Is Spider Spray Toxic to Humans and Pets?
Is spider spray toxic to humans and pets?
While spiders can be found during any time of the year, you’re far more likely to encounter them in your home during the warmer months. This is because many species lay eggs that hatch when it’s warm out. And some of these may make their way into your property if it isn’t treated.
In general, spiders are helpful for controlling other insects. But when they start making your home theirs, the extra occupants can make things a little uncomfortable. In large numbers, spiders can be an irritating pest–and a scary one for many people. Spider spray and spider proofing are the most likely way to keep them out, but it’s important to be careful to apply the pesticide carefully and precisely.
Most spider sprays are toxic
Since the goal of spider spray is to kill and deter spiders, it should come as no surprise that these sprays tend to be highly toxic. Many spider sprays in NZ are made from pyrethroids, a resin that occurs naturally in dried chrysanthemum flowers. This ingredient is used in small amounts and combines with other ingredients to form a pesticide to keep spiders away.
Pyrethroid sprays are toxic to people and pets, but not as toxic as some other sprays. They can cause sickness, dizziness, headaches, and nausea and people. They can also make pets sick too. Special care should be taken if you have aquatic pets like fish, as these tend to be highly toxic or even fatal for them. You can find out more about pyrethroids in this pyrethroid factsheet.
Since spiders are much smaller than pets or people, the amounts used for total pest control are generally safe. However, you should take care to avoid the sprayed areas if possible and to keep pets away if you can.
Non-toxic spider sprays
If you’re worried about the toxicity of spider sprays, there are alternative options on the market. Some are not only nearly non-toxic, but safe for the environment too. Overall, these alternatives tend to be less effective than conventional sprays. However, there are a few options that work quite well, although these ones tend to be more on the expensive side.
Keeping people and pets safe during spider spraying
Keen to have spider spraying done but want to make sure everyone stays safe? Here are a few tips that can help:
- Cover commonly touched surfaces with a sheet, especially ones used for food prep.
- Put away toothbrushes, towels, toilet paper, and other personal items in a cabinet, drawer, or another enclosed area that won’t be sprayed.
- Move all pet food and water dishes to an enclosed area. Cover any fish bowls or aquariums, even if moving to one of these areas as an extra level of protection, due to how toxic spider sprays tend to be to aquatic life.
- Cover any cribs, cots, pillows, and bedding with a sheet that goes all the way to the floor.
- Make sure not to have your washing on the line during spraying day!
If you’re ready to get spider spraying done at your home or business, get in touch with us today for total pest control. Before we apply the spray, we’ll guide you on what you need to do to keep everyone safe and do a thorough, complete, and professional job to help keep the spiders out. Fill out the form below to get a free quote for spider spraying.