The cat licked flea treatment drops, what should I do? - briefly
Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately and follow their instructions. Monitor the cat for vomiting, drooling, agitation, or seizures and report any observed symptoms.
The cat licked flea treatment drops, what should I do? - in detail
If a cat has swallowed topical flea medication, act immediately. First, read the product label or accompanying leaflet. Identify the active ingredient (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid, nitenpyram, selamectin) and any specific warnings about oral ingestion.
Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center without delay. Provide the cat’s weight, the product name, concentration, amount estimated to have been ingested, and the time elapsed since exposure. Follow the professional’s instructions precisely.
While waiting for advice, observe the animal for signs of toxicity, which may include:
- Salivation or drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremors or seizures
- Lethargy
- Unusual behavior
If the veterinarian recommends inducing vomiting and the ingestion occurred within the past two hours, use only the method prescribed (e.g., a dose of 3% hydrogen peroxide at 1 ml per 5 lb body weight). Do not attempt home remedies without veterinary guidance.
Do not administer any additional medication, including over‑the‑counter anti‑nausea drugs, unless instructed by a professional. Keep the cat in a quiet, safe environment to prevent stress and injury.
After treatment, schedule a follow‑up examination to confirm recovery and discuss preventive measures, such as using oral flea products or applying topical treatments correctly to avoid future ingestion.