5 Best Pet Safe Mosquito Spray for Yard (Definitive Buying Guide)

Picture this: it’s a beautiful summer evening, and you’ve just finished setting up your outdoor space for a cozy night with your furry friend. The only problem? The mosquitos won’t leave you both alone!

It can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but options are available to help you and your pet enjoy the great outdoors without pesky mosquito bites.

In this article, we’ll be showcasing the best pet-safe mosquito sprays for your yard to help you make an informed decision and enjoy your summer nights without any unwanted visitors.

Our Top Pick

Greenerways Organic Mosquito Repellent, our top recommendation, revolutionizes your mosquito management both indoors and outdoors.

This all-natural, biodegradable repellent is crafted from organic ingredients, offering a safe and effective barrier against mosquitoes, ensuring their safe deterrence.

While this repellent works splendidly across a wide range of mosquito species, its effectiveness might diminish with larger and more aggressive breeds. Therefore, it’s most suitable for common household mosquitoes and smaller species.

Are you seeking a more eco-friendly, DIY approach? Then our comprehensive ‘DIY Ecofriendly Mosquito Spray Guide’ is designed just for you. Loaded with easily implementable strategies using common household items, this guide assists you in addressing your mosquito problems confidently and sustainably.

Buying Guide

Mosquito sprays for yards are insecticides that are specifically designed to repel and kill mosquitoes in outdoor spaces, such as backyards and gardens. These sprays can come in various forms, such as sprays, foggers, and granules, and are typically applied to areas where mosquitoes tend to congregate, such as around standing water and vegetation.

If you’re unsure about what Pet Safe Mosquito Spray for your yard entails, the following buying guide can help you navigate the various factors to consider before making a purchase.

• Active Ingredients: The active ingredients are the first thing to consider when purchasing a mosquito spray. Look for sprays that contain natural ingredients like citronella, eucalyptus, and peppermint oil. These are safe for pets and humans and effective in repelling mosquitoes. Avoid sprays containing harmful chemicals like DEET, as these can harm pets and the environment.
• Coverage Area: Another factor to consider when purchasing mosquito spray is the coverage area. Make sure to choose a spray suitable for your yard’s size. Some sprays are designed for smaller areas, while others are suitable for larger outdoor spaces.
• Application Method: Mosquito sprays come in various forms, such as sprays, foggers, and granules. Consider the application method that is most suitable for your needs. Sprays are easy to apply and can be sprayed directly on the area that needs protection. Foggers are great for larger areas and provide wider coverage. Granules are ideal for treating large areas of the yard and can be easily sprinkled around the perimeter of the yard.
• Effectiveness: When purchasing a mosquito spray, make sure to choose one that is effective in repelling and killing mosquitoes. Look for products that have been tested and proven to be effective in repelling mosquitoes.
• Pet Safety: If you have pets, it’s important to choose a mosquito spray that is safe for them. Look for products specifically designed to be pet-friendly, and avoid products containing harmful chemicals.

1. DIY Mosquito Spray Recipes: Bite-Free Summer Guaranteed!

This innovative guide equips you with the necessary skills to build your own eco-friendly mosquito sprays right in the comfort of your home.

Designed with an emphasis on environmental sustainability, this guide promotes the use of natural ingredients, ensuring the protection of your loved ones and pets from potential harm.

The guide offers an adaptable approach, catering to your specific requirements. It leads you into understanding the mosquito problem you’re dealing with and offers tools to concoct the perfect solution.

The essence of this guide lies in its comprehensive discussion of essential oils, their properties, and how they can be used as natural repellents.

Ranging from Citrus-Based Mosquito Sprays to Cinnamon and Clove Mosquito Sprays, there’s a wealth of options suitable for different mosquito species and preferences.

A notable feature of this guide is its affordability. Most of the necessary items are everyday household ingredients, making this an economical and easily implementable solution.

While the outcomes may take more time to manifest than chemically-induced repellents, the spray recipes provided have undergone thorough testing to ensure their effectiveness.

Detailed instructions on the application and storage of these sprays ensure you get the most out of each concoction.

