What is amitraz?
Amitraz is a topical insecticide used to control ticks, mites, and other parasites. It is found in flea collars, sprays, dips, and other topical spot-on or pour-on products for many animals, including dogs and many farm animals. It is also found in products used to control parasites on various crops.
Small dogs, puppies, older dogs, and thin-skinned dogs are more sensitive amitraz. Larger, healthy dogs can experience amitraz poisoning if they are exposed in a way that the product is not designed for, such as ingesting a topical treatment or flea collar, or if they are given a treatment that is intended for another species.
What should I do if my dog is accidentally exposed to amitraz?
If you think your dog has ingested amitraz or received an overdose of amitraz, immediately contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 pet poison center, at 1-800-213-6680.
Do not induce vomiting or give anything to your dog orally unless your veterinarian specifically directs you to do so. When possible, put the product package into a sealed plastic bag and take it with you to the veterinary clinic for identification.
What are the clinical signs of amitraz poisoning?
Signs of amitraz poisoning include:
- Sedation/lethargy
- Stumbling or wobbly gait (ataxia)
- Low heart rate (bradycardia)
- High or low blood pressure (hypertension or hypotension)
- High blood sugar level (hyperglycemia)
- Low temperature (hypothermia)
- Seizures
- Coma
- Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloated abdomen
- Dilated pupils (mydriasis)
How is amitraz poisoning diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on a history of amitraz exposure and development of clinical signs consistent with amitraz. General diagnostics include vital signs and blood work. There are specific tests for amitraz that are sent out to laboratories, but these tests are generally not necessary for treatment. Radiographs (X-rays) may reveal the presence of a flea collar material, but not all types of material can be seen on radiographs, so treatment should not solely depend on radiograph findings.
How is amitraz poisoning treated?
Treatment includes decontamination, which is based on product, route of exposure, and clinical signs present and may include bathing, decontamination, endoscopy, or surgical removal. Other treatments include antidote administration and supportive care.
What is the prognosis?
Minimally symptomatic dogs receiving prompt and aggressive care generally have a good prognosis. Those with severe cardiovascular or neurologic signs have a guarded (uncertain) prognosis.
How can I prevent amitraz poisoning?
Only use parasite prevention that your veterinarian has recommended. Avoid using amitraz-containing products in dogs that are more sensitive.
Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.
