ORGANOPHOSPHATE AND CARBAMATE POISONING
General Information:
Organophosphates and carbamates are insecticides
that are widely used for killing fleas and ticks on dogs and cats
and other parasites on plants. Pets may become poisoned with these
chemicals through improper use or by accidental ingestion or inhalation.
In rare cases, an individual animal may have a peculiar sensitivity
to a specific insecticide that has been properly applied.
Organophosphates and carbamates make pets sick by
preventing the normal breakdown of substances (neurotransmitters)
that cause transmission of nerve impulses to muscles and organs.
The result is over-stimulation of these structures.
Signs of toxicity include:
Occasionally, these poisonings are fatal.
Treatment Information:
- Hospitalization is necessary in severe cases.
Heavy sedation may be necessary to control seizures. Some animals
require intensive life-support measures such as intravenous catheter
placement and the administration of intravenous fluids, etc.
- There is an antidote available to counteract
the poisonous effects of organophosphates and carbamates, if treatment is begun early enough.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest
for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your
veterinarian's office, or feel free to
e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC
