Treatment FAQ

what will happen if you put dog flea treatment on a cat

by Aileen Reichert Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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These treatments can contain permethrin, which is toxic to cats. Permethrin poisoning causes ataxia, tremors, tachycardia, salivation, dilated pupils and seizures, which can be fatal.

Full Answer

What happens if you put dog flea medicine on cats?

Permethrin is generally used as an insecticide and is found in some flea spot-on products made for dogs, however, for cats, exposure to concentrated permethrin can result in serious illness and death. Help! I Accidentally Put Dog Flea Medicine On My Cat What should I do if I believe my cat has been exposed to Permethrin?

Why is my flea treatment not working on my Dog?

Incorrect Application of Flea Treatment Incorrectly applying topical flea prevention is the most common cause for its failure to work. Flea prevention is expensive, and you don’t want to waste a dose. Topical medication should be applied directly to the skin, not the hair.

Do I need to treat my pet for fleas?

So, it’s extremely important to treat your pet’s environment, too. And it’s not just adult fleas you need to watch out for, because they only make up less than 5 percent of the flea population. You should be treating your home for adults plus the other 95 percent—flea eggs, flea larvae and flea pupae.

Can you bathe a cat after applying flea treatment?

If you can’t bathe your cat, seek immediate veterinary attention so they can bathe your cat to remove the topical spot-on medication. Note that since the flea and tick medication is very oily, it will not come off if you're only using water or a dog/cat shampoo alone.

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Is flea treatment toxic to cats?

Cats are more sensitive to the toxic effects of pyrethrums and organophosphates than dogs, so take care when using flea control products of any type on a cat, and never use a product intended for a dog on a cat.

Why can't cats have dog flea medicine?

Cat are unable to properly process it, and because of this it can make them sick. The natural version, called pyrethrins, is used instead in products meant for cats. Both versions of the chemical are safe for dogs, but owners should still buy a separate product for each pet to assure they're giving the proper dosage.

Is cat and dog flea treatment the same?

Ingredients. The main difference between dog and cat flea prevention medications and shampoos is the main ingredient. Permethrin is a common insecticide that is found in dog flea prevention products. It can easily be confused with pyrethrin which is in most flea prevention products for cats.

What happens if you put Frontline for dogs on a cat?

0:451:45And can be lethal to your cat. So always check first and make sure you're using the right product.MoreAnd can be lethal to your cat. So always check first and make sure you're using the right product.

Can I use dog advantage on my cat?

Can I apply Advantage® II for dogs on my cats? No, do not use Advantage® II for dogs on cats.

Will dog flea shampoo work on cats?

You should avoid using dog shampoo on your cat, mainly because it may contain harmful flea medication or essential oils. If you know the shampoo doesn't contain those ingredients, you can probably get away with using it once, but it will likely dry out your pet's skin due to the pH difference.

Can you use Hartz flea and tick Spray for cats on dogs?

Help your cat companion fight pesky fleas and ticks with this Hartz UltraGuard Plus Flea & Tick Spray for Cats! This flea and tick spray kills and repels fleas and ticks for up to 7 days, plus it kills and prevents flea eggs from hatching for up to 30 days!...Specifications.Item Number145765Product FormSpray3 more rows

What to do if you use dog shampoo on a cat?

First, rinse your cat thoroughly to make sure everything has been removed from your pet. Next, check the shampoo bottle ingredients for any toxic ingredients, especially permethrin and essential oils. If the shampoo doesn't contain these, it's unlikely your cat will have a problem after using a dog shampoo just once.

Is Frontline for cats the same as Frontline for dogs?

While the ingredients are the same for Frontline for dogs and cats, the ratio of ingredients is different. Directions specify that the medicine is to only be used on the type animal the packaging is for, and that it is not to be used on rabbits or other animals.

What happens if cat licks Frontline Plus?

If an animal is able to lick the product when it is wet on the fur or scratches the area and then licks their foot, the bitter taste of the product can cause the animal to salivate, foam at the mouth, become nauseous or vomit. Also, some cats have been known to become agitated and run around the house.

Is Frontline Plus harmful to cats?

Considerations. Generally, Frontline Plus is safe for cats and doesn't cause adverse effects or interact with medications. If you're concerned about whether Frontline Plus will be safe or effective for your cat, consult your vet to discuss your treatment options.

What to do if your dog has fleas?

