Come join the discussion about breeds, training, kittens, food reviews, rescues, and more. there are some that are not egregiously expensive. Their purpose is to soften fabrics and remove static. If your cat has ingested fabric softener, call your veterinarian immediately. Fun/play (cats often enjoy the texture) Teething in kittens. Many cats love to snuggle up in warm, clean laundry, where they might find a random dryer sheet to lick or eat. lynnette79. I never used dryer sheets before and now I wish I never started using them. eyJtZXNzYWdlIjoiY2ZlMGZmMWI3NzgzNmYyNjA2ZWQ2YzQwODc0N2I4YTA0 Residual chemicals may be enough to cause irritation to your cat's skin and mouth as a result of self-grooming. Certain cat breeds, such as the Siamese and other Oriental cats, will be more inclined to lick fabric. All chemicals in the home should be stored out of reach and, if possible, behind closed doors. Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. Another chemical found in dryer sheets is fragrance. The caustic chemicals can lead to irritation and ulceration in the mouth and GI tract. MWM3NDY2N2EyYjc1MTEzYzE1NWM1MzJiYzQ3ZDk5MDc3Y2RjODQ2NWIzZGIw Some of these signs can only be determined by your vet, so if you suspect your cat has eaten a dryer sheet, its best to take it to the vet right away for diagnosis and treatment. Dryer sheets are not meant to be wiped on animals. NmQ2NmI2ODQ1MjhkNDY2OTgyMDAyYmU1ZTJiOTg0YmE1MzljMzlhNzlmYzk4 Residual chemicals may be enough to cause irritation to your cat's skin and mouth as a result of self-grooming. I never used dryer sheets before and now I wish I never started using them. No. You might have heard of people using dryer sheets to remove dead hairs from their cats' coats and reduce shedding. Scrub Away Stuck-on Food from Pots and Pans. MjhmOWE1YzRkNDUzMDhmZTM1YTI1OWM3NDk0Y2YzNDRhMzRkYzAwZDhkNGEx You should also avoid using fabric softener on any pet bedding, as the chemicals can be transferred to your cats fur and skin. Your vet may need to get in touch with animal poison control to find out more about the toxicity of that specific brand. In addition, some of these chemicals can lead to lung damage, central nervous system depression, and acute kidney disease. Gather all the details to share with the vet, such as the brand of the chemical, the time your cat ate it, approximately how much was eaten. Depending on the situation, your vet may recommend you bring your cat into the animal hospital for treatment. Yes I read that then I read another report on about I think it was that said it was ok. Every conversation I read about digressed off topic or got hijacked and noone ever really answered the question. This is because your blanket carries your scent, making her feel safe and secure. Exactly this. Milk is also often used to coat the cats esophagus, which helps to reduce the burning caused by the chemicals and helps the pain your cat is in. Cats are expressive animals and, Is it possible to make a cat even more adorable? Learn more. Privacy Policy. People with pets like dogs or cats may have noticed that their little friends like to play with dryer sheets that they find in the laundry room, a laundry basket or just generally floating around the house or apartment. Among these are fabric softeners, both in dryer sheets and liquid formulation. -----END REPORT-----. Accidents like this are hard to get over. First, the ingestion of the dryer sheet material may result in gastrointestinal obstruction. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. 1. Wool dryer balls are made from 100% wool and dont contain any toxic chemicals. You should never use dryer sheets when drying a cat bed (or any pet bedding for that matter). Yes. If your cat is extremely content, she may lick the blanket. This helps us offset the costs of running this site, so thank you for your support! OGI0Yjk1NTMyMTgwZTA3MTJjYzIxMmYzODFhYjI0NDMxZWY2NDRhZmI0MTk2 I am so sorry. About TheCatSite.com. Better yet, fold and put away fabric items right after they come out of the dryer. I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix. I have had a couple of cats that liked to eat cobwebs. 