Mold and Pets: A Dangerous Combination
Preventing mold in the home is not only important for the health of its human residents, it’s also imperative for pets. Mold and pets are an unhealthy combination, just like for humans, and having the knowledge to prevent the spread of mold is paramount. Mold has a similar effect on the immune system of an animal that it does on human beings. This includes respiratory issues, skin and coat problems, and behavioral changes. If not taken care of immediately, mold can potentially become life threatening for the pets of the household.
Understanding the Risks Exposure to Mold for Pets
If an infestation of mold in the home is not addressed, there is a potentially dangerous outcome for not only human beings but for pets as well. Pets of the household are exposed to mold through the inhalation of it. The biggest danger of exposure for mold and pets is allowing them to visit damp dark places in the home, specifically after a flooding event. If there has been a recent flooding event, a household can develop mold in these areas from built up moisture. The mold buildup can be obvious if it is exposed on walls, however it can also remain hidden under floor boards and behind the walls surface. If inhaled, animals are at risk for mold illness and behavioral changes.
Common Mold-Related Illnesses in Pets
Mold and pets’ illness symptoms include respiratory, digestive and skin and coat irritation issues. Respiratory issues related to mold include symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulties, and nasal congestion. All of these symptoms are manageable in the beginning stages but can be potentially life threatening if left untreated. Skin irritation includes symptoms such as rashes and hair loss. Pets can also experience scratching and chewing; a potential warning sign of mold inhalation is excessive licking. Skin irritation could include sores, bleeding, and patches of lost fur. Finally, digestive symptoms come in the form of a decreased appetite, diarrhea and vomiting.
When to Seek Veterinary Care for Mold Exposure
If symptoms of respiratory sickness, digestive issues, and skin irritation are apparent in a household pet, owners of these animals should seek veterinary help immediately due to the danger of mold related illnesses being left untreated. The potentially dangerous outcome of mold being left untreated in pets could result in more severe outcomes, such as organ damage, serious skin issues, and neurological issues. Seek veterinary help for mold and pet illness before the symptoms reach advanced stages.
Mold and Pet Owners: Prevention Tips
Mold easily develops in houses, specifically in locations that trap moisture and stay damp. Prevention of mold in homes is possible and only takes a few steps. One of the main prevention techniques is controlling the temperature in the household. Maintaining a humidity below 60% indoors can prevent mold from developing and spreading. Another way to prevent mold is fixing leaks immediately andrepairing pipes and faucets promptly to prevent the growth of mold. Another crucial method to prevent growth of mold is ventilation. Incorporating ventilation such as using fans in bathrooms to get rid of moisture or in the kitchen to prevent moisture build up is a step that will both prevent the growth of mold and will reduce the spread if mold is already present.
Contact MSR Restoration to Safely Clean Up Mold Around Pets
Concerned about mold and pets in your home? Contact MSR Restoration for expert help. We specialize in treating large-scale residential mold infestations to mitigate structural damage, health risks, and HVAC contamination in the home. We’ll develop a tailored mold remediation plan for your home to keep the human and the furry occupants safe!
