Pets and pesticides: Protect your cat and dog safely
Exposure to pesticides and the toxins they contain poses a risk to cats and dogs year-round, but it is especially high in spring and summer when gardening activities increase.
Pesticides come in many forms and appear in a wide variety of household and garden products, often unnoticed by pet owners. Although most pets never suffer ill effects, each year several become sick through exposure, which can sometimes be fatal if untreated.
Read on to understand what pesticides are, which common products contain them, symptoms of poisoning, and practical steps to safeguard your pet.
What are pesticides?
Pesticides are chemical substances or microorganisms designed to deter, kill or neutralise pests and parasites. They have legitimate beneficial uses in pet care, such as flea spot-on treatments and mite control. However, they are most commonly used in gardening and agriculture to protect plants and crops from weeds, insects, and other pests.
Because pesticides disrupt pest nervous systems, they can adversely affect other animals, including cats and dogs, especially if ingested or absorbed in sufficient quantities.
Common products containing pesticides
Many garden and household products contain pesticides, including ant bait, slug pellets, weed killers, insect sprays targeting aphids or greenfly, and some fertilizers and bark chips.
Be cautious: labels stating “environmentally friendly” or “green” rarely mean pesticide-free. Always check ingredients carefully, especially for carbamates and organophosphates, which can suppress the nervous system and cause severe poisoning symptoms like seizures.
How pets typically encounter pesticides
Direct ingestion by pets is unusual, but they can be exposed by eating plants or grass treated with pesticides, or by picking up sticks or toys from treated areas.
Walking or playing on pesticide-treated ground is the most common exposure, as toxins can transfer to the pet’s coat and be ingested through grooming. Cats are especially vulnerable due to their meticulous licking habits.
Signs of pesticide poisoning in cats and dogs
Symptoms usually occur within hours of exposure and include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, abdominal discomfort, trembling, joint stiffness, seizures, and in severe cases, collapse.
If you notice these signs, consult your vet urgently. Bring any suspected pesticide product packaging with you to assist diagnosis and treatment.
Six practical tips to protect your pet from pesticides
- Careful product selection: Only buy pest control products from reputable sources and avoid those with hazardous ingredients.
- Safe storage: Keep all pesticides securely stored out of your pet’s reach.
- Washing after walks: If your dog walks in unknown areas, rinse or wipe paws and coat to remove residues.
- Check public areas: Before dog walks, find out if pesticides have been applied in local parks or fields.
- Choose pet-friendly options: Opt for non-toxic pest control methods where possible.
- Monitor your pet: Watch for any sudden health changes after outdoor time.
What to do if your pet is exposed to pesticides
If you suspect your cat or dog has come into contact with pesticides, act quickly:
- Contact your vet immediately for urgent advice.
- If possible, bring the product packaging to speed diagnosis.
- You may also phone a pet poison control helpline for guidance.
Early treatment can be lifesaving, so do not delay.
By understanding pesticides and taking simple precautions, you can help keep your beloved pets safe while enjoying your garden and outdoor spaces responsibly.
