Toxic to cats · Insecticides

Is Amitraz toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • lethargy
  • walking drunk
  • dilated pupils
  • seizures
  • coma
  • drooling
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • bloating
  • slowed heart rate
  • low blood pressure
  • high blood pressure

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary attention is required for the administration of antidotes such as atipamazole or yohimbine, along with blood pressure monitoring, IV fluids, and symptomatic supportive care.

Why it's dangerous

Amitraz acts as an alpha2-adrenergic agonist and monoamine oxidase inhibitor, leading to severe depression of the central nervous system, cardiac dysfunction, and gastrointestinal distress.

Toxic compound: Amitraz

Good to know

Amitraz is an ectoparasiticide used in products like flea and tick collars; toxicity occurs through accidental ingestion or inappropriate application.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

Organophosphates Extreme severity Pyrethrins & Pyrethroids Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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