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Treating pyrethrin toxicosis in cats with methocarbamol | VETgirl Veterinary CE Videos

In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education video, we demonstrate how to treat pyrethrin toxicosis in cats using methocarbamol, a centrally-acting muscle relaxant. This was a 2-year-old, MC, DSHA that presented for secondary exposure to a high concentration canine flea and tick topical spot-on. The cat commonly slept with and groomed a companion canine in the household and developed clinical signs 24 hours after application to the dog.

Pyrethrins and their synthetic derivative, pyrethroids, are commonly found in household insect sprays and insecticides (e.g., permethrin, cypermethrin, cyphenothrin, etc.). Signs of systemic toxicosis in cats include GI signs (e.g., hypersalivation, vomiting, nausea), neurologic signs (e.g., disorientation, weakness, hyperexcitability, tremors, seizures) and respiratory signs (e.g., tachypnea, dyspnea). Tremors are extremely responsive to methocarbamol (22-220 mg/kg, IV PRN to effect), a centrally acting muscle relaxant, although oral absorption of methocarbamol is often slower in onset of action. In VETgirl’s opinion, it’s okay to exceed the “maximum” dose of 330 mg/kg/day that is listed for methocarbamol; this is based off the amount of propylene glycol in the methocarbamol and typically does not result in any clinical concerns. Don’t forget: once you stop the tremors, you need to dermally decontaminate the patient. This should be performed after stabilization, ideally under sedation. This should be performed with a liquid dish detergent (e.g., Dawn, Palmolive). Supportive care including the monitoring and maintenance of hydration, body temperature and blood glucose levels are necessary. The prognosis is excellent with aggressive dermal decontamination and treatment. This cat did well with treatment.

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