Pyrethrin and Permethrin are Not the Same Thing
Confusion Over Feline Flea Control Products can be Deadly for Cats
Sep 7, 2009
Cats and fleas seem go together naturally, but most folks who live with felines prefer that they be flea-free. In the quest for safe flea control, many pet owners are turning to natural flea remedies. However there is some confusion between pyrethrin, which is produced from certain species of chrysanthemum flowers, and permethrin, which is synthesized in the lab.
What is Pyrethrin?
Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that is extracted from the flowers of the pyrethrum plant, which is a type of chrysanthemum. These flowers are found in several parts of the world, including the Middle East and Asia, but most of them are grown in Kenya. People have been using extracts from pyrethrum flowers for centuries to control insects.
Today, pyrethrins are used in many pet flea control products, including flea powder. Pyrethrin kills fleas and other insects by affecting their nervous systems.
Pyrethrin is generally thought to be safe for use on cats, according to "The Use of Pyrethrin for Flea Control in Dogs & Cats," by Holly Nash, DVM. In this article, published on PetEducation.com, Dr. Nash explains that pyrethrins are broken down by stomach acid, so it's not normally a problem if Kitty ingests it while grooming herself. This natural insecticide is considered safe for kittens, and as well as pregnant and nursing felines.
However, using too much of a flea treatment containing this substance can cause pyrethrin toxicosis. Symptoms include drooling, shaking, vomiting, and seizures. These symptoms usually disappear withing 24 hours. Always read and follow the label instructions to prevent overdoses.
If a feline develops adverse reactions to being treated with a pyrethrin-containing product, bathe the kitty right away, and rise her well. If the pet continues to show symptoms, take her to the vet.
Permethrin is Not Safe for Cats
The Mar Vista Animal Medical Center has an excellent article, "Flea Product Comparison," on its website, MarVistaVet.com. This article, published in 2006, explains that permethrin is a synthetic version of pyrethrin. Many people erroneously assume that pyrethrin and permethrin are the same thing. Although the names are similar, the similarity ends there. It's important not to confuse the two, because permethrin is very toxic to cats.
Permethrin was developed because pyrethrins have a short life. They don't have much of a residual effect, and they must be reapplied often. Scientists addressed this issue by coming up with pyrethrin derivatives called "pyrethroids," including permethrin, which are longer-lasting.
Although permethrins can be used safely on dogs, they should never be used on a kitty. In fact, permethrin is so toxic to cats that it shouldn't be even used on a dog who snuggles with a feline friend.
Symptoms of permethrin toxicosis include tremors, drooling, difficulty walking, vomiting, and seizures. Affected cats may also flick their ears or shake their paws. If a cat owner suspects that his or her pet has permethrin toxicosis, get the kitty to the vet right away, as this condition can be fatal if not treated.
Avoid Poisoning a Cat With Permethrin
Always read the label of any flea control treatment every time it's used. Never use a product meant for a dog on a cat. Only use flea remedies that are formulated for cats on felines. If a permethrin product is used on a dog in the household, keep the pup in a separate area away from the cat.
Be sure to understand the difference between pyrethrin and permethrin. A cat's life may depend on it.
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