Most cat owners have had to deal with fleas at some point. The itching associated with fleas can be annoying, and they are also capable of spreading diseases. While there is a wide variety of products available to treat your cat for fleas, it is important to recognize that some of these products can be harmful to your cat if used improperly.
-
Symptoms
-
Symptoms can vary in cats that have been poisoned by flea treatment. Common signs include tremors in the muscles, seizures, excess production of saliva and wet, runny eyes. In some very severe situations, the cat may fall into a coma or die. Since the cat is likely to lick its coat after the application of the flea repellent, it is important to apply the proper dose and make sure you read the product's label and instructions thoroughly. If the cat is acting strangely, make sure you call your veterinarian immediately.
Considerations
-
If your cat is pregnant, old , a kitten or has any underlying conditions, you should not use any flea repellent without consulting a veterinarian first. Another common mistake is to use flea medicine created for dogs. These insecticides for dogs are very different than the ones designed for cats and even a small dose of certain ones can be lethal for cats. Even products labeled "all natural" have side effects on some sensitive cats. Once again, be sure to read the label thoroughly.
Chemicals
-
Two products that are especially dangerous to cats are organophosphate insecticides and permethrin. Organophosphate insecticides are one of the most commonly used insecticides, but cats are very sensitive to them. While very few products for cats contain organophosphate insecticides, they are widely available in flea repellent for dogs. Also, permethrin is often present in products made for dogs, but even a small amount of it is deadly for cats. It is important to be aware of the active ingredients in all flea repellent before use.
-