Archive for June 19th, 2009
EPA is reviewing the safety of some “spot-on” flea and tick treatments
We just saw a troublesome report about liquid flea and tick treatments that you apply between the shoulderblades of your pet.
The active ingredients in many of these treatments are basically pesticides – insecticides that kill fleas and ticks.
Following a recent increase in reports of adverse reactions among pets, the Environmental Protection Agency has intensified its scrutiny of the products, warning pet owners that the treatments may have serious, even fatal, side effects.
Cats are particularly sensitive to an insecticide called permethrin, the active ingredient in some spot-on flea and tick treatments. According to a study published online in The Veterinary Journal, cats overdosed with permethrin insecticides can suffer tremors, seizures, excess salivation, vomiting, loss of appetite and death.
The E.P.A. is investigating a large number of anecdotal reports involving both cats and dogs who received spot-on treatments and suffered problems like skin irritations, hair loss and tremors.
At this point, the E.P.A. has not recommended a recall. However, the E.P.A. analysis may lead to changes in regulations. The results of the E.P.A. review are expected to be announced by October.
According to E.P.A. spokesman Dale Kemery,“It could be that we’ll require changes in labeling or formulaic changes. And it could go as far as canceling a product.”
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