The Side Effects of a Tick Collar

Many types of products can be used on pets to rid them of fleas and ticks. Only one choice should be used at a time so the pet does not overdose on pesticides. Many chemicals in tick collars can cause major health problems in pets and their owners. Children and adults who play with their pets are at the greatest risk of pesticide poisoning. Chemicals such as Propoxur, Selamectin and Tetrachlorvinphos are extremely toxic. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, between 2003 and 2008, 1,600 pets died from brain damage, heart attacks and seizures brought on by chemicals in flea and tick products.

  1. Allergic Reaction

    • Allergic reactions can occur suddenly or gradually over time. Watch for difficulty breathing, swelling of lips, tongue or face, hives or seizures.

    Drug Interaction

    • Do not use collars or other flea and tick products on pets that are taking other Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, such as Anipryl, selegiline and tricyclic. Other medications; clomipramine, Clomicalm, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and meperidine, should also not be used in conjunction with a flea and tick collar due to adverse reactions.

    Skin Redness and Irritation

    • Flea and tick products are administered directly onto a pet's body. The chemicals in these products spread through the pet's skin and pores. This process can cause irritation anywhere on the pet's body. Watch for excessive scratching and check the collar area frequently. If skin is red or your pet has been scratching excessively, immediately remove the collar and bathe your pet with mild soap. Rinse with large amounts of water.

    Immediate Effects

    • A collar that is too strong for your pet can bring on an immediate reaction that may include vomiting, diarrhea, trembling, seizures and labored breathing.

    Irreversible Damage

    • Pesticides may put kids and pets at risk.

      A recent study by the Natural Resources Defense Council showed that the pesticide residue from a flea and tick collar is up to 1,000 times higher than the levels acceptable to the Environmental Protection Agency. Some pesticides found in flea and tick collars can cause damage to the brain and nervous systems as well as cancer in pets and humans. Children are at the greatest risk because their systems are still developing.