While the dangers of mold to humans are well known, not many people realize that toxic mold can also endanger the health of our pets. Although only a handful of mold species are toxic to people and pets,
the most common type – toxic black mold – can bring serious illnesses and even death to people and pets.
How toxic is mold to dogs?
Moldy food can contain mycotoxins that are poisonous to your dog
. If ingested, the syndrome that can occur is called mycotoxin intoxication or mycotoxin toxicosis. Seizures and tremors are the most common symptoms. Severe cases can be fatal without treatment.
Can black mold kill your dog?
How Black Mold Effects Cats and Dogs.
Black mold may cause similar symptoms in dogs and cats as it does us
. Some pets will be more affected than others, just like it is in humans. Symptoms generally fall under three categories and include respiratory distress, an allergic reaction, and toxic reactions.
Can black mold make a dog sick?
Risk and prevention.
Dogs can have more serious health problems than some owners face when exposed to black mold
. The only way to prevent black mold exposure from recurring is to ensure the mold is completely removed. Black mold can cause serious illness in humans as well as for their pets.
What are symptoms of mold exposure in dogs?
Symptoms of mold exposure in dogs include:
Respiratory distress (rapid or labored breathing) Nasal discharge
.
Coughing, wheezing, sneezing
.
What are the signs of mold toxicity?
- sinus and nasal congestion.
- nasal irritation.
- itchy, watery eyes.
- red eyes.
- blurry vision.
- wheezing.
- trouble breathing.
- coughing.
How do you treat mold poisoning in dogs?
According to Mahaney, veterinary treatment for mold inhalation or ingestion is generally focused on
supportive care, including the management of respiratory symptoms, vomiting, and the administering of IV fluids for dehydration from gastric distress
.
What does harmful black mold look like?
Pay attention to the color and consistency: We already talked about black mold above, though it’s more accurate to say that Stachybotrys chartarum has a greenish-black hue. Toxic mold can also have
a grayish, soot-like texture, or a slimy, wet surface
. In some cases, you may even notice furry orange or brown spots.
How do you get rid of mold spores in the air?
The only way to directly kill mold spores in the air is to
use an air purifier
. For best results, place purifiers in each room of your house to ensure maximum efficiency in killing the spores. You can get a quality air purifier at any home improvement store and at most mass retailers.
How long does it take mold to make you sick?
These symptoms usually first appear
2 to 9 hours after exposure
and last for 1 to 3 days. Other affected persons have progressive shortness of breath and cough, as well as weight loss. Work-relatedness may only become apparent over long holidays if symptoms resolve and then recur on return to work.
Can you stay in a house with black mold?
Because of the risks that come with mold exposure,
it can be unsafe to sleep in a house with mold
, particularly in the affected areas because you put yourself at risk of mold allergies. This becomes especially concerning if you are sensitive to the mold.
Can dogs get sick from mold in house?
When mold is growing indoors, it’s common for mold to release harmful spores and mycotoxins into the indoor environment. When unhealthy levels and/or types of mold spores are inhaled by dogs, they can cause a number of health problems, including symptoms like: Difficulty breathing. Wheezing, sneezing, or coughing.
How can you tell the difference between mold and black mold?
While other types of mold may have a fuzzy, light texture,
black mold will usually be slimy or wet
. Some early forms of black mold have a powdery feel. Rub the mold with a paper towel to determine the texture, but be sure to wear gloves, a face mask, coveralls, and safety goggles when going near mold.
Can you wipe off black mold?
For a natural solution for getting rid of black mold,
combine one part baking soda with five parts distilled white vinegar and five parts water in a spray bottle
. Alternatively, you can use a chemical-based mold and mildew remover, all-purpose cleaners, bleach or dish soap.
Can I remove black mold myself?
Homeowners can handle cleaning about 10 square feet (roughly 3 feet by 3 feet) of black mold on their own
. If the patch is small enough, a combination of bleach, water, scrubbing, and ventilation should do the trick. Before treating mold on your own, prioritize ventilation and protective gear.
