Pet Flea Medication

1. If a pet flea medication has been breathed in, immediately move away from the area to fresh air.
2. Wipe or rinse out the mouth.
3. Give a serving size of water to drink.
4. Rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water and soap.
5. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Pet flea medications can be found in various products and formulations. They usually contain insecticides or substances that kill insects. Topical flea medications include shampoos, sprays, powders, and spot treatments. Some pills that are given to the pet by mouth and special flea collars for the pet to wear.

Pets receiving spot treatments of flea medication should be completely dry before someone handles them to avoid accidental exposure. Keep pets from rubbing up against the carpet or furniture before the flea medication has dried. If not, the residue of the insecticide can be transferred to the soft surface or furniture and then be passed on to a person inadvertently.

If the flea medication is in pill form, frequently, an adult mistakenly takes the medication instead of their own. Sometimes the pet will eat the food around the medicine and leave it in their bowl, or they may carry it to a different part of the house and spit it out. Often, a toddler then finds the pill and puts it in their mouth, leading to an accidental ingestion of the pet’s medication. There are also flea collars that owners place around their pet’s neck. This collar slowly releases the insecticide and deters the pests. Sometimes, this collar will fall off, and parents will find their toddler chewing on it, possibly ingesting some of the medication or getting it on their hands.

What to do if you swallow flea pill

If you mistakenly take your pet’s medication or find your child with pet flea medication, do not panic. An adult should drink a small serving of water. For children, wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. Be sure to wash any exposed skin with soap and water. It is always best to call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222 with any exposure to pet flea medication because there are many different kinds. The possible symptoms vary based on the product. When you call, have the product information at hand with both the product name and active ingredients to get the best first aid information. The poison center is open all day, every day for poisoning emergencies and questions.

Do not include children when applying pet flea medications because they are much more susceptible to the effects of insecticides than adults. Read the packaging directions completely before applying the insecticide and follow all directions given.

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