hazard record

Is Permethrin (Pyrethroid Insecticides) toxic to pets?

Permethrin (Pyrethroid Insecticides) is reported to be toxic to Cat. It is categorized as a household chemical hazard. This page is a neutral reference and does not diagnose or treat any animal.

Informational reference only — not veterinary advice, and not a diagnosis. If you suspect your pet ingested permethrin (pyrethroid insecticides), contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control center immediately. Do not wait for signs to appear.

Also known as

permethrinpyrethroidpyrethroidsspot-on flea treatment (dog)concentrated permethrin

Toxic principle

Pyrethroid neurotoxicity (cats cannot efficiently metabolize permethrin)

Possible signs to watch

These are general signs reported in the literature, not a diagnostic checklist. Their absence does not mean an animal is unaffected.

tremorstwitchinghyperexcitabilityincoordinationseizureselevated body temperature

Severity

Severe

Notes

Concentrated permethrin/pyrethroid spot-on flea-and-tick products labeled for dogs are a common and serious cause of poisoning in cats; cats should never be treated with dog products. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control line immediately.

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