What will happen if a dog licks off flea and tick drops?

What are Flea and Tick Drops?

Active Ingredients

Flea‑and‑tick spot‑on products contain chemicals that kill parasites on contact. The most common active ingredients include:

Imidacloprid – a neurotoxin that blocks nerve signals in insects, causing paralysis and death.
Permethrin – a synthetic pyrethroid that disrupts sodium channels in arthropod nervous systems.
Fipronil – a phenylpyrazole that interferes with GABA‑gated chloride channels, leading to hyperexcitation.
Spermicide (e.g., lufenuron) – an insect growth regulator that prevents development of flea eggs and larvae.
Afoxolaner, Fluralaner, Lotilaner – isoxazoline compounds that inhibit GABA‑gated chloride channels in ticks and fleas.

If a dog licks the treated skin, these substances can be absorbed through the oral mucosa and gastrointestinal tract. Systemic exposure may produce:

Neurological signs such as tremors, ataxia, or seizures, especially with imidacloprid or permethrin.
Gastrointestinal irritation manifesting as vomiting or diarrhea, commonly linked to fipronil ingestion.
Dermal reactions like redness or swelling, occasionally occurring after oral exposure to isoxazolines.

The severity of symptoms depends on the amount ingested, the specific compound, and the animal’s size and health status. Immediate veterinary assessment is recommended to determine the need for decontamination, supportive care, or antidotal therapy.

How They Work

Flea‑and‑tick spot‑on treatments contain insecticidal or acaricidal agents such as imidacloprid, fipronil, or selamectin. After application to the skin, the chemicals dissolve in the oily layer of the coat, penetrate the epidermis, and enter the bloodstream. Once systemic, they circulate to the surface of the skin where they are absorbed by parasites during feeding, causing paralysis or death.

The active substances act on the nervous system of fleas and ticks. Binding to specific receptors disrupts ion channels, leading to rapid loss of motor control. This effect is localized to the parasite; the host’s cells lack the target receptors, which limits direct toxicity when the product remains on the skin.

If a dog chews or licks the applied area, the dose ingested can exceed the safe margin. Acute toxicity may present as:

vomiting or retching
drooling and excessive salivation
tremors or seizures
lethargy and loss of coordination

Severity depends on the amount consumed, the specific active ingredient, and the dog’s size. Mild exposure often resolves with supportive care; moderate to severe cases require veterinary intervention, including emesis induction, intravenous fluids, and anticonvulsant therapy.

Preventive steps include applying the product to an area the dog cannot reach (e.g., between the shoulders), monitoring the animal for a few minutes after treatment, and storing unused portions out of reach. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly and provide details of the product name, concentration, and estimated amount consumed.

The Dangers of Ingestion

Toxicity Levels

When a dog removes a topical flea‑and‑tick medication with its tongue, the active ingredients enter the gastrointestinal tract. Toxicity depends on the compound, concentration, and the amount ingested relative to the animal’s weight.

Ingested fipronil, a common component, produces mild to moderate toxicity at doses exceeding 10 mg/kg. Clinical signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and, in severe cases, tremors or seizures. Permethrin, frequently added for tick control, is highly toxic to canids; doses as low as 0.1 mg/kg can cause neurotoxicity, manifested by hypersalivation, muscle tremors, ataxia, and potentially fatal respiratory failure. Imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen generally exhibit lower oral toxicity, with adverse effects appearing only at doses above 100 mg/kg, typically limited to gastrointestinal upset.

Key factors influencing risk:

Product concentration – higher percentages of active ingredient increase potential dose.
Dog’s size – smaller dogs reach toxic thresholds with less product.
Frequency of exposure – repeated licking raises cumulative dose.
Formulation type – liquid drops may be more readily swallowed than gel pads.

Veterinary guidance recommends immediate veterinary assessment if a dog is observed licking off any spot‑on treatment. Prompt induction of emesis, activated charcoal administration, and supportive care can mitigate toxicity. Preventive measures include applying products to areas the animal cannot reach and supervising the dog after application until the medication dries.

Common Symptoms of Poisoning

When a dog consumes residue from topical flea‑and‑tick treatments, the chemicals can act as toxins. Recognizing poisoning early relies on observing specific physiological changes.

Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Vomiting, often with bile or blood
Diarrhea, which may be watery or contain mucus
Tremors or uncontrolled muscle contractions
Seizure activity, ranging from brief twitches to full convulsions
Rapid, shallow breathing or difficulty breathing
Elevated heart rate, sometimes accompanied by irregular rhythm
Pale or bluish gums indicating poor circulation
Collapse or loss of consciousness

These signs may appear within minutes to several hours after exposure. Immediate veterinary assessment is essential; treatment typically includes decontamination, supportive fluid therapy, and medications to control seizures or cardiac effects. Prompt intervention improves the likelihood of full recovery.

Gastrointestinal Upset

Ingesting a topical flea‑and‑tick preparation can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. The active ingredients—commonly pyrethrins, pyrethroids, organophosphates, or insect growth regulators—are formulated for external use and are not intended for oral absorption. When a dog licks the residue, the chemicals contact the mucosal lining, triggering inflammation and motility disturbances.

Typical manifestations include:

Vomiting, often within minutes to a few hours after exposure
Diarrhea, which may be watery or contain blood
Decreased appetite and reluctance to eat
Abdominal discomfort, evidenced by restlessness or a hunched posture
Possible drooling or excessive salivation as a reflex to oral irritation

Initial management focuses on rapid decontamination and symptom control. If ingestion is recent (within 30 minutes), a veterinarian may recommend oral administration of an emetic or activated charcoal to limit absorption. Intravenous fluids restore hydration and electrolyte balance, while anti‑emetics (e.g., maropitant) and gastroprotectants (e.g., famotidine) reduce vomiting and gastric irritation. Severe cases may require hospitalization for continuous monitoring and supportive therapy.

Preventive measures reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset. Apply the product strictly to the recommended coat areas, avoiding the head, neck, and muzzle. Use a towel or gloves during application to prevent accidental transfer to the dog’s mouth. Consider oral flea‑control options for dogs that frequently lick their fur. Regular inspection of the application site ensures the medication remains in place and does not become a licking target.

Neurological Signs

When a dog consumes a topical flea‑and‑tick product, the active ingredients can be absorbed systemically and affect the central nervous system. Neurotoxic effects depend on the compound, dose, and the animal’s size and health status.

Observed neurological manifestations include:

Tremors of the head, limbs, or whole body
Muscle twitching or fasciculations
Ataxia, resulting in uncoordinated gait and difficulty maintaining balance
Hyperexcitability, characterized by restlessness, heightened responsiveness to stimuli, and vocalization
Seizure activity, ranging from focal twitching to generalized convulsions
Depression of reflexes, leading to slowed or absent response to tactile or pain stimuli
Altered mentation, presenting as disorientation, confusion, or stupor

These signs may appear within minutes to several hours after ingestion. Early detection is critical; prompt veterinary intervention can mitigate progression and improve outcomes. Treatment typically involves decontamination, supportive care, and administration of specific antidotes or anticonvulsants when indicated.

Skin Irritation

When a dog removes flea‑ and tick‑control droplets with its tongue, the skin may react to the active ingredients. The chemicals—commonly pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or organophosphates—are designed to be toxic to parasites but can irritate mammalian tissue if ingested or transferred to the skin.

Typical signs of irritation include:

Redness around the application site
Swelling or puffiness
Itching or frequent scratching
Small blisters or hives
Heat or tenderness on the affected area

Severity depends on the product concentration, the amount licked, and the dog’s individual sensitivity. Mild reactions often resolve within hours as the skin barrier restores itself. Moderate to severe cases may progress to ulceration, secondary bacterial infection, or systemic toxicity if large quantities are absorbed.

Management steps:

Rinse the area with cool water and a mild, veterinary‑approved cleanser to remove residual chemicals.
Apply a soothing, non‑medicated ointment (e.g., aloe‑based gel) to reduce inflammation.
Monitor the dog for escalating symptoms; seek veterinary care if redness spreads, lesions develop, or the animal shows signs of lethargy, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application distance and dosage to prevent future licking incidents.

Prevention relies on securing the treatment until it dries, using collars or harnesses that limit oral access, and selecting spot‑on products formulated with low dermal absorption for sensitive breeds.

Factors Influencing Severity

When a dog ingests topical flea‑and‑tick medication, the clinical outcome varies widely. The intensity of symptoms depends on several measurable variables rather than on a single cause.

