloso safe for cats?
The short answer is no, Fabuloso is not considered safe for cats if ingested, inhaled in large quantities, or if your cat comes into direct contact with recently cleaned surfaces. While it may not be instantly toxic in all cases, it contains chemicals that can be harmful to your pet’s sensitive system.
This article explores the potential dangers of Fabuloso, how cats can be exposed to it, and safer cleaning alternatives that keep both your home and your furry friend healthy.
What Is Fabuloso Made Of?
Fabuloso is a multi-purpose cleaner with several ingredients that are effective for household cleaning but can pose risks to pets. Common ingredients include:
- Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (a surfactant for removing grease and grime)
- Fragrance and colorants
- Citric acid
- Preservatives like methylisothiazolinone
- Neutral pH agents
These chemicals help make Fabuloso effective at cleaning, but they’re not pet-friendly—especially in concentrated form or if left on surfaces that pets walk on, lick, or sniff.
Why Fabuloso May Be Harmful to Cats
Ingestion Risks
Cats are notorious for licking their paws after walking on recently cleaned floors. If they step on a damp surface where Fabuloso has been used, they can ingest the cleaner while grooming. This may cause:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
Ingesting larger amounts may lead to more severe symptoms that require veterinary attention.
Inhalation of Fumes
Fabuloso has a strong fragrance that can linger for hours. While humans may find this pleasant, it can overwhelm a cat’s sensitive respiratory system. Prolonged inhalation of these fumes may result in:
- Sneezing or coughing
- Watery eyes
- Wheezing or labored breathing
- Aggravation of asthma (in susceptible cats)
This is particularly dangerous in small or poorly ventilated spaces.
Skin or Paw Irritation
Direct contact with freshly mopped floors or sprayed surfaces can cause paw pad irritation or skin sensitivity. Cats with allergies or skin conditions may be especially vulnerable.
Toxicity If Concentrated Formula Is Consumed
If a cat accidentally drinks concentrated Fabuloso or licks a spill, the risk of poisoning increases significantly. You should call your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately in such cases.
What To Do If Your Cat Is Exposed to Fabuloso
If Ingested
- Rinse their mouth with water using a damp cloth (do not force water into their mouth)
- Monitor for symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or lethargy
- Call your vet immediately if symptoms develop or if your cat drank a concentrated solution
If Inhaled
- Ventilate the room immediately by opening windows and doors
- Remove your cat to a clean, fresh-air environment
- Watch for breathing issues—if your cat wheezes or shows signs of distress, call your vet
If Stepped On or Touched
- Wipe their paws with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe to remove any residue
- Avoid letting them groom until you’re sure the cleaner is removed
- Keep cats away from wet floors until fully dry
Is Fabuloso Ever Safe for Use Around Cats?
Fabuloso should never be used directly on or near cats. However, if you still choose to use it in your home:
- Dilute it properly as directed on the label
- Keep pets away during and after cleaning until surfaces are fully dry
- Use in well-ventilated areas only
- Store bottles securely and clean up spills right away
Still, the best option is to avoid using strong-scented cleaners altogether if you have pets.
Pet-Safe Alternatives to Fabuloso
If you want to clean your home without worrying about your cat’s health, consider switching to pet-friendly cleaning products.
Vinegar and Water
A simple 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water works well on floors and surfaces. It’s non-toxic and deodorizes naturally.
Baking Soda
Great for removing odors and safe around pets. Sprinkle it on carpets or litter box areas before vacuuming.
Castile Soap
An olive oil-based cleaner that is safe for both pets and humans when properly diluted.
Pet-Safe Commercial Cleaners
Brands like Seventh Generation, Better Life, and Nature’s Miracle offer pet-safe household cleaning products.
Steam Cleaning
Using a steam mop on floors can sanitize without the need for chemicals at all.
How to Clean Safely in a Cat-Friendly Home
- Always mop or wipe down with plain water after using any cleaner
- Don’t allow pets back into the room until floors or surfaces are dry
- Avoid cleaning litter boxes, food bowls, or bedding with chemical-based cleaners
- Use unscented or low-fragrance products when possible
- Test new cleaning products on small areas first and observe your pet’s reaction
FAQs About Fabuloso and Cats
Is Fabuloso toxic to cats?
In large amounts, yes. Even small exposure through licking, inhalation, or skin contact may cause mild to serious health issues in cats.
Can I mop with Fabuloso if I have a cat?
Only with caution. Make sure surfaces are completely dry before your cat walks on them, and always ventilate the space well.
What happens if a cat licks Fabuloso?
It could lead to drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. If symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Is the smell of Fabuloso bad for cats?
Yes, strong scents can irritate a cat’s respiratory system. Cats have sensitive noses and may develop coughing or sneezing from strong fumes.
What cleaning products are safe to use around cats?
Look for cleaners labeled “pet-safe” or use natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, or diluted castile soap.
