Scratchings-and-Sniffings

Posted by Animals at 5:08 PM Sunday, June 7, 2009

Scratchings-and-Sniffings
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How safe is your flea control product

Posted: 06 Jun 2009 05:28 AM PDT

Dr.-Larry-with-Miles There has been a buzz about the safety of spot on flea control products over the last month or so and I've been looking into it up here in Montreal at the ACVIM meeting. I've seen articles in the Wall Street Journal and local TV spots dealing with this issue. I've also seen a few posts in the blogosphere dealing with the safety of flea control products.
 
The products in question are the spot on products that are sold in vials or tubes and squeezed onto the skin of dogs and cats along the top line between the shoulder blades. The EPA regulates these insecticides and they have issued a statement that has been a source of concern for many pet owners and for veterinarians, alike. The statement cautions about an increased level of adverse reactions to flea control products. These reactions can range from minor skin irritation, to more severe problems like seizures and even death in some dogs and cats. 
 
One nice thing about being at a big veterinary meeting is that you can talk to the right people all in one big exhibit hall. The biggest manufacturers of flea control products are all here and I had conversations with representatives of the two leading manufacturers. Merial makes Frontline and Bayer makes a product called Advantage.
 
Merial has a statement indicating that they have not experienced an increase in adverse reactions for Frontline. Bayer has a statement to the same affect but I could not find it on their web site.
My personal experience with these products is that they are safe and effective when used according to the manufacturer's directions. It is important to use the right product for your cat and the right product for your dog and to use the appropriate dosage for the body weigh of your pet. it is also important to apply the product correctly.Miles-growing-up
 
When you buy these products from your veterinarian you get the added assurance that you are getting the right product and the proper instructions about the application. I don't know much about the products that are sold over the counter. I'm not saying that these products are unsafe, I just don't know much about them. The EPA has not identified a particular product that they are concerned about as yet.
 
If you are concerned about the safety of these products consult your veterinarian. Your veterinarian is best equipped to advise you about the safety of specific products and to recommend a safe and effective product for your cat or dog.

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