Key variables that modify the severity of an adverse reaction include:

Dose relative to body weight – larger amounts per kilogram increase toxic potential.
Age and developmental stage – puppies and senior dogs often have reduced metabolic capacity.
Breed‑specific sensitivities – some breeds possess genetic traits that affect drug metabolism.
Health status – liver or kidney disease impairs elimination of active ingredients.
Concurrent medications – interactions can amplify toxicity or hinder detoxification pathways.
Time elapsed before decontamination – prompt removal of residue limits absorption.
Formulation type – products based on permethrin, imidacloprid, or fipronil differ in oral toxicity profiles.
Individual enzyme activity – variations in cytochrome P450 enzymes influence breakdown speed.

Each factor can shift the clinical picture from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe neurologic signs. Accurate assessment of these parameters helps predict prognosis and guide emergency treatment.

Type of Product

Flea‑ and tick‑control spot‑on products belong to several chemical families, each with distinct safety profiles when a dog ingests the applied dose. The most common categories include:

Pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, cypermethrin): synthetic insecticides that act on nerve membranes.
Neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid, selamectin): compounds that bind to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
Organophosphates (e.g., fipronil, dinotefuran): agents that interfere with GABA‑gated chloride channels.
Insect growth regulators (e.g., pyriproxyfen, methoprene): substances that disrupt larval development.

When a dog licks the treated area, the amount of active ingredient absorbed orally can exceed the margin of safety established for topical use. Clinical manifestations typically appear within minutes to hours and may include:

Salivation and drooling.
Vomiting or retching.
Diarrhea, possibly with blood.
Tremors, ataxia, or seizures (especially with pyrethroids).
Bradycardia or tachycardia, depending on the compound.

Veterinary intervention should focus on decontamination, symptomatic therapy, and, when indicated, administration of specific antidotes (e.g., intravenous lipid emulsion for lipophilic toxins). Prompt assessment of the ingested product type, dosage, and time since exposure determines the treatment protocol and prognosis.

Amount Ingested

When a dog removes a spot‑on flea and tick product by licking, the quantity swallowed determines the clinical outcome. The amount ingested depends on the product’s concentration, the size of the treated area, and the dog’s behavior. A single application typically contains 0.5 ml to 1 ml of solution, delivering a dose of 0.5 mg to 5 mg of active ingredient per kilogram of body weight. If the entire dose is ingested, the resulting exposure can exceed the recommended oral limit for most species.

Key factors influencing toxicity:

Product concentration: Higher‑strength formulations contain more active compound per milliliter, raising the potential dose.
Application size: Larger treated zones increase the surface area available for licking.
Dog’s size: Smaller dogs reach a higher mg/kg exposure from the same volume than larger dogs.
Time before licking: Rapid absorption through the skin reduces the amount remaining on the coat.

Typical toxic thresholds reported in veterinary literature:

Active ingredient	Approximate toxic dose (mg/kg)	Observed signs at this level
Fipronil	5–10	Tremors, hyperthermia
Imidacloprid	10–20	Salivation, vomiting
Permethrin	5–15	Seizures, paralysis

Clinical signs correlate with the ingested dose. Minimal ingestion (less than 0.1 mg/kg) often produces no observable effects. Moderate ingestion (0.1–1 mg/kg) may cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, and mild lethargy. Severe ingestion (above 1 mg/kg) can lead to neurologic disturbances, tremors, seizures, or even fatal outcomes.

Immediate response should include:

Estimate the volume licked based on the product label and observed behavior.
Contact a veterinarian with the calculated mg/kg exposure.
Follow professional advice, which may involve inducing emesis, administering activated charcoal, or providing supportive care.

Accurate assessment of the ingested amount is essential for determining the appropriate therapeutic intervention and preventing serious toxicity.

Dog's Size and Health

The amount of flea‑and‑tick medication a dog ingests is directly linked to its body mass. Smaller dogs have less tissue to dilute the active ingredients, so the same dose that is safe for a large breed can become toxic. Conversely, a healthy, well‑conditioned animal may metabolize and excrete the compounds more efficiently than one with compromised liver or kidney function.

