Toxicity to pets

Amitraz is an ectoparasiticide (kills fleas, ticks, etc.) used in veterinary products. This chemical is an alpha2-adrenergic agonist and monoamine oxidase inhibitor. When accidentally ingested or applied to pets inappropriately, it can result in severe clinical signs of the central nervous system (e.g., lethargy, walking drunk, dilated pupils, seizures, coma), gastrointestinal system (e.g., drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating), and cardiac system (e.g., slowed heart rate, low or high blood pressure). Treatment includes veterinary attention for the antidote (e.g., atipamazole, yohimbine), blood pressure monitoring, IV fluids, and symptomatic supportive care. Immediate veterinary attention should be sought.