Beyond just providing spray recipes, this guide also extends valuable knowledge on preventive measures, aiming to keep your living spaces mosquito-free after each application.

Customer Reviews

Ever since its launch, the DIY Guide on Building Eco-friendly Mosquito Sprays has consistently been met with positive reviews from consumers.

The guide has been celebrated for its in-depth content, emphasis on safety, and insightful advice on ethical sourcing.

Users have commended it for providing effective homemade solutions, with one client highlighting their success with a Citrus-Based Mosquito Spray.

Many have praised its focus on sustainable and safe practices, essential in protecting both the environment and their families.

However, several users have remarked that the preparation of the sprays requires some time, basic DIY skills, and the acquisition of certain ingredients.

A few found that certain ingredients can be challenging to source locally. Despite this, the guide offers alternative solutions and encourages flexibility in ingredient combinations.

Despite these small hurdles, a great number of users have found the guide incredibly helpful, leading them to recommend it to others looking to handle mosquito problems in an eco-friendly way.

The guide has not only given them knowledge and skills but also instilled in them the confidence to tackle mosquito control in a more sustainable and cost-effective way.

Instructions to Use

1. Download the guide from our website.
2. Read through the guide to understand the process of making DIY mosquito sprays.
3. Source the ingredients mentioned in the recipes.
4. Follow the instructions to make your chosen mosquito spray.
5. Test the spray in a small area before full application.
6. Store the spray as advised in the guide.
7. For any doubts, refer to the FAQ section or contact us directly.

Get the DIY Mosquito Spray Recipes: Bite-Free Summer Guaranteed! on

2. Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent

This spray is made using natural active ingredients. These ingredients are clove bud oil, thyme oil, cedar oil, peppermint oil, wintergreen oil, sesame oil, and rosemary oil.

It is very effective in repelling mosquitoes and also other pests such as beetles, flies, ticks, wasps, ants, fleas, yard fleas, spiders, roaches, cabbage worms, aphids, snails, caterpillars, and other insects.

While this spray does not kill any target pests on contact, it works by repelling them within just a few minutes. The spray gives a slight smell, which is not unpleasant due to the number of active ingredients, but also dissipates very quickly.

Similarly, no residue is left behind; hence, the pets or even the plants that come in contact won’t be harmed after drying.

Customer Reviews

The Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent has gained popularity for its ability to eliminate mosquito infestations, but customer reviews have been mixed. While some customers have had negative experiences with the product, others have found it useful in controlling insect populations in and around their homes.

Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent is a great choice for those looking for an all-natural, non-GMO, DEET-free bug spray. It comes in a 3-pack deal with one 2oz, one 4oz, and one 16oz bottle, making it easy to take with you on the go. The scent is pleasant and not overpowering, and it works well to keep mosquitoes away. However, some users have reported that it does not work as well against other bugs, such as horseflies, and that it can cause skin irritation in some people. Additionally, some users have reported that the spray bottles can be difficult to use and leak.

Overall, Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent is a good choice for those looking for an all-natural bug spray.

Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent is a great bug spray for those looking for a natural, non-toxic solution to keep mosquitoes and other bugs away. It comes in a 3-pack deal with 1 2oz, 1 4oz, and 1 16oz bottle, making it easy to take with you on the go. The spray has a pleasant lemongrass scent and is safe to use on kids and pets. However, some users have reported that the sprayer on the smaller bottles can leak, and the scent can be overwhelming for some.

Additionally, some users have reported that the product does not work as well as expected and may even attract bees. Despite this, the repellent remains a popular choice for many consumers looking for an all-natural insect repellent that is safe for the environment and their families. As with any product, it is important to read and follow the instructions carefully to ensure that it is used properly and effectively.

Instructions to Use

1. Shake the bottle well before use.
2. Hold the bottle about 6-8 inches away from your skin or clothing.
3. Spray the repellent evenly over exposed skin and clothing, avoiding contact with eyes and mouth.
4. Rub the repellent into your skin for better absorption.
5. Reapply the repellent every 2-3 hours or as needed, especially if you are sweating heavily or if you have been swimming.
6. After use, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
7. Store the repellent in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

Note: If you are using the repellent on children, apply it on your hands first and then rub it onto the child’s skin. Do not use the repellent on infants under 6 months of age. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare provider before using the repellent.

