Flea Medication Problems

Over-the-counter flea medication has come under harsh scrutiny since 2007, when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) saw a jump in complaints about the drugs. Many pet owners have reported dangerous side effects associated with the medication. These problems can cause serious health issues for pets or even death. The EPA is looking into these problems so pets can be safe and healthy once more.

  1. Side Effects

    • There are several side effects that can be caused by over-the-counter flea medication on both dogs and cats. Generally the problem arises in spot medications that are not prescribed by veterinarians because the EPA requirements are not as strict for over-the-counter medications. The side effects typically include: vomiting, dry heaves, hives, skin burning, hair loss, seizures, breathing difficulty, loss of appetite and diarrhea.

    Causes

    • The main reason these side effects can occur is either due to improper application or from pets consuming the medication. If the pets consume the medication, more serious side effects can occur. Improper application will typically result in loss of hair or skin problems. Much of the damage occurs from loose regulations placed on over-the-counter medications, according to an Associated Press report. In 2008 there were over 44,263 reported cases of problems to the EPA. The EPA announced in 2010 that it would start requiring stricter rules on over-the-counter flea medication.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best way to prevent these occurrences is to use a prescription flea medication. According to Dr. Andrew Armani, who works at the North Bay Animal and Bird Hospital in Tampa, Florida, an easy way to prevent these problems is by switching to a pill flea medication. Armani thinks that pill flea medications have fewer side effects. You can also prevent side effects from over-the-counter applications by applying them in the correct manner. Do not allow dogs or cats to chew or lick on the medication once it is applied.

    Warning

    • Even if your dog or cat has shown none of the side effects from over-the-counter flea medication there still could be internal damage, or damage that occurs later in life. According to ABC News, some pets do not show signs of damage until they get older. It is important to monitor your pet throughout its life to ensure that any signs or symptoms are treated right away. Make sure to tell your vet that you have used over-the-counter flea medication.

    Identification

    • If your pet shows any of the side effects after applying over-the-counter flea medication, then wash it off right away. Even if your pet does not show any of the major reactions, such as dry heaves or diarrhea, you should check your pet's skin the following day. If the skin is red at the application site, or if your pet experiences unusual hair loss, wash your pet right away and do not apply any further applications of flea medication.