If any pet shows more serious symptoms after a flea treatment application, bring him or her to your veterinarian. For your pet's health and safety, avoid trying to save a few dollars by using expired medications or medications meant for animals of a different species or size.

What is the difference between flea spray and cat spray?

The difference between flea control products for dogs and cats is a chemical called permethrin. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, this chemical is very safe for dogs and is common in flea sprays and drops. Cats, though, are especially sensitive to it and many of its variants. The chemical is derived from chrysanthemum plant ...

How long does it take for a dog to drool after a bath?

PetMD noted that most symptoms resolve between 24 to 72 hours.

What is the chemical that makes cats sick?

The chemical is derived from chrysanthemum plant and appears commonly in a synthetic form. Cat are unable to properly process it, and because of this it can make them sick. The natural version, called pyrethrins, is used instead in products meant for cats.

Can you use flea treatment on cats?

But even if you only use a small dose of a flea treatment not meant for cats, you may be putting your pet at risk. It's important to buy different products to treat animals of different sizes and species, even if they all have fleas at the same time.

Can cats rub on dogs?

Also, keep an eye on cats after a dog is treated, as cats may lick or rub against the area you treated on the dog. Always be sure to buy separate and appropriate products for all your different animals. For instance, if you get Hartz® flea drops for your dog, be sure to also get the cat specific Hartz® flea drops instead ...

Can cats die from fits?

More severely affected cats, especially those suffering from fits that are hard to control, unfortunately, have a poorer prognosis and sadly may die or be put to sleep.

Can cats have a liver?

Cats lack certain proteins (enzymes) in their liver that break down some chemicals into harmless forms, which means that the chemicals can accumulate in the cat’s body and cause serious illness. It’s this difference in drug metabolism that means we should never assume a product that’s safe for dogs is also safe for cats.

Can you put flea treatment on a cat?

Some people may be tempted to save money by putting dog flea treatment on a cat or may not even realise it is an issue. You may even put it on by complete mistake, if you do try not to panic, as long as your cat is treated quickly it can be safely resolved and will not affect your cat’s health. Permethrin is generally used as an insecticide ...

Can permethrin make a cat sick?

This isn’t the case and even a very small amount of permethrin can make a cat very unwell. Poisoning can also happen through contact with a dog that has recently been treated by a spot-on product containing permethrin. The cat may rub against the dog, or even sit on the same furniture, and the permethrin can be transferred to its coat ...

Can cats get poisoned by permethrin?

Permethrin is sometimes impregnated in clothing to deter ticks, mosquitoes and flies, and though there is no evidence to show that cats have been poisoned through exposure, if there is a specific concern it’s always best to contact the manufacturer of the product.

Does Ginger Cat House replace a vet?

Ginger Cat House does not aim to replace your Veterinarian. Ginger Cat House offers practical advice but will always advise you to seek Veterinary attention for further information if your cat is unwell.

Can you use permethrin on a cat?

Fortunately, most cases of permethrin poisoning are preventable. Never use a dog product on a cat. Ensure flea treatments are solely designed for cats. Take extra care when choosing from a shop where dog and cat treatments may be displayed together. Be careful when shopping online.

What is the best flea collar for cats?

Cat safe flea and tick collars range from options that use imidacloprid (Seresto) to plant based essential oil options. Always consult with your veterinarian before using any of these options on your cat.

Why does my cat have a lot of permethrin?

The reason for this is because cats lack enzymes in their liver to effectively break down certain chemicals, permethrin being one of them. Poisoning can occur by applying a solution with permethrin on your cat, or if your cat comes in contact with a dog that has recently been treated with a permethrin-based product.

Is it safe to give cats oral preventatives?

These are both safe products for cats. Other oral products work on different flea life stages and can include brands such as Bravecto (made with fluralaner and not for use in cats) and Program (made with lufenuron, which is safe for use in cats). It should go without saying that any oral preventatives designed for dogs should not be administered to cats.

Can flea collars kill cats?

Most dog tick and flea collars contain permethrins or organophosphates and work by repelling insects. As a result, they are very toxic to cats and in some cases can be fatal. Tick-only preventative collars, such as Scalibor (Deltamethrin) or Preventic (Amitraz) are meant for use on dogs only and are lethal to cats.

Is selamectin safe for cats?

Revolution, which includes selamectin, is available by veterinary prescription only and is very safe for cats. Advantage, which is the name brand for imidacloprid, is available over the counter and is safe as long as the cat version of the drug is used.