Get the Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent on Amazon or Walmart

3. Bonide 680 RTS Mosquito Beater

Bonide Mosquito Spray is a powerful solution that targets mosquitoes, flies, and gnats in your backyard, providing long-lasting protection against these insects. It contains a blend of natural oils and other safe and effective active ingredients, including cedar oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, lemongrass oil, and sodium laryl sulfate.

Please note that this spray is intended for outdoor use only and should not be applied indoors. One bottle of Bonide Mosquito Beater can effectively treat an area of over 5,000 square feet, making it an ideal choice for large outdoor spaces.

To use, simply apply the spray to the affected area and allow it to dry for up to two weeks for maximum effectiveness. With coverage of up to 5,000 square feet, a single bottle of Bonide Mosquito Beater can last for months if your lawn is smaller than 5,000 square feet. Say goodbye to pesky mosquitoes and other flying insects with Bonide Mosquito Spray.

Customer Reviews

The Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent has gained popularity for its ability to eliminate mosquito infestations, but customer reviews have been mixed. While some customers have had negative experiences with the product, others have found it useful in controlling insect populations in and around their homes.

Bonide Mosquito Beater is a ready-to-spray insect repellent that kills mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. It provides long-lasting control outdoors and is easy to use. Many users have reported that it works well and is effective for up to a week per spray. However, some users have reported that it did not work for them and that it can be dangerous for pets and people. It is also important to note that the active ingredient is highly toxic to honeybees.

Overall, it is a good product, but it may not be the best option for everyone. It is long-lasting and can provide control outdoors. However, it may not be effective in all cases and may not last as long as advertised. It is also important to note that it contains Permethrin, which can be harmful to frogs and toads.

Instructions to Use

• Make sure your pets are out of the area before you begin spraying, even though it is safe for them.
• Attach a garden hose to the ready-to-use bottle of Bonide.
• Spray the solution around shrubs and plants in areas where mosquitoes are present.
• Try to target any moist areas in your garden, as mosquitoes tend to accumulate around moisture.

Get the Bonide 680 RTS Mosquito Beater on Amazon or Walmart

4. Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray

The Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray by Wondercide is a non-toxic mosquito yard spray approved by the EPA for safe outdoor use. It is uniquely formulated as a natural and organic mosquito spray for the yard and is effective against other pests such as flies, gnats, etc.

One of its standout features is that it creates a repellent barrier around the yard’s perimeter to prevent pests from entering and biting you and your pets. The spray’s active ingredients are organic cedar oil, water, and ethyl lactate, making it completely organic and toxin-free.

It comes in a 32 oz. bottle that can treat an area over 5,000 square feet and can be easily applied by attaching it to a garden hose. The spray is also safe to use directly on plants.

Wondercide specifically targets mosquitoes, but it can also work against other pests. This product has one particularly great feature. Spaying it around your yard’s perimeter creates a repellent barrier that prevents pests from entering your yard and biting you and your pets.

The EPA approves Wondercide, and it is safe to use outdoors only.

Customer Reviews

The effectiveness of Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray in eliminating mosquito infestations has made it a popular choice on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Walmart. However, customer reviews regarding the product have been inconsistent.

While some users have reported positive experiences with the product, others have found it ineffective in controlling insect populations in and around their homes. It is important to note that results may vary depending on the severity of the infestation and the specific environment in which the product is used.

Wondercide – Ready to Use Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Yard Spray with Natural Essential Oils is a natural pest control solution that has gained popularity due to its environmentally friendly nature. The product is easy to use – simply attach it to your water hose and turn on the spout. It has a pleasant scent that is reminiscent of cedarwood and is safe for pets and children.

It is particularly effective against mosquitos and ticks but may not be as effective against fleas. However, some customers have found it to be expensive for how often it needs to be applied, and some have reported that it does not work as advertised. Additionally, there have been reports of skin irritation caused by the product.

