What should be done if a cat swallows flea drops? - briefly
Immediately contact a veterinarian or emergency animal clinic for guidance; if advised, follow professional instructions on inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal, and monitor the cat for signs of toxicity such as drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
What should be done if a cat swallows flea drops? - in detail
If a cat ingests a flea‑control spot‑on product, immediate action is required.
First, determine the amount and type of medication. Look at the container for active ingredients (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin) and any emergency instructions. Note the time of ingestion and the cat’s weight, as dosage calculations depend on these factors.
Next, contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control line without delay. Provide the product name, active ingredients, estimated dose, and the cat’s size. Follow the professional’s guidance precisely; they may advise observation, induced emesis, or direct transport to a clinic.
If a veterinarian recommends inducing vomiting and the ingestion occurred within the past two hours, use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution at a dose of 1 ml per kilogram of body weight, not exceeding 30 ml total. Administer orally with a syringe, then allow the cat to vomit. Do not attempt this if the product contains a corrosive solvent or if the cat shows signs of distress, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
After vomiting, monitor for symptoms such as salivation, tremors, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. Record any changes and report them to the vet immediately. If the cat remains asymptomatic, still seek veterinary evaluation, as some flea‑treatments can cause delayed toxicity.
In a veterinary setting, clinicians may perform:
- Physical examination focusing on neurologic and respiratory status.
- Blood work to assess organ function and detect systemic absorption.
- Administration of activated charcoal to bind residual toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Intravenous fluids to support renal clearance and maintain hydration.
- Anticonvulsant medication if seizures develop.
Do not give over‑the‑counter human medications, antihistamines, or home remedies without professional advice.
Finally, prevent future incidents by applying flea products only as directed, using the correct dose for the cat’s weight, and storing all veterinary medications out of reach. Regularly inspect the cat for signs of adverse reactions after any new treatment.