Flea collars are impregnated with certain chemicals, such as organophosphates, which have been associated with cases of poisoning in pets. These special collars are often used in cats and dogs to offer protection or eliminate flea infestation. However, wearing flea collars can increase an animal’s risk to overexposure to these harmful chemicals. Most cases of toxicity occur as a result of product misuse or when a dog or cat is exposed to two or more types of chemicals in insecticides at the same time.

The adverse side effects of organophosphates often depend on the type and amount of insecticide the animal has been exposed to. The general symptoms reflect the effect of the chemicals on the nerves and muscles.

Common symptoms of organophosphate poisoning in dogs and cats include:

•    Drooling
•    Vomiting
•    Diarrhea
•    Muscle weakness
•    Difficulty breathing
•    Trembling
•    Constriction of the pupils

Organophosphate poisoning can be fatal, so if your pet is showing these symptoms after being exposed to organophosphate-containing products, make a visit to your Las Vegas, NV animal hospital immediately.