Overall, customer reviews for Wondercide – Ready to Use Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Yard Spray with Natural Essential Oils have been mixed. While it is a great natural alternative to harsh chemicals found in pest control, it may not be the best option for everyone. It is important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a purchase.

Instructions to use

1. Shake the bottle well before use to ensure that the ingredients are properly mixed.
2. Connect the spray nozzle to the garden hose by turning it clockwise until it is securely in place.
3. Turn on the water and adjust the water pressure to suit your needs.
4. Squeeze the nozzle’s trigger to spray the Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray.
5. Apply the spray evenly to the area you want to treat, making sure to cover all surfaces thoroughly.
6. For best results, apply the spray during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, when insects are most active.
7. After application, wait at least 4 hours before letting children or pets back into the treated area.
8. Repeat the application as needed, typically every 3-4 weeks or after rainfall, to maintain a pest-free outdoor space.
9. After use, turn off the water and disconnect the spray nozzle from the garden hose.
10. Store the Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

Get the Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray on Amazon or Walmart

5. Vet’s Best Yard and Kennel Spray

Introducing Vet’s Best, the natural and safe solution for flea and tick control in your yard and kennel. Unlike harsh chemicals in typical insect sprays, Vet’s Best is a smart alternative worth the extra investment. This powerful spray is perfect for treating and preventing fleas and ticks in your yard, garden, and lawn without zappers or foggers.

Vet’s Best is made from nature’s most potent plant extracts, including a unique blend of Peppermint Oil and Eugenol from the Clove plant. This exceptional formula can treat and cover up to 5,000 square feet, making it the most convenient and effective spray for your surroundings. You only need to apply it once a week, making keeping your outdoor space flea and tick-free easy.

This spray is odorless and non-staining, making it safe for pets, kids, and beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Vet’s Best is also not harmful to trees, shrubs, and flowers. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and switch to Vet’s Best for a natural, safe, and effective flea and tick control solution.

Customer Reviews

The Vet’s Best Yard and Kennel Spray have become popular for their ability to eliminate mosquito infestations, but the reviews from customers are mixed. While some users have reported negative experiences with the product, others have found it useful in controlling insect populations in and around their homes.

One customer said, “I sprayed my yard and kennel with this product and noticed a decrease in mosquito activity, but it did not completely eliminate them. However, it did kill fleas and ticks, and the peppermint scent was pleasant.”

The Vet’s Best Flea, Tick Yard, and Kennel Spray are plant-safe and easy to use. It comes with a ready-to-use hose attachment and uses certified natural oils to kill mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. It has a pleasant clove smell, but some users have reported that it may not work as well as expected and can be expensive to use.

Another customer added, “The sprayer leaked a little, but the product itself is effective in killing fleas and mosquitoes. However, I found that it may not work as well in areas with a lot of ticks.”

It is essential to note that the product is not suitable for indoor use and must be reapplied after rainfall. Although it may not work as effectively in humid areas and may not last more than a day, the product is plant-safe and safe for pets.

In summary, the Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Yard and Kennel Spray is a useful yard treatment spray that provides good value for the money. It has a natural peppermint scent and is easy to use, but it may have limitations in certain areas. It is a good product worth considering, but following the instructions carefully and using the entire bottle for optimal results is essential.

Instructions to Use

To eradicate any pest infestation, you will need to use the spray twice on all infested areas. This includes lawns, patios, yards, and indoor areas. The best time frame to do this is within 2-10 days.

Starting from the top and working your way downwards is important when using the spray. Begin by spraying from your garden, and then move on to your fence. This will ensure that you cover all areas and eliminate any pests effectively.

To prevent future infestations, apply the spray once every 30-45 days. Consistency is key here, so it’s recommended that you use the product continuously for one year to achieve the best possible results.

By following these instructions, you can rid your property of pests and keep them from coming back.

Get the Vet’s Best Yard and Kennel Spray on Amazon or Walmart

Mosquitoes: A Concern for Your Family’s Safety

Mosquitoes can be a menace to any outdoor lover’s life since these pests can change even the most idyllic situation into one akin to a seething trial of discomfort and irritation.

You may be surprised to learn that mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous predators on earth. Every year mosquitoes kill more humans than any other animal on the face of this planet.

