Is Seresto Collar Really Safe For Cats?8 Questions Answered

The Seresto flea collar is a common choice for cat owners desperate for fast and effective action against fleas. However, there are also some concerns that it might not be as safe as we would hope. So, should you use this collar, and what are the risks?

Will Seresto Kill Existing Fleas On Cats

Let’s start with the action and potential reliability of this collar for the problem at hand. The substance Imidacloprid does have the potential to kill existing fleas within 24 hours. The double-action of the imidacloprid and the flumethrin makes it even more effective for repelling and killing both fleas and ticks. Although fast-acting on existing fleas, owners are recommended to use the collar for up to eight months. This is said to be the longest-lasting option on the market. It should only take a couple of hours for any new fleas to die, eliminating their chances of reproducing and causing further damage.

Do Vets Recommend Seresto

This is an interesting question. Opinions can vary on the use of such a potent collar because of the impact on the fleas but also the potential side effects for the cat. The best thing that you can do in this situation is to ask your vet for their personal opinion and any guidance on using the product. They may be more than happy to use this themselves and full of helpful tips. Or, they may point you in the direction of something else.

Is Seresto Collar Safe for Cats

In the best-case scenario, your cat should be able to wear this collar with ease and experience the benefits long-term. The right product will be effective for killing and repelling those pests and the cat shouldn’t be that bothered by it. However, there are cases of side effects and there are always risks with this sort of treatment. You have to go by your vet’s guidance and best judgment when using any flea collar on your cat.

What Happens if My Cat Licks Her Flea Collar

This is where things can get a lot more dangerous. The way that this medication works is that it comes into contact with the skin, applying safe levels of the substances topically with no risk. This is not made for ingestion, so there is a risk that cats could get sick if they were to lick their collar. The design of these collars means that cats should not be able to lick their own collar. A poorly fitted collar could slip off and become an issue that way. Another issue to watch out for is if you have two cats that like to groom each other.

Is Seresto Collar Toxic

There is a toxicity risk with Seresto collars because of the use of insecticides and the potency of the formula so, it is important to watch out for the following side effects.

  • A rash on the skin, possibly with related itching and pawing at the skin or a loss of fur
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea due to ingestion of the substance
  • Excessive drooling.
  • Difficult walking, with poor coordination or weakness in the limbs
  • Tremors and seizures
  • Excessive fatigue

If you notice any of these after fitting a Seresto collar on your cat – or any other flea collar – take them to your vet. There is the risk that Organophosphate toxicity could develop rapidly and even become fatal. It all depends on the ingredients included and the level of exposure. Don’t run the risk of things becoming even worse. If the vet confirms the issue, make sure to remove all collars from your pets and dispose of them responsibly.

Is Seresto Safe For Humans to Touch

There is much less of a risk to humans with these collars. However, it is important to be aware that the EPA has found that these collars may cause some slight skin irritation. This isn’t anything to be alarmed about as it shouldn’t trigger allergic reactions. But, keep it in mind when applying the collar and make sure that you don’t let your kids handle them.

How to Apply and Remove a Seresto Collar from a Cat

If you do decide that this is still the best option for your pet, you need to know the best way to fit the collar and remove it at the end of the treatment. Keep these points in mind.

  • It is essential that you follow the guidance in the Seresto Manual and secure the fastening appropriately.
  • The collar also needs to be the right fit.
  • It should be tight enough so that the loose end feeds through the clasp at the end for that secure closure.
  • You should also be able to fit two fingers between the collar and the cat’s neck.
  • If it is too tight, you run the risk of injury or restricted breathing.
  • If it is too loose, it might not make contact with the skin and it could become caught or pulled off.

There are lots of cat owners that have struggled to remove this collar after use. There is no easy way to deal with the clasp, which adds to its security during the duration of the treatment. The best thing to do is just to hold your cat securely and cut the collar off with scissors. It seems brutal but it is the fastest and most effective option.

Are There Fake Seresto Collars?

Finally, be aware that there are some dodgy counterfeit products on the market. They may appear as cheaper options that look pretty much the same in online listings. But, there is a good chance that they won’t be as safe or effective.

Conclusion

In the end, you have to go with your own best judgment when it comes to these collars. Some cat owners swear by them and others that are more cautious because of the risk of toxicity and the potency of the insecticides. If you decide to give it a try, make sure to fir the collar well and watch out for those side effects.