When a dog licks the treated area, the following factors determine the clinical outcome:

Weight‑to‑dose ratio – toxicity thresholds are expressed in milligrams per kilogram; a 5 kg dog experiences a proportionally higher exposure than a 30 kg dog.
Age and developmental stage – puppies and senior dogs often have immature or declining enzymatic pathways, increasing susceptibility.
Pre‑existing health conditions – hepatic or renal disease reduces clearance, prolonging systemic presence of the chemicals.
Type of product – some spot‑on formulations contain permethrin, which is especially hazardous to dogs with certain genetic sensitivities; others use imidacloprid or fipronil, each with distinct toxicity profiles.

Clinical signs may range from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe neurological disturbances, depending on the interaction of these variables. Prompt veterinary assessment is essential; treatment typically involves decontamination, activated charcoal, and supportive care tailored to the animal’s size and health status.

Immediate Actions to Take

Contact Your Veterinarian

If a dog consumes a topical flea‑and‑tick product, immediate veterinary consultation is essential. The veterinarian can assess the amount ingested, the specific formulation, and the dog’s size and health status to determine the risk of toxicity. Prompt professional advice may include instructions for inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or arranging emergency treatment such as intravenous fluids or antidotes. Delaying contact can worsen symptoms, which may range from gastrointestinal upset to neurological signs. Therefore, call the veterinary clinic or an animal poison control center as soon as ingestion is suspected, provide details about the product and the dog’s condition, and follow the expert’s recommendations without hesitation.

Inducing Vomiting (When Appropriate)

If a dog swallows a flea‑and‑tick spot‑on product, immediate assessment is required to determine whether vomiting is the proper response. Inducing emesis is only justified when the substance is still in the stomach, the dog is alert, and no contraindications exist, such as ingestion of a caustic or petroleum‑based formulation.

Veterinary consultation should precede any at‑home attempt. Professionals can confirm that the time since ingestion is within the window for effective removal (generally less than two hours) and can rule out risks like aspiration or gastrointestinal irritation.

When a veterinarian advises self‑induced vomiting, follow these steps:

Use 3% hydrogen peroxide, administering 1 ml per pound of body weight, not exceeding 45 ml total.
Deliver the dose orally using a syringe or syringe‑type applicator.
Encourage the dog to walk or gently massage the abdomen for one to two minutes.
Observe for retching; if it occurs, allow the dog to expel the contents naturally.
If vomiting does not happen within ten minutes, repeat the dose once; do not exceed two administrations.

After emesis, monitor the dog for signs of distress, such as persistent drooling, lethargy, or abdominal pain, and seek veterinary care immediately if any develop.

Monitoring Your Dog

When a dog consumes flea‑and‑tick spot‑on treatment, immediate observation is essential. Watch for abnormal behavior, such as excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, tremors, or seizures. Record the time of ingestion, the amount taken, and the product name; this information speeds veterinary assessment.

Key points for effective monitoring:

Check the mouth and throat for residue; remove any visible droplets with a damp cloth.
Note changes in appetite or water intake within the first hour.
Measure body temperature every 30 minutes for the first two hours; fever may indicate systemic reaction.
Observe respiratory rate; rapid or labored breathing warrants urgent attention.
Monitor skin for redness, swelling, or hives, especially around the face and neck.

If any of the above signs appear, contact a veterinarian without delay. Provide the product label, dosage, and the dog’s weight to facilitate appropriate treatment. Even in the absence of symptoms, a follow‑up call to a professional is advisable, as some toxic effects develop several hours after exposure.

Consistent documentation—time stamps, symptom description, and any interventions—creates a clear record for the veterinarian and improves the likelihood of a successful outcome. Regular health checks after potential exposure reinforce safe handling of flea‑and‑tick products and reduce the risk of severe reactions.

Preventing Ingestion

Proper Application Techniques

Applying flea‑and‑tick spot‑on products correctly prevents a dog from ingesting the medication and avoids toxicity. Ingestion can produce vomiting, drooling, tremors, or seizures, depending on the active ingredient and amount consumed.

Proper technique begins with a clean, dry skin surface. Part the hair at the recommended spot—usually between the shoulder blades or along the back—and press the applicator directly against the skin until the liquid spreads. Do not spray onto fur; the medication must contact the epidermis to enter the bloodstream.

