Parasites, which hardly any dog can escape, are not only annoying. They can also transmit pathogens for sometimes life-threatening diseases.
Depending on the illness permethrin for dogs help.
The following lines will tell you exactly what you need to consider when using, dosing and possible side effects.
Permethrin for dogs: what is it and what is it used for?
Permethrin for dogs is an active ingredient that is used to combat or prevent an active parasite infestation.
He is found in the Spot-on Exspot for dogs, among others.
The special thing about permethrin is that the active ingredient also deters sand flies.
Especially if you are traveling with your dog in southern Europe, you should consider this active ingredient.
Because here sandflies are a real nuisance, especially in spring and summer.
They are considered the main carriers of the leishmaniasis pathogen, which can be life-threatening for dogs.
Permethrin is a so-called synthetic pyrethroid and belongs to the group of insecticides.
It attacks the nerve cell membranes of ectoparasites, including mosquitoes, mites, fleas and ticks.
This attack disturbs the coordination of the parasites, and they die as a result.
Proper use and dosage of permethrin in dogs
The correct dosage of permethrin for dogs is 50 mg permethrin per kilogram of body weight.
Since the active ingredient is usually contained in a spot-on, it may be necessary to give several ampoules of the antiparasitic at the same time, especially in the case of large and heavy dogs.
While one ampoule is always applied between the shoulder blades, further ampules are dripped down the spine towards the base of the dog’s tail.
Refrain from giving and dosing permethrin to the dog on its own. Treatments with the active ingredient must first be approved by the veterinarian.
Important
Cats should never be treated with permethrin. Because the active ingredient is deadly for the velvet paws.
After using permethrin, avoid cuddling your dog for 24 hours. He shouldn’t be sleeping in your bed either.
For multi-dog households, the treated dogs should not have close contact with each other for 24 hours to avoid licking off permethrin.
Cats should be even less likely to be found near a dog treated with permethrin to avoid a possible toxic reaction beforehand.
How fast does permethrin work in dogs?
It takes about 24 hoursuntil the effect of permethrin on the dog has fully developed.
The effect of permethrin then lasts between 2 and 4 weeks, so it should be repeated after this time.
What side effects can permethrin cause in dogs?
Permethrin can cause a variety of side effects in dogs, including: diarrhea, vomiting and increased salivation belong.
Paralysis and convulsions have also been observed as side effects in some dogs.
Can permethrin cause poisoning in dogs?
In fact, permethrin can lead to poisoning in dog breeds that suffer from the MDR1 gene defect.
These breeds include, but are not limited to, the Australian Shepherd and Border Collie, as well as any dog bred to be a merle coloration.
The MDR1 gene defect can ensure that permethrin and other active ingredients are fatal to the dog in the worst case.
Typical symptoms of permethrin poisoning in dogs are: signs of paralysis and cramps.
Other symptoms that you can use to identify permethrin poisoning in dogs are breathing difficulties, fainting spells and dilated pupils.
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Our tip
For a dog with merle colouration, the spot-on «Stronghold» for dogs, which contains the merle-compatible active ingredient selamectin, is ideal.
When should I not use permethrin on dogs?
An application of permethrin is excluded in dogs that weigh less than 1.2 kilograms or are less than 8 weeks old are.
You should also make sure that you do not use permethrin together with other insecticides if they are not already included in Exspot, for example.
The insecticides that can interact with permethrin include other active ingredients that belong to the pyrethroids.
Where is permethrin for dogs available?
You will receive medication and spot-ons with permethrin exclusively in (online) pharmacies.
A prescription from your veterinarian is required to purchase it, as permethrin is a prescription drug.
What alternatives are there to permethrin for dogs?
If you don’t have to be afraid of sandflies, then you can a spot-on like NexGard for dogs an alternative to permethrin.
On the other hand, if you are planning a holiday in the sunny south, Frontline Tri-Act can be an alternative for the dog.
With the alternatives, it is important that they are always tailored to the current parasite situation.
It does not always make sense to want to cover the entire spectrum of parasites. Because it is usually associated with several potentially risky spot-on drugs.
Discuss with your veterinarian which alternatives make sense for your dog to avoid unnecessary side effects.
Has your dog had to experience permethrin? We’d love for you to share your experiences and tips with us in the comments.