A cat has licked off flea and tick drops—what should I do?

A cat has licked off flea and tick drops—what should I do? - briefly

Call your veterinarian immediately. Observe the cat for signs of toxicity—vomiting, drooling, tremors, lethargy, or loss of coordination—and follow the professional advice.

A cat has licked off flea and tick drops—what should I do? - in detail

If a cat removes a topical flea‑and‑tick preparation and then licks the area, immediate action is required.

First, identify the product. Look for the brand name, active ingredient (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin, permethrin) and concentration. Many spot‑on treatments are toxic when ingested, especially those containing permethrin.

Second, contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control line without delay. Provide the product details, the estimated amount consumed, the cat’s weight, and the time elapsed since exposure. Professional guidance will determine whether decontamination, induced vomiting, or administration of activated charcoal is appropriate.

Third, follow the recommended decontamination steps. If instructed, wipe the cat’s fur with a damp cloth to remove residual medication. Do not use harsh chemicals or shampoos unless specifically advised.

Fourth, monitor the animal closely for signs of toxicity. Typical symptoms include drooling, vomiting, tremors, seizures, ataxia, excessive salivation, or respiratory distress. Record the onset and progression of any abnormal behavior.

Fifth, be prepared for veterinary intervention. Treatment may involve:

  1. Induced emesis – only if within the safe time window and not contraindicated.
  2. Activated charcoal – to bind remaining toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.
  3. Intravenous fluids – to support kidney function and maintain hydration.
  4. Anticonvulsants – if neurologic signs develop.
  5. Supportive care – oxygen therapy, temperature regulation, and monitoring of blood glucose.

Finally, prevent future incidents by applying spot‑on products according to label instructions: use the recommended dose, apply to a single spot on the back of the neck, and keep the cat from grooming the area until the medication has dried (usually 5–10 minutes). Consider alternative flea control methods, such as oral medications or collars, if the cat has a history of licking topical treatments.