Identify the correct dosage for the dog’s weight.
Use a single, measured dose; avoid multiple applications on the same day.
Apply the product to a single location per label instructions.
Allow the area to dry for at least two minutes before the dog moves.

After the product dries, restrict access to the treated spot. A short‑term e‑collar or confinement to a clean, non‑carpeted area prevents licking while the medication absorbs. Supervise the dog until the scent of the product diminishes, typically within 30‑45 minutes.

Consistent adherence to these steps eliminates the primary route of accidental ingestion, thereby maintaining the intended protective effect without exposing the animal to harmful side effects.

Post-Application Precautions

When a flea‑ and tick‑control spot is applied, the medication spreads across the skin and may be transferred to the tongue if the animal licks the area. Ingesting the product can cause gastrointestinal upset, neurological signs, or systemic toxicity, depending on the formulation and dose.

Immediate actions after spotting a lick:

Observe the dog for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, tremors, or loss of coordination.
Rinse the treated spot with cool water for at least 30 seconds to remove residual product.
Offer fresh water to encourage swallowing of any remaining residue.
Contact a veterinarian promptly, providing the product name, amount applied, and time since exposure.
Follow the veterinarian’s instructions, which may include inducing emesis, administering activated charcoal, or monitoring vital signs.

Preventive measures for future applications:

Apply the spot to the mid‑neck area, avoiding the head and muzzle.
Keep the dog confined for the duration specified on the label, typically 30–60 minutes, to prevent licking.
Use a collar or Elizabethan harness to limit access to the treated site until the product dries.
Store all flea‑ and tick‑control agents out of reach of pets and children.
Regularly inspect the application site for signs of irritation or excessive licking.

Restraining Your Dog

When a topical flea‑and‑tick product is applied, the dog may try to lick the treated area. Ingesting the chemicals can cause gastrointestinal irritation, neurological signs, or organ toxicity, depending on the formulation. Preventing this behavior is essential for the animal’s safety.

Effective restraint techniques include:

Physical confinement – place the dog in a crate or small pen until the product dries (typically 5–10 minutes). Ensure adequate ventilation and a comfortable surface.
Leash control – attach a short leash and keep the dog on a short lead, guiding it away from the treated spot. Use a gentle, firm grip to discourage reaching.
Protective garments – fit a veterinary‑approved cone, e‑collar, or slip‑over suit that blocks access to the application site. Verify the fit to avoid gaps.
Supervised monitoring – assign a person to watch the dog continuously, intervening the moment the animal attempts to lick. Use verbal commands to reinforce “leave it” cues.
Distraction tactics – provide chew toys or engage the dog in a short training session during the drying period to occupy its attention.

After the product has set, verify that the dog cannot reach the area before allowing free movement. If any signs of ingestion appear—vomiting, drooling, tremors—contact a veterinarian immediately.

Distraction Methods

When a dog applies its tongue to the spot where a flea‑and‑tick treatment has been placed, the animal can ingest toxic chemicals, leading to vomiting, gastrointestinal upset, or more severe systemic effects. Preventing oral contact during the absorption period is essential for safety.

Effective distraction techniques include:

Physical barriers – apply a lightweight collar, a recovery suit, or an Elizabethan‑style shirt to cover the treated area for the first 24–48 hours.
Environmental enrichment – provide chew toys, puzzle feeders, or frozen treats that occupy the mouth and attention.
Scheduled activity – engage the dog in a brisk walk, training session, or interactive play immediately after application to keep the focus away from the skin.
Positive reinforcement – teach a “leave it” cue and reward the dog for ignoring the treated site, reinforcing the behavior over repeated exposures.
Temporal separation – administer the medication when the dog is naturally less inclined to lick, such as after a meal or during a nap, then monitor until the barrier period ends.

Each method should be tailored to the dog’s size, temperament, and health status. Combining a physical barrier with mental stimulation yields the highest compliance, reducing the likelihood of accidental ingestion. Regular observation during the critical absorption window confirms that the distraction strategy remains effective; any signs of licking require immediate intervention, such as re‑applying the barrier or consulting a veterinarian.

In practice, integrate distraction into a broader safety protocol: apply the product, secure the barrier, initiate a stimulating activity, and maintain vigilance until the medication is fully absorbed. This systematic approach minimizes toxic exposure while preserving the dog’s comfort and routine.