Is Frontline safe for cats?

While dog-specific topical medications pose a significant risk to cats, there are several made for cats that are very safe. Frontline, which has a main active ingredient called fipronil, is available over the counter and is safe for cats when the cat-specific product is purchased. Revolution, which includes selamectin, is available by veterinary prescription only and is very safe for cats. Advantage, which is the name brand for imidacloprid, is available over the counter and is safe as long as the cat version of the drug is used.

Can cats take Permethrin?

Even a small dose of permethrin can adversely affect your cat’s health. Permethrin exposure affects a cat’s nervous system and can cause the following symptoms: If you believe your cat has been exposed to permethrin, contact your veterinarian immediately or take them to an emergency veterinarian.

How to apply flea treatment?

How to Apply Each Brand of Topical Flea Treatment 1 Hold the tube upright and turn the cap one full turn. 2 Make sure the seal is broken but DO NOT remove the cap. 3 Cats: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply the entire tube to the skin. You can apply to a second spot directly behind the first if there is overflow. 4 Dogs: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply to the skin; do this in one or more spots depending on the size of your dog. For larger dogs, choose two or three spots along the spine to continue the application.

How long do fleas live in the environment?

Flea eggs and larvae can live in the environment for days or weeks. It is best to regularly vacuum all the locations of your home where your pet spends time, wash all bedding in hot water, and keep your pets on flea prevention.

How many active ingredients are in flea prevention?

Flea preventions typically use one or two active ingredients to do the job of preventing fleas. Each brand will use different active ingredients, and these ingredients will work in different ways to prevent fleas. An overdose for most flea preventions could result in the following: Profuse drooling. Vomiting.

How to apply Bravecto to cat?

Bravecto. Hold the tube upright and turn the cap one full turn. Make sure the seal is broken but DO NOT remove the cap. Cats: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply the entire tube to the skin. You can apply to a second spot directly behind the first if there is overflow.

Where to apply hair spray for dogs?

You can apply to a second spot directly behind the first if there is overflow. Dogs: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply to the skin; do this in one or more spots depending on the size of your dog. For larger dogs, choose two or three spots along the spine to continue the application.

Can you treat fleas in your home?

Your Home Hasn’t Been Treated for Fleas. In conjunction with topical flea treatments, you need to treat your home to provide the best defense against fleas. Most flea preventions do not repel fleas. Flea preventions kill fleas either by direct contact with the fleas or from the fleas feeding on your pet.

What to do if you accidentally put flea and tick medication on your cat?

If you accidentally applied dog flea and tick medication to your cat, contact your veterinarian, an emergency veterinarian, or an animal poison control center immediately . The sooner you treat it, the less poisonous it may be and the less expensive it may be to treat.

What are the signs of poisoning in cats?

As a result, cats develop poisoning when exposed to these chemicals. Signs of poisoning in a cat can be severe and include the following: Agitation. Drooling or vomiting (typically due to grooming the product off and tasting the bitter chemical) Lethargy. Facial twitching.

What is the best treatment for cat tremors?

Hospitalization. If your cat has clinical signs (e.g., tremors, seizures), hospitalization is a must to stop the tremors with muscle relaxants (e.g., methocarbamol) or antiseizure medication (e.g., phenobarbital, valium). These medications should only be administered by a veterinarian, unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.

Can flea and tick spray be used on cats?

These chemicals are very safe for dogs, but should never be used for cats.

Can you use flea and tick medicine on dogs?

When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian about the safest type of flea and tick medications to use on your cats and dogs. If you own both species, you should separate your dog from his buddy cat until the spot-on product is completely dried so you can prevent chemical exposure to your cat.

Can you bathe a cat?

Keep in mind that cats are very hard to bathe at home, and when in doubt, you should never put yourself (or your cat) at risk of harm. If you can’t bathe your cat, seek immediate veterinary attention so they can bathe your cat to remove the topical spot-on medication. Note that since the flea and tick medication is very oily, it will not come off if you're only using water or a dog/cat shampoo alone. Your cat should be bathed with a mild liquid dish soap (used specifically to wash the dishes in the sink) such as Dawn.™

Is it safe to spray fleas on cats?

Other sources of these chemicals include household insect sprays and topical flea sprays and shampoos; however, these are typically in very low concentrations (<1% pyrethrins or pyrethroids) and are generally safe for cats and dogs.

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