Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Signs and outcomes of permethrin poisoning in cats
By Sutton, Nicholas M et al.Ā·Published in Journal of Feline Medicine and SurgeryĀ·2007Ā·Veterinary Poisons Information Service, Medical Toxicology Unit, Avonley Road, London SE14 5ER, United Kingdom, United KingdomĀ·View original on Crossref ā
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Original publication title: Clinical effects and outcome of feline permethrin spot-on poisonings reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), London
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A group of cats experienced severe symptoms after being exposed to permethrin, a flea treatment meant for dogs but toxic to cats. Most of the affected cats showed increased muscle activity, including twitching and convulsions, which lasted for an average of 39 hours. While most cats recovered within 2 to 3 days, some took up to a week, and unfortunately, about 10% did not survive. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to a permethrin product, it's crucial to seek veterinary help immediately.
People also search for: cat permethrin poisoning symptoms Ā· what to do if my cat has flea treatment for dogs Ā· cat twitching after flea treatment
Abstract
Permethrin is a pyrethroid insecticide used in dermally applied spot-on flea treatments for dogs. Permethrin-based spot-on preparations are contraindicated in cats because of the high risk of toxicosis. The Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) is a 24-h access telephone service that provides veterinary professionals in the United Kingdom with information on the management of poisoned animals. In a review of 286 cases reported to the VPIS regarding inappropriate feline exposure to permethrin spot-on (PSO) preparations, 96.9% were symptomatic. Increased muscular activity (as evidenced by twitching, tremor, muscle fasciculations or convulsions) was common and occurred in 87.8% of cases. The duration of increased muscle activity was long, with convulsions lasting on average 38.9 h and tremors 32 h. Recovery typically occurred within 2 to 3 days but in some cases took 5 to 7 days. Death occurred in 10.5% of cases.
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Search related cases āOriginal publication on Crossref: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfms.2007.05.003