Why is a dog product deadly to cats?
Cats lack the liver enzyme that breaks down permethrin, so even a lick from a dog that was just treated can cause severe tremors and seizures within hours. High-strength "spot-on" products (45%+) are the most dangerous.
Why speed matters
Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.
Symptoms of permethrin poisoning
- Tremors or twitching, especially of the face and ears
- Excessive drooling, vomiting
- Twitching that becomes full seizures
- Wobbliness, jumping or over-reacting to noise
- High body temperature, collapse
What to do right now
- Call your vet immediately. Permethrin toxicity needs urgent veterinary treatment.
- Wash the cat with warm water and a small amount of dish soap to remove any product still on the fur.
- Keep the cat in a dark, quiet room — noise triggers seizures.
- Do NOT use dog flea products on cats, ever. Check the label for "permethrin" before use.
Sources & further reading
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
- Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
- Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
- Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance
Other poisonings with overlapping signs
- Sleep Aids (Melatonin, Zolpidem, Valerian) — shares signs: wobbliness
- Marijuana / THC Poisoning in Dogs — shares signs: wobbliness
- Cane Toad & Toad Poisoning — shares signs: wobbliness
Owners also ask
- My cat chewed open an old bottle of valerian root supplements that might be mouldy — what should I do?
- My dog ate a weed edible (THC) — what should I watch for?
Frequently asked questions
Is Permethrin Toxicity in Cats poisonous to a dog or cat?
Cats lack the liver enzyme that breaks down permethrin, so even a lick from a dog that was just treated can cause severe tremors and seizures within hours. High-strength "spot-on" products (45%+) are the most dangerous.
What are the symptoms of permethrin poisoning?
Tremors or twitching, especially of the face and ears; Excessive drooling, vomiting; Twitching that becomes full seizures; Wobbliness, jumping or over-reacting to noise
What should I do if my pet ate Permethrin Toxicity in Cats?
Call your vet immediately. Permethrin toxicity needs urgent veterinary treatment. Wash the cat with warm water and a small amount of dish soap to remove any product still on the fur. Keep the cat in a dark, quiet room — noise triggers seizures.
Not the substance you were looking for? Open the full answer index.