CAT owners in West Devon have been warned about the perils of using flea treatments on their pets following a close encounter with death for two young cats. Okeford Veterinary Centre in Okehampton, which recently treated the cats, wants to make other cat owning clients aware of how an easy mistake could have lethal consequences. One evening, the owner of young cats Molly and Milly found both the animals had fleas. The owner found left over flea treatment in the cupboard and used it on the pets to tackle the problem. Unfortunately, the instructions were not read fully and the flea product used was intended for use with dogs not cats, in fact, the active ingredient is very toxic to cats. At midnight, the vets practice was contacted as both Molly and Milly were trembling all over. A vet examined them both and seeing how poorly they were it was advised they should stay in the surgery for treatment. Vet Charlie Withers said: ?Molly and Milly were both sedated to prevent them trembling and fitting. This was maintained through the night. ?Molly responded very well to the treatment and by the next morning was returning to her usual bright self. ?Milly on the other hand was still trembling and twitching despite the treatment so we had to give her a slightly stronger sedative. ?This new sedative stopped Milly fitting but it did have a very prolonged effect. We were very worried as she was not at all responsive. ?At this time it was thought she may not recover. To keep her warm she was placed in an incubator, similar to those used in a human hospital to keep babies warm. ?Over the next 24 hours, she gradually started to respond to people until by 48 hours later she was ready to go home.? Charlie added: ?Luckily for Molly and Milly they pulled through this, but other cats have not. ?Please read the information leaflets supplied with your flea treatments and if you are at all unsure please ask your vet who will be more than happy to give advice.?
