Expert: Walter Hintz - 3/2/2008

Question
I have a 40 year old friend who lives with her 2 year old, 7 year old, and 60
year old mother. They have three
cats (indoor) and 3 small dogs. One cat and dog in particular are old and
urinate constantly in the home (on
both carpeted and wood floors). My friend and her family have gotten so use
to this problem that at times I
have walked in, seen a puddle on the floor that has been there for hours, and
both mother and daughter had
seen the puddle but did nothing about it! And yes, the house smells terrible.

All of these people are constantly getting sick. The baby has had repeated
illnesses where his temps have
gone over 104. (I am banished from calling it the"house of ick", was rude of
me for sure). Currently the older
Mom has been diagnosed with a bacterial infection (and is now suffering
from the effects of the meds).

Here is the question:

How much could the pet urine be affecting their health? What facts about pet
urine in the home could I
present to my friend and her family to get them to understand just how
unhealthy this could be for all of
them. I worry for them, they truly are always coming down with colds,
dizziness and other types of illnesses.

Thank you.

Answer
 Hi Julie
The pet urine in itself is not a source of illness but if the people are lax in this regard then they are lax in other areas and the house is unfit for children.  I believe that you should report this situation to health department despite your friendship.  The life of the baby and 7 year old may be at stake.  You can remain anonymous if you wish