Disrupts sodium channel function in arthropod nervous systems, causing sustained depolarization, paralysis, and death of fleas, ticks, and other ectoparasites; dogs metabolize pyrethroids safely via glucuronidation
At a glance
Class
Synthetic pyrethroid insecticide/acaricide
Storage
Below 30°C, protect from heat and flame
Dosing
Flea and tick prevention and treatment
Duration: Seasonal or year-round prevention
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
USE IN CATS — FATAL TOXICITY
Cats cannot glucuronidate pyrethroids; even small amounts cause tremors, seizures, death
Adverse effects
Common
Local skin irritation
Transient pruritus at application site
Serious
Tremors, seizures, death IN CATS
Salivation if ingested
Efficacy of flea/tick controlSkin irritation at application siteKeep cats separated from treated dogs
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Vectra 3D (combination)
Ceva
Advantix (imidacloprid+permethrin)
Bayer/Elanco
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Permethrin?
Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide/acaricide used in pets. Disrupts sodium channel function in arthropod nervous systems, causing sustained depolarization, paralysis, and death of fleas, ticks, and other ectoparasites; dogs metabolize pyrethroids safely via glucuronidation
›What is Permethrin used for in pets?
Permethrin is used in veterinary medicine for: Flea and tick prevention and treatment.
›What is the Permethrin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Permethrin is typically dosed as follows — Flea and tick prevention and treatment: 10–65 mg/kg topical (spot-on) Every 2–4 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Permethrin?
Common: Local skin irritation, Transient pruritus at application site. Serious (call your vet immediately): Tremors, seizures, death IN CATS, Salivation if ingested.
›Does Permethrin need a prescription?
Permethrin is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
›When should Permethrin not be used?
Do not use Permethrin if: USE IN CATS — FATAL TOXICITY.
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
Cypermethrin high Cis
M/s Hindustan ciba geigy ltd · Approved 16.09.1996
For the control of tick flies lice and mites on cattle sheep dogs and poultry
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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