Effects of Pyrethrin Insecticides on Cats

Cats are particularly susceptible to pyrethrin poisoning because their livers inefficiently detoxify this insecticide. 41 As a consequence, there are a large number of poisoning incidents. Veterinarians summarizing calls made to an animal poison control center in 1986 found that pyrethrin-related incidents were more numerous than incidents involving any other insecticide.42,43

41. Campbell, A. and M. Chapman. 2000. Handbook of poisoning in dogs and cats. Malden MA: Blackwell Science. p. 43.

42. Beasley, V.R. and H.L. Trammel. 1989. Incidence of poisonings in small animals. Curr. Vet. Ther. 10: 97-113 &

Permethrin toxicity in cats: a retrospective study of 20 cases. Dymond NL, Swift IM. Aust Vet J. 2008 Jun;86(6):219-23; & Permethrin toxicosis in cats. Linnett PJ. Aust Vet J. 2008 Jan-Feb;86(1-2):32-5; & Permethrin toxicity in cats. Gleadhill A.Vet Rec. 2004 Nov 13;155(20):648.

43. ASPCA NATIONAL ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER, PERMETHRIN HAZARDS FOR CATS, www.vetprof.com/clientinfo/permethrincats.html ; & Linnett, PJ (2008). "Permethrin toxicosis in cats". Australian Veterinary Journal 86 (1-2): 32–35.