Always Read Pet Labels

With cats comes fleas, by the thousands. Fleas are a major problem for cat owners. These tiny creatures can cause some for you and your cat such as anemia, dermatitis and tapeworm. Flea control is often a necessary step in keeping you and your cat healthy.

There are many flea and tick treatments out there but never ever use a product labeled “For Dogs Only” on your cat or any animal other than a dog. Dogs and cats do not react the same way to the same insecticides at the same concentrations. As an example, look at permethrin.

Permethrin is in many “Dog Only” direct application flea and tick treatments. It comes in concentrations ranging from 45-60% permethrin. While that is a very acceptable level for a canine it would most certainly kill a feline. A cat suffering from permethrin exposure would display tremors, muscle tensing and seizures anywhere from an hour to 48 hours after the exposure.

If your feline receives medical attention the odds of recovery are very high. It is crucial that you take your cat to the vet and tell them you suspect permethrin.

Read ALL the labels on things before you give them to your pet. Not sure if it’s for your pet, call the vet.

By Staff Writer Trish Harding