Content
- What is permethrin for dogs?
- Uses of Permethrin for Dogs
- Permethrin dose for dogs
- Permethrin contraindications for dogs
- Permethrin side effects in dogs
Permethrin is a antiparasitic product which, as such, we can find in several formats that aim to kill fleas, ticks or mites. In this PeritoAnimal article, we are going to talk specifically about the use of permethrin in dogs. We will explain what it is, how it works, how effective it is and, above all, we will focus on the precautions that must be taken with its administration and handling to avoid side effects.
Read on and discover with us everything you need to know about permethrin for dogs, but remember that it is always recommended to check with your veterinarian which is the most suitable antiparasitic for your dog.
What is permethrin for dogs?
Permethrin is a antiparasitic substance used in human and veterinary medicine. She works mainly by contact. Belongs to the group of pyrethroids, which are synthetic compounds with a broad spectrum, that is, they will be active against several parasites. They are analogues of natural pyrethrins, which act as insect and mite repellents and are extracted from well-known flowers such as chrysanthemums. The mechanism of action of both pyrethroids and pyrethrins is based on affecting the nervous transmission of certain parasites to the point of causing paralysis and, ultimately, death.
You have to know that it's been a widely used product since the 1970s, and this makes permethrin for dogs not always as effective as we'd like, since parasites can develop resistance. This, in turn, would imply that permethrin would no longer be effective or would have very low efficacy against them. With this in mind, if you do not see the desired effectiveness, it is advisable to use another antiparasitic product recommended by your veterinarian. Other times, products add some substance to improve this aspect. This problem is relatively common in the case of fleas.
Uses of Permethrin for Dogs
Permethrin for dogs is used against ticks, fleas, mites, lice and flies. All of these are called external parasites, as you can see them in the dog. We have already discussed the relationship between synthetic pyrethroids, including permethrin, and natural pyrethrins. However, although their mechanism of action is the same, it should be noted that pyrethrins are not as effective as pyrethroids. It is important to mention this so that you can consider this when choosing a suitable and effective product for your dog.
So the permethrin will be much more powerful and long-lasting than natural pyrethrins. These can be used successfully in certain circumstances when the presence of parasites is minimal, but they will not be used to control infestations. Furthermore, they are volatile and lose effectiveness when exposed to sunlight. As a product considered natural, it is not subject to the same controls as permethrin. This implies that there is no certainty about its use or its effects. On the other hand, permethrin can also be used to sanitize the house.
We can find permethrin for dogs in different formats. Perhaps the most popular and effective are pipettes, but they also appear as ingredients in necklaces, shampoos or sprays. It is not effective against intestinal worms in puppies.
Permethrin dose for dogs
It is very important, to avoid adverse effects, to determine the proper dose. To do this, it is essential weigh the dog and not trust our assumptions about your weight, as they are probably wrong. It's also important. take into account the concentration of permethrin of the product we will administer, as this may vary.
Pipettes, for example, can reach concentrations of up to 65%. This means that care must be taken to avoid mistakes and exceed the recommended dose. The veterinarian will indicate the most appropriate directions for use, as well as the correct dilution, in the case of shampoo or lotions that need to be diluted.
Permethrin contraindications for dogs
The use of permethrin is not recommended when the dog presents extensive skin lesions. Absorption can be increased through wounds, causing side effects. Be careful with small puppies as they seem more prone to adverse effects, although they usually disappear in about 12-24 hours. You should also be especially careful when using it on puppies, and always respect the veterinarian's instructions.
Permethrin side effects in dogs
Antiparasitic drugs such as permethrin are quite safe as long as they are used correctly. They are designed to act on the parasite and be harmless to the dog. Even in high concentrations they are still safe for this species, so it is very rare to see permethrin poisoning in dogs. If this happens, which is more likely if there is prolonged contact with a wound or inhalation, you may notice symptoms such as itching or hypersalivation, as this is a neuro and hepatotoxic substance. Paresis is also noted as a possible effect, although it is a tingling sensation that is difficult to detect in dogs.
In more severe cases, respiratory complications and spasms. Symptoms will take more or less time to appear depending on the concentration of the product applied, the dose, the route of contact or the characteristics of the dogs themselves. On the other hand, in rare cases, if the inhalation is persistent and the concentration is too high, respiratory paralysis that causes death can occur.
THE irritation of mucous membranes or skin is a little more frequent. Mild irritation may not have major repercussions, but the puppy can be disturbed to worrying limits if the irritation is severe. This is usually associated with prolonged contact with permethrin. The dog may scratch or bite itself to the point of serious injury. Usually only itching and redness are detected. If the mucous membranes in the nose or respiratory tract are affected, there may be a cough, and if damage occurs to the eyes, conjunctivitis will appear.
One accidental overdose it can also occur, especially when using products designed for heavier puppies in small puppies. In these small dogs, it is more common to see irritation with the administration of permethrin. Acute intoxication can be identified by symptoms such as vomiting, incoordination, weakness, diarrhea, etc. The recommendation is to wash the dog immediately with plenty of water and degreasing soap to remove as much of the product as possible, and contact the veterinarian. There is no specific antidote to the effects of permethrin. If there are symptoms, the veterinarian will stabilize the dog and give him the appropriate medications for his symptoms.
To avoid problems, use the antiparasitic recommended by your veterinarian and always following his indications regarding the administration schedule. And finally, remember that permethrin is toxic to cats and therefore it should never be administered to them. It is potentially deadly for those animals, who are unable to metabolize it. Remember this if you are going to use permethrin on your dog if he lives in the house with a feline. Cats can lick the product if they are used to cleaning the dog.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.