Permethrin is an antiparasitic product which, as such, can be found in different formats that share the goal of killing fleas, ticks or mites. In this article on our site we are going to talk specifically about 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 adverse effects.
Keep reading and discover with us everything you need to know about permethrin in dogs, but remember that it is always advisable to consult with the veterinarian which is the most suitable antiparasitic for your dog.
What is permethrin for dogs?
Permethrin is an antiparasitic substance used in both human and veterinary medicine. It acts mainly by contact. It belongs to the group of pyrethroids, which are broad-spectrum synthetic compounds, that is, they will be active against different parasites. They are analogs of natural pyrethrins that work as insect and mite repellents and are extracted from well-known flowers such as chrysanthemums. Its mechanism of action, both in pyrethroids and pyrethrins, is based on affecting the nervous transmission of certain parasites, to the point of causing paralysis and, finally, death.
You have to know that it is a widely used product and since the 1970s, which means that permethrin in dogs is not always as effective as we would like, since parasites can develop resistance. This would imply that permethrin would no longer be effective or would have very low efficacy against them. Bearing this in mind, if we do not observe the desired effectiveness, it is a good idea to use another antiparasitic product that the veterinarian recommends. Other times the products add some substance to improve this aspect. This problem is relatively common with fleas.
Uses of permethrin in dogs
Permethrin for dogs is used against ticks, fleas, mites, lice and flies All of them are so-called external parasites, since that it is possible to visualize them on the dog. We have discussed the relationship between synthetic pyrethroids, including permethrin, and natural pyrethrins, but, although their mechanism of action is the same, it should be noted that pyrethrins do not have the same efficacy as pyrethroids. It is worth noting it so that we take it into account when choosing a suitable and effective product for our dog.
Thus, permethrin will be much more powerful and with a longer-lasting effect than natural pyrethrins These can be used successfully in certain circumstances in which the presence of parasites is minimal, but they will not serve to control infestations. Furthermore, they are volatile and lose effectiveness when exposed to sunlight. Being a product considered natural, it is not subject to the same controls as permethrin. This implies that there is no safety about its use or its effects. On the other hand, permethrin can also be used to home sanitizing
We can find permethrin for dogs in different formats. Perhaps the most popular and effective are pipettes, but it also appears as an ingredient in necklaces and shampoos or sprays. It is not effective against internal parasites.
Permethrin Dosage in Dogs
It is very important, to avoid adverse effects, to determine the appropriate dose. To do this, it is essential to weigh the dog and not rely on our assumptions about its weight, which are likely to be wrong. It is also important to take into account the concentration of permethrin of the product that we are going to administer, as this may vary. For example, pipettes can reach concentrations of up to 65%. This means that care must be taken to avoid errors that exceed the recommended dose. The veterinarian will indicate the most appropriate guidelines for use, as well as the correct dilution, in the case of shampoos that need it.
Contraindications of permethrin in dogs
The use of permethrin is not recommended when the dog has extensive skin lesions Through wounds, absorption could be increased, causing side effects. With small dogs, care must be taken, as they seem more likely to experience adverse effects, although these usually resolve within 12-24 hours. You must also be especially careful with its use in puppies and always respect the instructions of the veterinarian.
Permethrin Side Effects in Dogs
Dewormers such as permethrin are quite safe, as long as they are used correctly. They are studied so that they act on the parasite and are harmless to the dog. Even at high concentrations they are usually still safe for this species, which is why it is very rare to see a permethrin poisoning in dogs If it occurs, which is more likely if there is prolonged contact, with a wound or inhalation, we may detect signs such as scratching or hypersalivation, since it 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 the most severe cases, there may be 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 dog itself. On the other hand, in rare cases, if inhalation is persistent and the concentration is very high, there could be respiratory paralysis causing death.
Yes, the irritation of the mucous membranes or skin is somewhat more frequent A slight irritation may not have major repercussions, but a dog can become restless to a worrying extent if the irritation is serious. This is usually related to prolonged contact with permethrin. The dog could scratch or bite itself to the point of serious injury. Normally, only itching and redness is detected. If the nasal or respiratory mucous membranes have been affected, there may be a cough and, if the damage occurs in the eyes, conjunctivitis will appear.
An accidental overdosemay also occur, especially in small dogs where products designed for heavier dogs are used. In this type of small dog it is more common to see irritations at the point of permethrin administration. An acute poisoning will be identified by symptoms such as vomiting, incoordination, weakness, diarrhoea, etc. The recommendation is to wash the dog immediately with plenty of water and anti-grease soap to remove as much of the product as possible and contact the veterinarian. There is no specific antidote for the effects of permethrin. If symptoms occur, the veterinarian will stabilize the dog and give it the appropriate medication for the signs it presents.
To avoid problems, use the antiparasitic that the veterinarian recommends and always follow his instructions regarding the administration schedule. Finally, remember that permethrin is toxic to cats and therefore should never be administered to them. It is potentially deadly for them. They are not able to metabolize it as well as dogs. Keep this in mind if you are going to use it for your dog and at home you live with a feline. Cats may lick the product if they tend to groom the dog.