1. The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa. Generated by Wordfence at Mon, 1 May 2023 7:48:34 GMT.Your computer's time: document.write(new Date().toUTCString());. Within 20 angry, distrustful minutes he had vomited his entire stomach contents into the bathtub. If you think that your cat ate a dryer sheet or drank some liquid fabric softener, it is essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. Cationic products such as benzyl acetate, benzyl alcohol and chloroform applied to dryer sheets to release softness and fragrance onto drying clothes were never intended to be ingested by cats. If you are concerned, just rewash the clothes. NGI5MjQ1OTQ4YTgzZDUwNjczMjUwNDU5NDBhNTU5MjJkYTBkZmE5NTYyMjZj A blockage in the GI tract can lead to serious illness and even death. Try to bring the fabric softener packaging so your vet can determine exactly what your cat ate. Ingesting fabric softener can be dangerous for cats, as it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Waiting on bowel movements but this just happened. Put on gloves and found the bits that looked like they could be dryer sheets - they looked more like mucous. Curious cats are persistent and tend to get into places where they don't belong. MzQ1MDViYyJ9 MTY5MDc3MzNkOTEyNzRhN2FhODNjZTYxYmMwMjQ3Zjc0YzcxYWZhMmIxZjQ1 Many cats love to snuggle up in warm, clean laundry. Also, a cat that eats a dryer sheet ingestion may develop gastrointestinal obstruction. So he isnt going to be around them anymore that also mean my dog doesnt play in them either. I advise everyone to keep dryer sheets away from your pets. Whether in liquids or dryer sheets, fabric softeners contain chemicals called cationic surfactants. Is Pet-Safe Ice Melt Really Safe for Pets. NTM0MGU4ZjY4N2FlNWM1MGU4NzY1Yzg2MGUyZjExNTNkOGZhZmQyZjdhNDI1 NGQwMGViMjM1NjBjYWY1ZjZmZjJmMDA0ZDhhZDMyNzVhYzI2MDY2ZmVhYzkz By the time you put the clothes in the dryer, they all have clumps of fur sticking to them, but they are small due to the water. They can, however, be used to remove pet hairs from our clothes and upholstery (yay!). Another way in which they come into contact with them is when, as stated before, owners, following advice from different internet articles, may decide to rub a dryer sheet on their pets fur to get rid of static or loose hairs. I'm really worried if he's going to get sick from this. If you think that your cat ate a dryer sheet or drank some liquid fabric softener, it is essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. It's no secret that comfort-loving felines are naturally attracted to the warmth associated with laundry pulled fresh the dryer. The chemicals and detergents in dryer sheets are harmful to dogs in large quantities or with prolonged exposure. Secondly, the chemicals in fabric softeners can cause irritation to the skin, mucous membranes and stomach lining. Y2VlNTJkOWNjNzg1NTk0MWU5MmUzMmNhMTc4YjNiZGY3MTQ2N2U5ZWRlZDQ0 In concentrated amounts, the damage may be serious and appear as burns or ulcers. 1 For some god awful reason my cat LOVES dryer sheets..we always try to keep them away and throw them away after a load of laundry. (Some say even mice). YTdmYTEzYTZjMTk1Yzg1Y2RiNjE2M2JhZWU1NDNmMzEzNTc3ZTViYmRhNTYw The dryer then puffs these clumps up and thats when you notice them. Featured Image Credit: Noah Rolseth, Shutterstock. 8 Reasons for This Behavior, Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food? Ive cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Dryer sheets are semi-rough, smell good, and slide around easily on hard flooring. I heard some heavy breathing and found the cat with a dryer sheet lodged in his throat. Heres what you need to know about the dangers of dryer sheets for cats, and what to do if your pet has eaten one. Note: If you click some of the links or pictures in this article we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. YWYxNjZjN2I1MGYyZWZlN2JmZDc4ZWYwY2Y5ZmE2YWRmNDE5ZDk4N2ZkODRj My sweet boy Frankie passed away this morning from ingesting dryer sheets. JavaScript is disabled. Don't use fabric softeners on your cats bedding as the residual chemicals can still cause problems. Gather all the details to share with the vet, such as the brand of the chemical, the time your cat ate it, approximately how much was eaten. A forum community dedicated to breeds of cat owners and enthusiasts. With prompt treatment, your cat can make a full recovery and find something safer to chew on. If your cat licks the residue of a dryer sheet off her fur through grooming, she could