There has been a rise in the number of poisoning cases in cats due to the inappropriate use of non veterinary “Spot On” flea treatments for dogs, purchased from pet shops and supermarkets.

Although "spot on" is used to describe a method of application, it is also commonly used as an all-encompassing term for flea treatments, leading to confusion among pet owners.

Unfortunately, "spot on" flea treatments in supermarkets and pet shops are being mistakenly purchased to put on cats when, in fact, they are only suitable for dogs.  One of the ingredients contained in these "spot on's" is poisonous to cats.  The introduction of "spot on" wormers has led to further confusion. 

More worrying is the number of pet owners who either do not seek advice from their vet on appropriate flea treatment for their pet or never treat their pet for fleas.

For the well being of your pet, the best advice is to consult your vet .

Find out more about fleas here. 

 Update: BBC news now has a report about this too:  Cats 'killed by flea treatment'