Storage of Products

Improper storage of flea‑and‑tick spot‑on treatments creates a direct risk of canine ingestion. When a dog contacts a product that has been left uncovered or placed within reach, the animal may lick the residue, exposing itself to concentrated chemicals designed for external use only. Such exposure can cause skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, or systemic toxicity, depending on the formulation’s active ingredients.

Effective storage practices eliminate this hazard.

Keep containers tightly sealed after each use.
Store in a locked cabinet or high shelf inaccessible to pets.
Maintain a temperature range specified by the manufacturer, typically 15‑30 °C (59‑86 °F).
Protect from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve chemical stability.
Record the expiration date and discard any product past its usable period.

If ingestion is suspected, immediate veterinary consultation is required. Provide the veterinarian with the product name, active ingredient, and time of exposure. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional. Prompt medical assessment reduces the likelihood of severe adverse effects.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If a dog removes flea‑or tick‑treatment from its skin with its tongue, immediate assessment is required. The chemicals in most topical products can cause systemic toxicity when absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. Prompt veterinary intervention can prevent severe complications.

Seek emergency care if any of the following occur:

Vomiting or retching within minutes to a few hours after ingestion
Diarrhea, especially with blood or mucus
Excessive drooling, foaming at the mouth, or difficulty swallowing
Tremors, seizures, or uncontrolled muscle twitching
Rapid, irregular heartbeat or fainting episodes
Profuse sweating, panting, or elevated body temperature
Unusual lethargy, weakness, or collapse
Swelling or redness around the application site that spreads rapidly

Even in the absence of obvious symptoms, contact a veterinarian if the dog has ingested a substantial amount of the product, if the formulation is known to contain organophosphates, pyrethrins, or other neurotoxic agents, or if the pet is a small breed, a puppy, or has pre‑existing health conditions. Early decontamination, such as induced emesis or gastric lavage, may be recommended only by a professional. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of organ damage, respiratory failure, or death.

Long-Term Effects and Recovery

Follow-Up Veterinary Care

When a dog ingests a topical flea‑and‑tick preparation, immediate veterinary assessment is essential. The veterinarian will evaluate the amount ingested, the specific product’s active ingredient, and the dog’s size and health status to determine the risk of toxicity.

The clinician may perform the following actions:

Induce emesis if the ingestion occurred within the past 30 minutes and the product’s label does not contraindicate it.
Administer activated charcoal to bind residual toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.
Conduct blood work to check liver and kidney function, especially for products containing permethrin or pyrethrins.
Provide supportive therapy, such as intravenous fluids, anti‑emetics, and pain relief, to stabilize the animal.

After the acute phase, the veterinarian will schedule a follow‑up examination within 24–48 hours to monitor for delayed signs, including tremors, seizures, or gastrointestinal upset. The owner should observe the dog for abnormal behavior, excessive drooling, or loss of coordination and report any changes promptly.

Preventive measures include storing all ectoparasitic treatments out of reach, applying them according to label instructions, and confirming the correct dosage for the dog’s weight. Routine veterinary visits allow the practitioner to review safe use practices and adjust parasite control strategies if the dog has a history of accidental ingestion.

Potential Complications

If a dog removes topical flea‑and‑tick product with its tongue, the animal may experience a range of adverse effects. Absorption through the oral mucosa bypasses the intended skin barrier, increasing systemic exposure to the active ingredients.

Gastrointestinal irritation, including vomiting and diarrhea, can develop within minutes to hours.
Neurological signs such as tremors, ataxia, seizures, or disorientation may appear, especially with products containing pyrethrins, permethrin, or organophosphates.
Cardiovascular disturbances, including rapid heart rate or low blood pressure, are possible with high doses of certain compounds.
Liver and kidney overload may occur, manifested by elevated enzymes, reduced urine output, or jaundice, indicating organ toxicity.
Allergic reactions, ranging from localized swelling to anaphylaxis, can arise if the dog is hypersensitive to any ingredient.

Severity depends on the amount ingested, the specific formulation, and the dog’s size, age, and health status. Immediate veterinary assessment is essential; treatment may involve induced vomiting, activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, and medication to control seizures or cardiac effects. Prompt intervention reduces the risk of permanent damage or fatal outcomes.