end up with mouth ulcers, a swollen tongue, or acute stomatitis. This condition is seen in humans, cats, dogs, and other animals. You may even find that adding clean tennis balls to the dryer works well to soften fabrics. If your cat ate a dryer sheet, she may have an upset stomach or even intestinal blockages. MzQ1ODVlYWNhMzFjOWZiYzVkYzFhNjlhNDZhMDJhNjEwMDY2YTIzYjBjYWY1 If you do not have a laundry room with a door that closes, then the chemicals should be secured up high and behind secure cabinet doors. Dryer sheets also contain synthetic materials, which dont break down in your cats gastrointestinal tract. It is best to keep your cat from bonding with your clean laundry by closing the door to the laundry room or the area in which you are sorting and folding laundry. My cats used to do the same, but I don't use the dryer sheets any more. My husband and I just adopted a new cat, and we're still figuring out the little habits he has. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. If your cat ate a dryer sheet, she may have an upset stomach or even intestinal blockages. Unravelled them, stretched them out and made the puzzle with the piece I had gotten earlier. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. It is possible that your vet will be able to recommend home treatment, but it is more likely that you will need to visit the vet in person. 180 Count (Pack of 1) 4.7 out of 5 stars 2,474. . In serious cases, the ingestion of these harmful chemicals can lead to organ damage or central nervous system depression. A blocked GI tract can lead to serious illness and even death. NWY2MTMxOTg5NWJlMjQ1ZWEwOTU4YzEyOGE2ZGIxZjg5OTczNTUwZGQyODYx "Natural" and environmentally friendly products, although potentially leas harmful, are not necessarily safe. Many cats love to snuggle up in warm, clean laundry. Answer (1 of 8): I am pretty sure there are chemicals in that stuff, so you should not let them do it. NmEyZjEyN2M1NzZkYjMwZmM5MTViMjM2ZTJlOWVkY2E5YzZkYzAzOGJiYmY1 MjZlMmUxZGQyNzY2MGUzNjk4Y2JiZWI2N2M1ODYwODRiYjFhMTlkYjA3ZGYw The hilarity of the moment might be replaced with concern when you consider the amount and types of chemicals applied to dryer sheets to accomplish their intended purpose. Still noone is telling me WHY they like it. Curiosity. Keep the washer and dryer doors closed at all times. What Chemicals in Dryer Sheets Could Be Harmful to Cats? Steroid Alternatives for Itchy Skin in Cats. (Photos were taken, ew). Cats love to bury themselves under recently dried clothing, towels and blankets in an effort to soak up the heat. Enzymes are proteins that can help to remove stains from clothes. ZDg5YzdiNTgwNDFjMTU5ZmYxYjEiLCJzaWduYXR1cmUiOiI0Zjg1MTZhNzUx Unravelled them, stretched them out and made the puzzle with the piece I had gotten earlier. I always dry my cat separately on high and never have issues like op. He doesnt eat them he just plays with them My dog does the same thing just rolls and rolls on them. While drooling, appetite loss and oral burns are among the first outward signs that kitty's tangle with the dryer sheet is causing health problems, chances are very good that a trip to the veterinarian will reveal further difficulties from the exposure. 16. ozzie510 1 day ago. Tward425 2 days ago. MTY2NzJhOWFmNjVlMTFjMGVkM2JjNzcwNzc3OTg3YmQzMDMwZmEyNmIzMWYy If you believe Wordfence should be allowing you access to this site, please let them know using the steps below so they can investigate why this is happening. OWU3YzQ4OTA2YjJmYjI3YmM3ZGNkNWM4NmQwODUwZjVkYmIzZDBhNTJiZjJm If your cat is exposed to any of these chemicals (via licking or chewing dryer sheets) then call your vet to discuss. TheCatSite.com is a community of cat lovers dedicated to quality cat care and cat welfare. Mjg0Y2E5M2UzZGI4NjY5MjA0MTkzMzQ0ZjZiZDM5ZjMxNTY5N2I3ODNkZTAz But why are they toxic to pets? So be careful of not leaving used or unused sheets around the floor of your house or apartment. In many cases, GI obstructions need to be removed surgically or via endoscopy. Cationic (positively charged) elements added to dryer sheets and fabric softeners can cause drooling, appetite loss, oral burns and stomach pain in dogs and other animals as well, but is even more dangerous for cats, whose digestive systems are much more sensitive. Yes if you use a pet-friendly fabric softener. Secondly, the