Fleas are a common pest for cats and dogs. If too much or the wrong flea product is applied, it can lead to flea control product toxicity. Flea product toxicity occurs when a pet ingests or absorbs a toxic amount of the active ingredient, pyrethrins, pyrethroids, and organophosphates. Products include flea topical treatments, oral medications, collars, and sprays. Signs of toxicity appear within one to 12 hours after application and may vary depending on the type of product and the ingredients involved. Cats are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of pyrethrums and organophosphates, so extra caution is needed when using these products on felines.
The most common signs of toxicity from pyrethrum-based flea products are muscle tremors and excessive salivation. Common signs of organophosphate-based flea product toxicity include diarrhea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, small pupils, muscle tremors, weakness or falling over, and drooling. Organophosphate toxicity can be rapidly fatal, depending on the ingredients and the dose to which your pet is exposed.
If you have any reason to suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or one of the other resources* listed:
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435
• Pet Poison Helpline® 24-hour animal poison control service at (855) 764-7661