What is pyrethrin or pyrethroid toxicity?
Pyrethrin and pyrethroid are insecticides. Natural pyrethrin is found in chrysanthemums and related plants. The synthetic form of the insecticide is called “pyrethroid.” Pyrethrin and pyrethroid are commonly found in flea and tick control products. Pyrethrin or pyrethroid toxicity is poisoning due to exposure to these insecticides. Exposure may be from swallowing (ingestion) of products that contain these insecticides or from contact with the skin when products containing pyrethrin or pyrethroid are applied directly to the hair and skin (topical application). What causes pyrethrin or pyrethroid toxicity? Pyrethrin or pyrethroid toxicity is caused by overuse or improper use of flea and tick products. Small dogs and cats are more sensitive to pyrethrin or pyrethroid toxicity because they have a relatively large body surface compared to their body mass, making it easier to overdose these small pets with topical insecticides. Cats can become poisoned from the accidental or intentional use