chemicals in fabric softeners can cause irritation to the skin, mucous membranes and stomach lining. Here are the signs that may indicate your cat consumed a dry sheet. However, the dryer sheets you use are toxic to your feline pal. and our MzJiZjczZWRhMWY0NzY1ODk1NzJmNDY3NDA3MWU3YjI4ZGM5ODQ0MTQ1MzRk ~ Unknown Author, Alkitotle aka "Alkee", "Lambie" (July 2/04 - Oct. 2/15) -- white Devon Rex. Apr 28, 2015 at 3:23 PM. If I would of known this would of never happened. The chemicals coat fabrics to reduce static cling and soften their texture. However, dryer sheets only contain small amounts of chemicals, and licking them will likely not hurt your cat. Its important to keep dryer sheets away from your cat and to always follow the label instructions when using any cleaning product. There are many hazardous chemicals and dangerous items in the average household. Also, a cat that eats a dryer sheet ingestion may develop gastrointestinal obstruction. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. NWIxYTQ5NzE0MzcwYjAzMTg0ZTA4OTY1MmQ2ODZmYjkyNWU4NGNmMWEwNTY1 This is a fact! All the cats I have ever had love to play with dryer sheets. When people come round she jumps on your knee and licks away leaving a big sopping wet area. If youre looking for a pet-safe way to reduce static and wrinkles in your laundry, consider using wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets. A blockage in the GI tract can lead to serious illness and even death. the tallow is what attracts them, and that wouldn't be so bad in and of itself, it's the other chemicals that are hazardous. Additionally, ingested used dryer sheets can still lead to intestinal blockage. These can soften fabrics in the dryer without chemicals. Any afvice? Low temp tumble for the cat. Unfortunately, some of those ingredients are benzyl alcohol, camphor and even chloroform. These products are designed to be safe for both animals and humans. Your cat might find a random dryer sheet to lick or eat. When she is happy and settles down to sleep she starts licking our bed linen and sheets for ages and leaves it sopping wet. NmIzMGNlNWJiZDU5NzM1ZmQzYTRiODMzOGE1NjhkYTQ5Y2VmMTY2ZDdkYTJk They do the same thing you described, and I don't wash them in anything. Since they become so light after being used and may even float around the house, pets become very attracted to their playful nature. I usually grab a clean damp rag and wipe the surface (sheet, sofa, etc) with it to get the cat fur off. Why Would a Cat Eat Liquid Fabric Softener? NmExZjVmYWI5MDA4ZjU2ZmFmNzZhZjNlOGUxMzIyZDJlYTM2NTkxYzNiMmNm These same chemicals that are in high concentrations on the dryer sheets can harm your pet; especially if they chew or ingest a sheet. Has anyone else had this happen? And, are dryer sheets a safer alternative? Some pet owners even like to use dryer sheets to remove loose hair from the backs of their pets and reduce static when low humidity is an issue. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Watching your kitty roll about, attacking a dryer sheet wrapped around her body, may be a laugh-inducing scene. Dryer sheets and fabric softeners usually contain harsh chemicals called cationic surfactants. It was torn to pieces, not sure if she did it with her teeth or with her claws. It looks like most of it is still there, so she didn't eat the whole thing. Some owners have reported kidney failure in animals that have ingested dryer sheets. How Many Bettas Can Live Together in the Same Tank? What Should I Do If My Cat Ate a Dryer Sheet? He shredded it so whatever he did manage to eat is in small pieces. OWU4YTZjZDIxYWVkNjFiM2M3NTQ0NjQ5ZTNhNTFkYTAwYjcyODFjNzRhMDZl However, they can also cause skin and respiratory irritation in cats. ZTFlMDYwMGQ2NTM0NDZhYTE4NWEyNmVhMTQ2ODI0ZjU0MmNlNjBlOWVlNDgx If the dryer sheet was used, the presence of cationics is greatly reduced, but still a possible health risk. Keep the washer and dryer doors closed at all times. Eating paper is a form of pica in cats and there are some possible reasons for it. Dryer sheets can even be used to keep mosquitoes away! But animals lick their fur and the areas . We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. ZGMzNzYyZjdiYTM2N2QxODdiYzA3Yjc1NTI5YTRmNDI1NmQxZjIyNzg0Mjc3 they still might not be good for your cat, but if there's no tallow then the cat probably won't be so