What is Amitraz Toxicity?
- This is toxicity that occurs in relation to Amitraz use.
- Toxicity from wearing a flea and tick collar is rare.
- Severe cases of toxicity usually occur when dogs ingest the insecticide.
- Curious puppies are commonly the ones who get Amitraz toxicity.
Amitraz Side Effects
The symptoms or the side effects of Amitraz on dogs usually appear within 2 to 6 hours after ingestion.
- Vomiting
- Staggering
- Uncoordinated movements
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Disorientation
Veterinary care is recommended in cases of Amitraz toxicity. If not treated, the toxicity can lead to serious consequences.
- Coma
- Death
Diagnosis
- Physical Checkup – Looks at the symptoms. Vomit may also be checked for pieces of flea collar.
- Radiography of Stomach Contents – Checks for presence of flea collar
- Tissue Samples – This is usually done as more of a supporting test that shows Amitraz in the tissues.
Treatment
- Inducing Vomiting – Done to help remove remaining pieces of flea collar
- Gastric Lavage – May be necessary to remove the remaining flea collar pieces from the stomach
- Activated Charcoal – Helps to stop the further absorption of Amitraz
- Yohimbine – This helps reverse some of the effects of Amitraz
- Intravenous fluid therapy for dehydrated dogs
- Vets would most likely recommend the hospitalization for the dogs
Preventing Amitraz Poisoning
Keep Amitraz Products Safely Stored – Store them away from a dog’s reach, especially from puppies. Avoid Using Amitraz When Possible – Amitraz is very effective, but if owners who have a lot of puppies at home might want to consider alternatives. There are many flea and tick products that do not use this as its main insecticide.