Is Gentrol IGR Concentrate Safe to Use Around Pets?

Gentrol IGR Concentrate by Zoecon is generally considered safe for use around pets when it has dried completely, but pets should never come into direct contact with the wet product or the application process. IGR stands for "insect growth regulator," which means this product disrupts the life cycle of pests like cockroaches, fleas, and flies to stop them from maturing and reproducing. It does not kill adult insects directly, and it's not a traditional poison.

The active ingredient in Gentrol IGR—hydroprene—is designed to be effective in very small amounts for insects and is less toxic to people and animals than many other types of pesticides. Regulatory agencies, including the EPA, have evaluated it for household use and have found it to be of low risk when used as directed. However, “low risk” does not mean “no risk.” While large accidental exposure is rare, direct contact, licking, or ingestion before the product dries can lead to health concerns such as mild skin, eye, or digestive irritation for some animals.

Once the product has dried on treated surfaces, it is considered unlikely to transfer enough chemical to pose harm. Still, extremely sensitive animals or those with certain health conditions could theoretically have a mild reaction even to dried residues, though this is rare.

In summary, using Gentrol IGR Concentrate according to its label and basic precautions allows you to treat pest issues while minimizing hazards to pets. The risk is considered very low, especially after the product is completely dry, but, as with any chemical, absolute safety cannot be guaranteed for every individual animal. If you have animals with known health sensitivities, consult your veterinarian.