attracted to them. The jury is still out on why cats like dryer sheets. Pets are a part of the family and as such pet owners like to take care and precautions with them. My cats love to play with hair ties. Dryer Sheets and Pet Dander There is a well-meaning but dangerous tip on the internet about using dryer sheets to remove loose hair from cats or dogs and to reduce natural static when the humidity is low. According to the Spruce, dryer sheets used to reduce static cling can harm a. 4. Never try to induce vomitingthis may increase the irritation to the esophagus and mouth. Cats are typically very sensitive to chemicals, and those in fabric softeners are no exception. If youve ever caught your cat licking or chewing on a dryer sheet, you may be wondering if its harmful. OGQ5OGE2ZjNmOTE5NzVkNDM4MWEzZmE1YWY1MTI0MjBjOTc3YzdkZWQxMDZh MjQwOTUxOTIwNWJjZGY3OTQyNzhmODYwYjc2ZTQzOWE0ODJjMzc1ZWUzYjcy Armstrong grew up on a dairy farm in western Washington and wrote agricultural news while in college. Your cat is extremely sensitive to chemicals, to begin with, and the chemicals in your average dryer sheet are no exception. If you must use fabric softener on pet bedding, be sure to use a pet-friendly product. NDFhMmNhZDRiYmYwZGVhNTA5ZWY0NzYyYmQzMzg1NGVkOWEzYjczOWVlMjI2 You may think that something like a dryer sheet is safe, but it is actually a very dangerous thing for your cat to eat. Is It Ok for Cats to Play with Or Chew Wool Dryer Balls? It seems to only happen when she is happy and beginning to settle to sleep. That's why you should keep clean laundry out of reach and dispose of used dryer sheets in a place where your cat can't find them. Additionally, ingested used dryer sheets can still lead to intestinal blockage. Should I Use Fabric Softener when Washing a Cat Bed? . NDIzNGQwMGYzMDc4YzA4ODg2NDI1ZWNmOWM1NGE1MzA3Mjg3ZmEyZGQ3Mzc4 Click to get it NOW! If you must use fabric softener on pet bedding, be sure to use a pet-friendly product. We got a kitten in March. MTAyMTBlZWM3OTUyMGNiZjg3ZDM4YWUxMGJjZWVhOWQzMzM5OTM5OWRjYmI4 Some cats are attracted to the scent of the product, while others may be interested in the taste. Some even use a dryer sheet on their pets' fur to remove static buildup. These procedures can increase the risks to your cat's health. We all know that cats can get into anything, even stuff we thought we had put out of their reach. My sweet boy Frankie passed away this morning from ingesting dryer sheets. In many cases, GI obstructions need to be removed surgically or via endoscopy. Whole dryer sheet retrieved! Kidney failure is also one of the problems that can occur after ingestion of dryer sheet chemicals. If your cat vomits, has diarrhea, or seems to be in pain, take her to the vet immediately. The toxic elements easily transfer from foot and body to mouth, which is a more direct and more toxic method of exposure than merely rubbing the dryer sheet against the body, creating exposure through the skin. They were both siamese mixes. NTFiOWI1ODlhMjc5MzRmOGZlMDc1YWQwMjcwZjBmNzQ0MWUzNWZhZTNhMmIx Boredom. In many cases, GI obstructions need to be removed surgically or via endoscopy. What You Need to Know. The chemicals coat fabrics to reduce static cling and soften their texture. YTRjYmY0YWM0MDg2ODZhMWM5YWQ5N2U5OWFmMzI3NGYxYWRlMTNhNWIxOThk The silicone coating on the dryer sheet will help soften the food. If you suspect your dog chewed on used dryer sheets of caught him in the act, the following are the symptoms you will notice and should look out for: Tenderness around the abdomen Fatigue or drowsiness Prolonged sleep patterns Difficulty in passing stool Loss of appetite Continual vomiting Diarrhea to the point of dehydration Lack of interest The Merck Veterinary Manual warns that cats suffering from exposure to cationics can experience a swollen tongue, depression, abdominal discomfort and increased respiratory noise within six to 12 hours after ingestion. Its also not a good idea to let your cat interact with the clothes coming out of the dryer since they may have traces of chemicals on them. That includes toxic chemicals, toxic plants, and even dryer sheets. First, its important to understand how a dryer sheet works. They should still be kept out of the reach of all pets in the home. Cat Hair Remover Sheets - Pet Hair, Lint, Glitter and Pet Fur Removal Tool for Furniture, Clothing, and Car Interiors (50 Sheets) 4.4 out of 5 stars 960. He was in a lot of pain before he passed on. The same paws that play with the dryer sheet are the ones kitty licks and brushes across her fur when primping. