Are Insecticides in Flea Medications Bad for Cats?

Some flea medications, particularly those found over the counter in grocery stores, contain pesticides that can be harmful to cats. The Humane Society warns that cats do not have the enzymes necessary to properly metabolize or detoxify harmful insecticides.

  1. Types

    • Types of insecticides to look out for when reading flea control product labels are pyrethroids, carbamates and organophosphates. This includes carbaryl, propoxur, malathion, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, naled, tetrachlorvinphos, dichlorvos and phosmet.

    Effects

    • Harmful insecticides in flea control products can cause seizures, skin irritation, skin burns, heart attacks, brain damage and even death. After applying flea control products, watch for symptoms like excessive salivating, vomiting, diarrhea, pupils that are dilated and shaking.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Consult with a veterinarian to determine which flea medications are best for your cat. If you notice symptoms of insecticide poisoning after administering a flea medication, take your cat to a veterinarian immediately and report your experience to the National Pesticide Telecommunications Network, says the Humane Network.

    Considerations

    • While some flea medications contain harmful insecticides, there are also safe and effective medications for your cat. As an alternative, you can control fleas with regular use of a flea comb on your pet and frequent vacuuming of your home.

    Warning

    • Do not apply canine flea control products to your cat. While the insecticides in these products may be perfectly safe for dogs, they are not formulated for cats and can lead to sickness or death.