Pesticides can affect cats and dogs, National Library of Medicine claims.
While they don't always damage their health quickly, they can lead to various health problems, especially later in life.
Here's how it happens.
Ingestion
Pets can accidentally ingest pesticides by licking or eating treated plants, contaminated soil, or food and water that has been exposed to pesticides.
Ingesting pesticides can lead to symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, neurological issues, and in severe cases, organ damage or failure.
Skin contact
Pesticides can be absorbed through a pet's skin, leading to irritation, rashes, or chemical burns.
Inhalation
Pets can inhale pesticides if they are used in spray or aerosol form, or if they are used in confined spaces without proper ventilation.
Allergic reactions
Just like humans, pets may experience symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock can occur, which is a life-threatening emergency.
Poisoning
Certain active ingredients found in pesticides can be highly toxic if ingested or absorbed, leading to poisoning.
Long-term health effects
Chronic exposure to low levels of pesticides over time can potentially have cumulative effects on a pet's health.
It may contribute to the development of chronic illnesses, such as cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, or neurological disorders.
