Vets have warned that one of cleaning star Mrs Hinch's favourite products could be dangerous for pets.

Social media influencer Sophie Hinchliffe, of Essex, has previously recommended household disinfectant Zoflora as one of her top products.

Shoppers have even complained about not being able to find it on shelves - claiming Mrs Hinch is to blame as people are trying to emulate her spotless home.

But vets have warned that a detergent in the solution can be particularly toxic to cats leading to hypersalvation and inappetence.

Birmingham Live wrote recently how a vets had claimed a cat had become "very poorly" after coming into contact with Zoflora.

Some branches of the veterinary practice Vets4Pets have since shared a product warning saying the product can cause burns to the tongue and swollen paws.

But responding to the Birmingham Live article Zoflora said its products have been fully risk-assessed - adding surfaces should be completely dry before pets are allowed back on them.

Zoflora said all of its products have been fully risk-assessed
Mrs Hinch has won a legion of fans for her cleaning tips (
Image:
REX/Shutterstock)

The Veterinary Poisons Information Service told The Sun: "Zoflora contains a detergent called benzalkonium chloride which is particularly toxic in cats and can cause oral and tongue ulceration, hypersalivation and inappetence.

"Cats roam between houses and therefore it is hard to keep them away from this product when it is often used to clean patios but owners need to be aware of the risks to animals.

"They usually lick their paws if they have walked on freshly cleaned floors which then leads to signs of toxicity.

"Our advice is to use more natural products if you have pets or if your pet has been exposed to something which is potentially harmful to call Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) for advice as to what you need to do."

In response to the previous claims, Zoflora said its products have been safely used in homes for the past 100 years.

Mrs Hinch previously listed Zoflora as one of her must-haves (
Image:
Instagram)
Vets have warned the products may be harmful to cats (
Image:
Getty Images)

A spokeswoman added: "Zoflora’s products have been fully risked assessed by leading scientists at Exponent International, a long-established, independent consultancy company with expertise in all aspects of Biocidal Products Regulation and safety.

"The risk assessments conducted do not indicate a concern when the product is used in accordance with the on pack usage directions.

"Pets are required to be excluded from the area to be treated during application; cover or remove terrariums, aquariums and animal cages prior to application.

"Treated surfaces should be completely dry before pets and companion animals are allowed in contact with the surfaces. Any adverse effects should be notified to Thornton & Ross and will be shared with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Zoflora said as long as directions for use are followed their product is safe and effective (
Image:
Getty Images/Johner RF)

"Response from the Veterinary Poisons Information Service regarding the usage of Zoflora around pets also state that as long as directions for use are followed, and treated areas dried completely before animals have access to them, Zoflora is safe and effective to use.

"As with all disinfectants and other household chemicals, ensure that Zoflora is used safely.

"When correctly diluted, Zoflora disinfectant may be used where most pets are kept. It will kill bacteria and eliminate unpleasant odours.

"Do not allow pets to lick or walk on newly treated surfaces. Keep them off the surface until dry. The product is not suitable for use in vivaria or other housing where reptiles are kept. Follow the on pack instructions on dilution and usage before using the product.

"Zoflora recommends that you always read the label and product information before use."

Mirror Online has contacted Zoflora for comment on the new claims.