Is Permethrin (Flea Treatment) Toxic to Rabbits?

Permethrin is a common ingredient in DOG flea treatments that is extremely toxic to cats. It is the #1 cause of feline poisoning from flea products. Even residue from a treated dog can poison a cat that grooms it.

Quick Answer

Yes, permethrin (flea treatment) is toxic to rabbits. LETHAL to cats — safe for dogs but NEVER cats. Permethrin is a common ingredient in DOG flea treatments that is extremely toxic to cats. It is the #1 cause of feline poisoning from flea products. Even residue from a treated dog can poison a cat that grooms it. Watch for symptoms like muscle tremors and twitching and seizures.

Emergency

If your rabbit was exposed, contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Symptoms to Watch For

Muscle tremors and twitching
Seizures
Hypersalivation
Difficulty breathing
Death without treatment

Timeline

Symptoms typically appear within 1-12 hours of exposure.

Treatment

EMERGENCY VET immediately for cats
Wash off any product with warm water and dish soap
Anti-seizure medication
IV fluids and supportive care
Muscle relaxants (methocarbamol)

Prevention

NEVER use dog flea products on cats
Check ALL flea product labels for permethrin
Separate treated dogs from cats until product is dry
Use only cat-specific flea treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

Is permethrin (flea treatment) toxic to rabbits?▼

LETHAL to cats — safe for dogs but NEVER cats. Permethrin is a common ingredient in DOG flea treatments that is extremely toxic to cats. It is the #1 cause of feline poisoning from flea products. Even residue from a treated dog can poison a cat that grooms it.

What happens if my rabbit is exposed to permethrin (flea treatment)?▼

Symptoms include: Muscle tremors and twitching; Seizures; Hypersalivation. Symptoms typically appear within 1-12 hours of exposure.

What should I do if my rabbit ingested permethrin (flea treatment)?▼

EMERGENCY VET immediately for cats. Wash off any product with warm water and dish soap. Anti-seizure medication.

How can I protect my rabbit from permethrin (flea treatment)?▼

NEVER use dog flea products on cats. Check ALL flea product labels for permethrin. Separate treated dogs from cats until product is dry. Use only cat-specific flea treatments.