Safety concerns about pyrethrin flea shampoo

Findings from the Childhood Autism Risks from Genetics and the Environment study, funded by the US National Institutes of Health, have raised the possibility that pyrethrins found in pet shampoos are linked to an increased risk of autism.

Mothers who used flea treatments containing pyrethrin-based flea shampoos while pregnant were found to be twice as likely to have a child with an autistic spectrum disorder as those who did not.¹

The scientists who undertook the research have emphasised that the findings remain preliminary. While veterinary on-animal and household flea products have undergone extensive testing for safety and efficacy, history dictates that parental reactions, like those seen with MMR inoculations, could potentially lead to a welfare situation, caused by worried pet owners abandoning their flea control regime over fears about pesticide use.

Anxiety about the use of pesticides in the home is actually nothing new. A survey carried out in 2007, showed that two out of three pet owners were concerned about safety when using a pesticide-based flea spray in their homes.²

Against this background, CEVA Animal Health is promoting its product, Skoosh, which uses inert silicones, commonly used in skin creams, make up, head lice lotions and oral medications, to physically engulf the fleas. The company claims it is not only effective against mature fleas, eggs and larvae but also physically prevents the hatching and development of pupae, which are not affected by traditional household sprays.

For further information telephone Lucy Brett on 01494 781510 or visit www.skooshthefleas.com

References

¹ Insecticides in pet shampoo may trigger autism.
² VBD Market Survey, January 2007

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