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I accidentally put dog flea medicine on my cat. Will she be okay?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

I have accidentally you flea treatment meant for dogs on my cat. It says it is for small dogs and puppies on the back. Will my cat be ok?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2017

Cats are exquisitely sensitive to flea treatments, so there is a potential this could cause problems in Monty. I would wash him off thoroughly with warm water and Dawn dish soap. Watch him for signs of toxicity which include excessive salivation, paw flicking, ear twitching, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, incoordination, and muscle tremors. If you see any of those, rush Monty into a vet immediately.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 29th, 2019

    Hi Carole. Cats are exquisitely sensitive to flea mediation, especially an overdose. Wash it off of her thoroughly. Signs to watch for include muscle tremors, vomiting, difficulty breathing, weakness, drooling, falling over, diarrhea, and small pupils. If you see any of those signs, take Tess into a vet immediately.

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