Effects of Pyrethrins on Cats

Pyrethrins or pyrethroids are a group of six chemicals that come from a chrysanthemum flower extract. These chemicals are found in a variety of products for both dogs and cats including shampoos, flea and tick products. They're also found in insecticides that can be used in the home. Used correctly, pryethrins are safe to use on and around cats. However, incorrect usage can lead to illness or even death because the chemical targets the cat's nervous system.

  1. High Body Temperature

    • Pyrethrin exposure can often lead to an increased body temperature, which can be dangerous to a cat's health. A cat's normal body temperature is between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. A high temperature, anything between 105 and 106 degrees Fahrenheit, can lead to numerous problems, including loss of appetite, dehydration and sometimes brain damage. A cat's breathing and heart rate will also increase with a high temperature. Take an affected feline to the veterinarian immediately for treatment.

    Poisoning

    • Most pyrethrin poisoning happens when a product is used inappropriately or when a product labeled for a dog is used on a cat. It is often ingested after a cat licks the product off its fur. Poisoning can also occur if a dog that has been treated with the product containing a pyrethroid comes too close to a cat. Cats have a low tolerance to this more toxic version of a pyrethrin, which is why it is important to read the label on any product prior to use. Look for permethrin, the active ingredient in pyrethrins. If a cat is suspected to have pyrethrin poisoning, take it to a veterinarian clinic immediately for a full examination. Various drugs can be used to control the symptoms and a bath will be given to remove the remainder of the product.

    Convulsions

    • Convulsions are a common symptom that a cat might have if poisoned by pyrethrins. Convulsions, like most symptoms, will generally start between one and three hours following exposure to the chemical. However, the convulsions will continue to occur for as long as 38 hours. Bathe the cat using a dish washing detergent if the skin has come into contact with the chemical. Rinse the cat thoroughly and wrap it in a towel to keep its body temperature up. Hypothermia can cause the toxicity in the cat's body to increase. If the cat begins convulsing or showing any other symptoms of poisoning, it is important to take them to the veterinary clinic for proper treatment.

    Death

    • While many studies have been done on the effects of pyrethrins on rats, it is still unclear what a toxic or lethal dose is to a cat. Some research indicates that a topical dose of a 1 ml of a solution that is 45-percent permethrin can lead to death in a cat as small as 10 lbs. if the toxicity is not treated. Signs of poisoning occur quickly. Cats also show signs of ear flicking and paw shaking, known as hyperesthesia. These symptoms, in conjunction with others, are signs of pyrethrin poisoning and should be addressed immediately by a veterinarian.