Monitoring cases of pyrethroid intoxications in cats in Tirana region, Albania during 2016-2020
Abstract
Pyrethroids are synthetic insecticides which are being widely used to control fleas and ticks in house
hold pets. However, their use extends to pest control as well. Products used worldwide to protect pets are in liquid
form and comprise spot-ons, shampoos, and spray. Close attention should be paid to proper usage of such insecticides
in pets, particularly in cats. As already indicated by many studies, accidental or improper usage of such products can
trigger severe health problems even proving fatal in cats. The objective of the current paper is to undertake a retro
spective study of a total number of 47 cases suffering from pyrethroid intoxication in cats across several clinics in
Tirana, Albania during the period 2016-2020. Records from the veterinary clinics were closely scrutinized with only
specific cases of pyrethroid intoxication being included for the purposes of this study. The main clinical signs which
were noticed in 47 cats included symptoms such as tremor/muscle fasciculation (37 cats; 76.6%), seizures (18; 38.3%),
hyperaesthesia (19; 40.43%), ptyalism (13; 27.66%), ataxia (11; 23.4%), mydriasis (10; 21.28%). Out of 47 cases, 7 or
14.9 % of the treated cats did not survive. The outcome was solid after rapid interventions in 31 (65.96%) cats with the
exception of 2 cats which did not survive dispide receiving treatment. Whereas as many as 16 (34.04%) of cats, having
being taken late to the clinics, survived upon receiving treatment, while as few as 5 cats (31.25%) died. Awareness
campaign targeting pet owners, owner education, appropriate product labelling and consultations with veterinarians
may help eliminate this problem in the future.
Article Details
- How to Cite
-
Mavromati, J., & Mehmedi, B. (2023). Monitoring cases of pyrethroid intoxications in cats in Tirana region, Albania during 2016-2020. Journal of the Hellenic Veterinary Medical Society, 74(3), 6023–6028. https://doi.org/10.12681/jhvms.30680
- Issue
- Vol. 74 No. 3 (2023)
- Section
- Research Articles
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