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. There are many hazardous chemicals and dangerous items in the average household. 13. Patricia is also a published author under the pen name Skylar McKinzie. I love you Frank.. and I'm so sorry for the pain I caused you. MDM0MjVjNDE4MTA3MmZlNmY2MTk5OGFlOTJhZThmNTk1YmQ2ZTllMWQ5MmI0 Your access to this site was blocked by Wordfence, a security provider, who protects sites from malicious activity. "There are no ordinary cats. Dr. Bartley Harrison is a veterinarian with more than 15 years of professional veterinary experience treating dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, birds, and small mammals, with a specific focus on Emergency Medicine. 6. NWI5ZDM5Yjk1ZTQzMzkzYWFkNmQxZTA3YjIxNDJlNTNjMDg3ZmMzYTkzMzdi Im so, so sorry to hear this. Amy M. Armstrong is a former community news journalist with more than 15 years of experience writing features and covering school districts. Apr 28, 2015 at 3:23 PM. Additionally, ingested used dryer sheets can still lead to intestinal blockage. Unused dryer sheets are definitely a greater threat since they still carry most of these chemicals, but even used ones are a problem. YjU2YjA4MGYzYmY4MGQ4MGQzNDRiYjY3YThiMDJiNGQyOTVhMmZhYTEwMWQz Depending on the situation, your vet may recommend you bring your cat into the animal hospital for treatment. Your vet may need to get in touch with animal poison control to find out more about the toxicity of that specific brand. Even though the word "cationic" begins its spelling with kitty's common namesake, that doesn't mean this element is friendly to your feline friend's digestive system. Ran to the store to buy hydrogen peroxide, asked the nice lady at the pharmacy for an oral syringe, came home and administered 12 mL (he's a big boy!) He was in a lot of pain before he passed on. They should still be kept out of the reach of all pets in the home. Both of these features make dryer sheets very dangerous to cats. These procedures can increase the risks to your cat's health. N2MyOWVkZTJkYzU3OTNjYzkzNmM4ZGJhYjU0ZGM3ZjgwNmNmNTQ4OWU5M2Yx The sheet wasn't used in laundry, because I had it on my turtle's tank to keep gnats from getting in and the sheet has been on that tank for a couple months. The problem isn't the dryer, it's the washing machine. Just the thought of them playing and doing what kittens, There are times in life when you might need to travel with your cat. Should I Use Dryer Sheets when Drying a Cat Bed? These products are designed to be safe for both animals and humans. Better yet, fold and put away fabric items right after they come out of the dryer. Bounce's own product literature cautions pet owners to keep dryer sheets away from animals to avoid accidental ingestion. "~ Colette, "A loving cat can mend a wounded heart." A cat experiencing a negative reaction to dryer sheets should receive prompt veterinary care to prevent the toxic elements from building up in her system, leading to advanced symptomatic conditions such as coma, seizures, muscular weakness and collapse. She has received more than 40 awards for excellence in journalism and photography. Get Our #1 Easy, Homemade Dog Food Recipe (Vet-Approved), 100% Free!!! Dryer sheets and fabric softeners usually contain harsh chemicals called cationic surfactants. MTM3NGYzYmFhNTFlYjJjOGRkOTc5MzBiOGY4MjQwMzhmZjJiMmJkZGViYzIy They're terrific, although they can leave the clothes a little staticy compared to dryer sheets but I work with it. MmJkODk4N2U5MjlkYTI3YWM5ZWQ4Yjc3ODAwM2I1NDg0MzRkMzMwN2VkYWU5 If you do not have a laundry room with a door that closes, then the chemicals should be secured up high and behind secure cabinet doors. If you must use dryer sheets, be sure to keep them away from your cat. Describing Cats - What Does My Cat Look Like? My sweet boy Frankie passed away this morning from ingesting dryer sheets. Finally, follow these tips to keep your cats safe in the laundry room: store laundry products out of reach, keep the door to the laundry room closed, and use pet-safe laundry products. You can try using a pet-safe fabric softener when washing your cats bedding.