Mosquitoes are carriers of some of the world’s most dangerous infections, and their spread can lead to pandemics.

Read More: Why Mosquitoes exist?

For instance, diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Zika virus are all spread via mosquitoes feasting on the blood of humans.

Humans cannot escape mosquitoes. The excretions of carbon dioxide coming off the human body pull mosquitoes towards them. Body warmth also acts as a sensor directing mosquitoes towards skin which they can pierce to draw blood.

Even though mosquitoes only have a life span of 2 to 3 weeks, they can cause havoc on human life. What makes their control especially difficult is their incredibly rapid rate of breeding. In favorable conditions, female mosquitoes are known to lay hundreds of eggs.

All they need is to suck blood for nutrition and lay their eggs on water.

Is Your Dog at Risk from Mosquitoes?

Mosquito bites can cause itching and scabs and transmit pathogenic diseases to dogs. They are susceptible to the West Nile virus and Heartworm, with over 250,000 dogs infected annually in Canada alone and the disease confirmed in all 50 US states.

While dogs cannot contract the Zika virus, it’s crucial to use pet-safe mosquito-repellent products. Opt for those containing essential oils such as neem, lemon, eucalyptus, and citronella. Remember that not every bug repellent is safe for dogs, so choose wisely when selecting a product for use in the yard.

Keeping pets safe is just as important as ensuring proper diet and exercise. Pet owners know how hard it is to keep their loved ones healthy and happy, and protecting them from mosquito bites is essential. When pets are exposed to a mosquito invasion in the backyard, precautions should be taken to avoid bites and the transmission of disease.

Fortunately, many pet-safe mosquito repellent products are available. However, it’s essential to use a product that is safe for dogs, as not every mosquito and bug repellent suitable for use around people is necessarily safe for pets. Pet owners can help keep their furry friends safe and healthy by selecting an appropriate product and taking precautions.

Are Repellents Pet-Safe?

A debate exists as to whether mosquito repellent sprays are safe for use around humans, their pets, and children. Although a majority of sprays available on the market are very efficient in their action against driving away mosquitoes, it is unclear how safe they are in terms of toxicity.

Pets are particularly exposed to toxic insect repellent sprays as they are in the yard more often than you are and may wander into areas where the spray has been most concentrated. Some pet advocates believe mosquito bites are not as bad as exposure to toxic chemicals.

However, everyone mosquito bite puts your pet at risk of contracting a seriously deadly illness. Mosquito control is an important consideration and cannot be neglected. Keeping mosquitoes out of your yard prevents people and animals from getting infected by a mosquito-borne disease.

Another negative aspect of using chemical insecticides outdoors is the terrible and pungent smells they leave behind as a residual effect. The smell acts as a major inconvenience if someone likes to spend time outdoors or wants to host guests in their yard.

Chemical insecticides are not only poisonous but they can cause allergic reactions on the skin, even pets can develop rashes.

If you don’t want to use toxic sprays, you can also use a mosquito zapper.

Backyard Mosquito Spots

A backyard can be heaven for mosquitoes to breed. When you look closely at your backyard, you will find everyday items lying around that may seem harmless but can be potential breeding spots for mosquitoes.

So, before you can start taking action to kill the mosquitoes, try to locate, find and remove breeding grounds to avoid further mosquito infestation.

Mosquitoes lay eggs on the surface of still and stagnant water.

These eggs hatch a few days later and soon enough, they mature into adults ready to suck blood from humans and pets.

A few places which need to be checked for mosquito nesting in the backyard are:

• Gutters or Open Manholes
• Buckets or Open Containers
• Toys
• Puddles
• Tires
• Potted Plant Trays and Saucers
• Plastic Covers
• Tarpaulin

All these places should be checked thoroughly. If you find larvae or eggs in such an area, discard water quickly because mosquito larvae cannot survive without water.

Spraying Insecticide Over A Yard

The best way to control mosquitoes in a yard is to attack their breeding ground with the help of mosquito sprays that work outside the house.

However, using a spray for mosquito control can be a dilemma for homeowners with pets.

