My cat licked another cat's flea treatment. Is it an emergency?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on June 2nd, 2018

  Monitor for lethargy, drooling, vomiting or tremors. A small amount may result in some minor gastrointestinal upset. You can usually manage it with a short fast, 12 hours, followed by a bland diet in small, frequent amounts until symptoms resolve.
  A larger amount ingested may cause more severe signs requiring veterinary attention for decontamination and supportive care as indicated by symptoms.

  

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• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on April 26th, 2017

  Oh no, thats not good that they are licking at the flea treatment. Yes, you are correct that ingesting this can have serious side effects, and I would immediately wash off the medication as much as possible to keep them from licking at it and rinse out their mouths as well. Then keep an eye on them for signs of toxicity which include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, muscle tremors, ear twitching, and lethargy. Should you see any of those signs, take them into a vet immediately.
  
  Because you had to wash off the Advantage, you won't be sure how much was absorbed in their skin so I would not reapply any more Advantage for another two weeks. You can give them Capstar, which is a one time pill that starts killing fleas in 30 minutes. You can also give them an oral medication such as Comfortis.

  

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• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on September 27th, 2019

  A small amount should not cause a serious problem. You may see some drooling or minor stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhea). Monitor for lethargy, tremors, ataxia (wobbly gait) or loss of appetite. These are symptoms that should be addressed by your veterinarian.

  

  6Pet Parents found this answer helpful