Is Organophosphates Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Organophosphates are severely toxic to both cats and dogs, causing nerve symptoms: drooling, tremors, pinpoint pupils, and seizures. Call a vet now.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Organophosphates?
Organophosphates are severely toxic to both cats and dogs, causing nerve symptoms: drooling, tremors, pinpoint pupils, and seizures. Call a vet now.
Also known as: OP, malathion, diazinon, chlorpyrifos, parathion, flea dip, organophosphate insecticide.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Excessive drooling and tearing (salivation and lacrimation)
- Frequent urination and diarrhea
- Muscle tremors and weakness
- Pinpoint (constricted) pupils
- In serious cases: seizures, breathing difficulty, collapse
🐈 In Cats
- Excessive drooling and tearing
- Frequent urination and diarrhea
- Muscle tremors and pinpoint pupils
- In serious cases: seizures, breathing difficulty, collapse
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline IMMEDIATELY — note the product and active ingredient.
- If skin exposure, bathe with mild soap and water (wear gloves).
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a veterinarian directs you to.
- Keep the pet calm and note the time of exposure.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Any organophosphate was ingested or absorbed
- Drooling, diarrhea, or muscle tremors appear
- Pinpoint pupils, seizures, or breathing difficulty
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the "SLUDGE" signs of organophosphate poisoning?
SLUDGE stands for Salivation, Lacrimation (tearing), Urination, Defecation, Gastrointestinal upset, and Emesis (vomiting). These happen because organophosphates overstimulate the nervous system by blocking the enzyme that normally switches off nerve signals. Pinpoint pupils and muscle tremors are also classic signs.
Where do pets encounter organophosphates?
Organophosphates are found in some older flea dips and sprays, agricultural insecticides, and garden pest controls (malathion, diazinon, chlorpyrifos). Many have been restricted for home use but are still used in agriculture. Pets can be exposed by ingesting bait, licking treated surfaces, or absorbing it through the skin.
Why is organophosphate poisoning an emergency?
Organophosphates act like nerve agents — they cause a runaway buildup of nerve signals that can lead to seizures, respiratory failure, and death. Treatment must start quickly and often involves atropine and other medications only a veterinarian can administer. Call a vet or poison hotline immediately.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11