Many high-quality products are available today that can ward off mosquitoes from a yard without harming your pets’ health. A number of these spray products contain ingredients that are eco-friendly and biodegradable.

For a product to be considered safe to use in the yard around pets, it must be non-toxic and biodegradable. It should not risk the lives or health of any living being, either an animal or a plant. Likewise, a spray should ideally not leave behind an unpleasant chemical odor in the yard after use.

All it requires is to spray an effective insecticide over the foliage and grass in any yard. The insecticide will kill not only the mosquitoes, but some products are effective against a number of other insects as well.

Mosquito-killing sprays are usually sold in the form of 16 oz. to 32 oz. bottles, which may not be enough to cover large yards. If you don’t have enough spray for the entire yard, focusing on first attacking potential mosquito breeding grounds is recommended.

Pet-Safe Insecticide Ingredients

Insecticides naturally derived from the chrysanthemum flower are Pyrethrin insecticides, whereas their more potent synthetic derivatives are called Pyrethroids.

Although similar in origin, Pyrethrin and Pyrethroids vary from each other in concentration, effectiveness, and toxicity. Generally, pyrethrins and pyrethroids are considered safe for dogs but toxic to cats and fish. However, the toxicity to a cat or a dog is also relative to the product being used. Various products come in different concentrations of pyrethrin or pyrethroid ingredients.

Let us take a look at the active ingredients most frequently found in mosquito sprays for yards. A detailed look can reveal their effectiveness, toxicity levels, and environmental impact. Some noteworthy ingredients used in products for mosquito control in yards are:

Natural Oils:

Natural oils such as Peppermint oil, Lemongrass oil, Citronella oil, Cedar oil, Lavender oil, Clove oil, etc., are very effective in their action as all-natural plant-based eco-friendly insecticides. They not only provide protection against mosquitoes but a number of other pests as well.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate:

Sodium lauryl sulfate is a very safe, natural and non-toxic ingredient that acts as a very powerful insecticide. Usually, insecticides it is combined with potassium sorbate and sodium chloride. Sodium lauryl sulfate is effective against mosquitoes and other insects such as spiders, gnats, and bed bugs.

Lambda-Cyhalothrin:

Lambda-cyhalothrin is a synthetic pyrethroid active ingredient used in insecticides. Even though it is completely chemical, the compound is low in toxicity and relatively eco-friendly. For mosquito control, Lambda-cyhalothrin is highly effective and its action against insects lasts for up to 4 to 8 weeks after the initial application.

Gamma-Cyhalothrin:

Gamma-cyhalothrin is a synthetic chemical that is the most active member of the pyrethroid family. It is used as an active ingredient in a broad range of insecticides and is far less toxic and environmentally damaging than many other insecticides.

Alternatives To Mosquito Control for Yard

Biological control is by far the safest, most eco-friendly, and non-toxic way of repelling mosquitoes from a backyard. All this approach requires is to grow plants that keep the mosquitoes away from the backyard.

Plants can be great natural mosquito repellents!

Plants such as Garlic, geranium, basil, catmint and catnip, lavender, clove, mint, lemongrass, and citronella are all natural repellents of mosquitoes. These plants act as a biological barrier by releasing scents that naturally ward off mosquitoes and a number of other pests from the backyard, thereby reducing potential insect infestations.

The scents emitted by the plants also create a masking effect where the mosquitoes are unable to detect human presence. The smell of skin, sweat, and carbon dioxide is hidden by the potent smells of the plants.

In a backyard pond, you do not need to empty it but simply pour essential oils over it so mosquitoes cannot lay their eggs on its surface.

Otherwise, any open container which contains stagnant water should be emptied or removed. Similarly, you may introduce a natural predator of mosquitoes to your pond, such as Gambusia, also known as the mosquito fish, as it feeds on mosquito larvae.

Final Thoughts

Since your pets may spend more time outdoors than you do, their exposure to mosquitoes and the chance of being bitten is greater. Choosing the right product for mosquito control is a crucial step to help protect dogs and cats from mosquito bites.

Read our recent article on mosquito sprays if you need a mosquito spray for indoor use.

Frequently Asked Questions