Q:I had to rush my cat Ginger to the emergency hospital when I found her shaking violently after I got home from work. My husband called and explained that he had used the dog's flea medicine on her. Ginger's doing better now but we had a pretty good scare. Could you discuss this in your column so other owners don't suffer like we did?
A: You don't mention the name of the product and that's just as well -- I don't like to name names when so many products on the market could have easily had this effect.
Cats are not small dogs. Their bodies can react very differently to seemingly harmless products. In this case, it's best to call your vet's office before using any over-the-counter flea and tick medication. And when you buy products at the vet's office, make sure they know which pet it's for. This includes shampoos, dips and sprays, not just the tiny tubes used for monthly ''spot'' treatment.
Most products are labeled ''for cats'' or ''for dogs and cats,'' or my favorite: ''NOT FOR USE IN CATS!'' The most responsible manufacturers will include this information in prominent letters on the label as well as on individual tubes included within the packaging.
If you notice you've applied the wrong product on your cat, call your vet and tell him what product you used and how the pet looks. The ASPCA's Animal Poison Control will also help you immediately (for a very reasonable fee) at 888-426-4435.
Often, the first advice you will receive with these products is to wash it off. Even if your pet has begun to show signs of illness, remove the product immediately with warm water and dishwashing detergent (Dawn is my favorite for this).
The next step is to run to the vet's or emergency hospital. They will generally administer intravenous fluids, possibly a anti-seizure medication and an antidote in the case of some specific toxins. While recovery is never guaranteed, immediate medical attention is required.
