Public News
With the start of flea and tick season approaching, pet owners are once again wondering about the safety of topical flea and tick products and many have contacted Pet Poison Helpline looking for answers. This comes on the heels of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announcing results from their ongoing review of Spot-On products, so named because they are typically applied to the back of the neck or shoulders of dogs or cats to control fleas and ticks.
If Spot-On products are safe, what do pet owners need to know?
Treatment with a fast-acting topical flea and tick medication on a pet can cause itching or brief irritation at the application site, as the product does its job and kills pests. As the animal reacts to this irritation, it can begin to fidget and scratch. For a loving pet owner, the animal’s discomfort can be worrisome, prompting concerns regarding the pet’s safety.
In addition, for some flea and tick products, a small proportion of treated animals may also develop a side effect called paresthesia – a tingling sensation at the application site. Fortunately, in the majority of cases it is a mild and self-limiting effect, but it does account for a large number of the reported incidents, and small breed dogs are commonly involved. Still, the occurrence of any adverse effect for any treated animal with a Spot-On product remains low across the board.
Advice for consumers
When applied properly to pets, flea and tick products can help protect both humans and animals from flea and ticks, but also prevent transmission of infectious diseases (like Lyme, Erlichia, etc.). Adverse reactions in dogs or cats resulting from misapplication can include skin effects such as irritation or redness; gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting or diarrhea; or more serious effects to the nervous system such as trembling, appearing depressed or seizures.
“The key to ensuring pets’ safety when using flea and tick products is to be vigilant about following the instructions on the package,” said Dr. Lynn Hovda, DVM, DACVIM, director of veterinary services for Pet Poison Helpline. “Knowing the exact size and weight of your pet and not assuming a product can be used for all types of animals is essential for using the correct medication and appropriate dose on your pet.
Dr. Hovda recommends the following tips to ensure correct use:
- Read and follow the directions on the product.
- Know the exact size and weight of your animal and use the correct dose amount. Don’t guess.
- Use a product for the animal in which the product was intended, i.e., do not use a dog product on a cat.
- Consult a veterinarian before using flea and tick products on weak, aged, sick, pregnant or nursing pets.
Always monitor your pets for signs of adverse reactions, especially when using products for the first time. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian, the manufacturer (most offer emergency medical information numbers on the label), or call the Pet Poison Helpline for treatment recommendations and general assistance.
