What should be done in case of a cat's poisoning from flea drops? - briefly
Immediately remove the cat from the contaminated area, rinse any exposed fur with water, and call a veterinarian or animal poison control for instructions, which may include inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal under professional guidance.
What should be done in case of a cat's poisoning from flea drops? - in detail
If a cat ingests or is exposed to flea‑control medication and shows signs of toxicity, act without delay.
First, remove the animal from the source. Dispose of any remaining product, keep the container for reference, and wash the cat’s fur with mild soap and water to eliminate residue that could be licked later.
Assess the cat’s condition. Look for vomiting, drooling, tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing, excessive salivation, or loss of coordination. Record the time of exposure, the product name, concentration, and the estimated amount ingested.
Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison hotline immediately. Provide the recorded details; the professional will advise whether to induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, or bring the cat in for emergency care.
Do not attempt to force vomiting unless instructed by a qualified vet. If approved, use a syringe to deliver a small amount of 3 % hydrogen peroxide (approximately 1 ml per kilogram of body weight) and monitor for regurgitation. Stop the procedure if the cat shows resistance or distress.
If the veterinarian recommends activated charcoal, it must be given under supervision, typically 1–2 g per kilogram of body weight, to bind remaining toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.
In a clinical setting, the veterinarian may perform:
- Intravenous fluid therapy to maintain hydration and support kidney function.
- Anticonvulsant medication (e.g., diazepam, phenobarbital) if seizures occur.
- Anticholinergic agents (e.g., atropine) for severe salivation or bradycardia.
- Blood tests to evaluate organ function and detect metabolic disturbances.
After treatment, keep the cat in a quiet, temperature‑controlled environment. Monitor for recurrence of symptoms for at least 24 hours. Provide easy access to fresh water and a bland diet once vomiting subsides.
Prevent future incidents by storing flea products out of reach, using cat‑specific formulations, and following label instructions precisely. Regularly inspect the pet’s coat for residues after application and wash hands thoroughly after handling any medication.