When you have had a cat who lived for a long time, then waited for a while before you got the new kitten, well it really does feel like you are starting out for the very first time. I seem to have forgot all what I did for the previous kitten and somehow feel a novice this time round.

Perhaps I am just being cautious or maybe even over-protective????

Anyway my question is with regard to the washing of the floor where the new kitten is going to eat and sleep and also the kitchen floor. I have read that you shouldn't over use floor cleaners and disinfectants cos these can be hafrmful to cats.

I have also read about not using Dettol. Now is this just the old fashioned brown Dettol liquid, which when poured into water makes it go a milky colour, or is it everything with the name 'Dettol' - e.g. Dettol 4 in 1 floor cleaner and Dettol lavender fresh disinfectant?

Obvioulsy the kitten will be walking on the kitchen floor and on the floor where it's bed is, then it will be washing its paws.

Perhaps you could tell me what you use to clean your kitchen floor.

i remember being told not to use anything that turns the water cloudy. I personally use flash all purpose liquid does'nt seem to cause a problem. Then again both kitties are petrified of the mop & stay well hidden for an hour or so after i mop. If you're really worried maybe use normal dish sop, or can you shut the kitten out while floor is drying? sorry i can't be more use it's not something i've really considered before now i'm going to go read the labels!

Thanks for the quick reply.

Perhaps somewhere on the internet we might find what the bad ingredient is in the Dettol stuff which turns the water milky colour.

I presume, once the floor has dried, no harm can be caused. Is the danger only when the floor is wet because the kitten could get wetness on its paws and then decide it is time to to wash himself?

I wouldn't use anything that turns water milky even after it's dried as it can leave a residue which the cat will still get on their paws from walking on the surface.

I use Milton, it's a baby cleaning product that you can get in liquid or tablet form which I use to clean the litter trays and I make a solution of it in water and put in a spray bottle for the floors. This is stated as Pet Safe on their website and I know some breeders who use it as well. They do also do Milton spray and wipes but I only use these occasionally as the spray is very strong smelling and makes me cough.

edited to add:

Oh and it's not over-protective just protective which I dont see anything wrong with, I know a lot of people who have this 'just a cat' attitude that really p's me off but there's nothing wrong with you wanting to make sure no harm comes to your kitty

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I just found this bit of info. Apparently it is products which contain 'phenols' that turn the water cloudy which have to be kept away from cats.

Home Safe Home

This sticky is at the top of cat chat.It wont answer your immediate problem but will be of use with regards to other possible "hazards"within the home.

Household Items Harmful To Cats

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