Mothballs are pesticides that slowly release a gas vapor to kill and repel moths (and their larvae) and other insects. The chemicals in mothballs can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or absorbed through the stomach and intestines of animals. Cats are more sensitive to the toxic effects of mothballs, but dogs are more likely…

Flea and tick collars vary in their active ingredient. Often, these collars contain amitraz (a chemical that is an alpha2-adrenergic agonist and monoamine oxidase inhibitor), organophosphates or carbamates, or pyrethrins/pyrethroids. Please see each individual active ingredient for more information. When flea and tick collars are accidentally ingested or applied to pets inappropriately, they can result…

There are over 1500 species of scorpions throughout the world (except Antarctica).The venom in scorpions is a mixture of neurotoxins, proteins, and polypeptides. Most scorpion stings result in minor, localized swelling, redness, and pain. However, a sting from the Arizona Bark Scorpion – the only North American scorpion with dangerously strong venom – can result…

Carbon monoxide is produced from the incomplete combustion of natural gas, petroleum fuel, wood, propane or charcoal. Common sources of carbon monoxide include smoke from house fire and exhaust fumes from a vehicle, furnace, stove, or generator. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless. When inhaled, carbon monoxide does not allow for normal movement of oxygen…

Most of the common flea and tick medications are topical drugs (applied to the skin over the neck/back) that contain pyrethrins or pyrethroids. Pyrethrins are a class of drugs derived from the Chrysanthemum flower/plant, while pyrethroids are synthetic derivatives. In cats, signs of poisoning include profuse drooling, vomiting, tremoring, hyperexcitability, agitation, seizures, weakness, and difficulty…