Never use a dog flea or tick treatment on a cat. Some dog products contain concentrated permethrin, which is highly toxic to cats and can cause severe poisoning.
Read the species label every time
Cats Protection warns that permethrin dog flea products are toxic to cats. Similar-looking packs can contain different active ingredients and strengths. Check the animal species, weight range, age limit, dose and expiry before opening any parasite product.
Prevent indirect contact
A cat can be exposed by grooming a recently treated dog, sharing bedding, contacting a spill or brushing against wet treatment. Follow the product’s separation and drying instructions. Store dog and cat medicines apart, ideally in clearly labelled closed containers.
Treat possible exposure as urgent
Call a veterinary practice immediately if the wrong product was applied or contact may have occurred, even before symptoms. Give the exact brand, active ingredient, strength, time and route of exposure. Do not bathe or induce vomiting unless the clinic instructs you because handling can delay or complicate care.
Keep packaging for the clinic
Take the box, leaflet and remaining pipette in a sealed bag. A quiet retreat such as the Koda Pod is not appropriate if it hides a cat who needs monitoring; prepare the carrier and follow emergency instructions.
Sources and further reading
Guidance checked 13 September 2026.
