INSECTICIDE FOGGER (“BUG BOMB”) EXPOSURE IN DOGS & CATS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Household pesticide foggers contain aerosolized pyrethroids, propellants, and solvents that can irritate the lungs, cause coughing, drooling, vomiting, tremors, or—in cats— serious neurological reactions.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
• Brief inhalation in a ventilated space
• Mild eye or throat irritation
MEDICAL CAUSES
• Staying in room during activation
• Walking on residues and grooming it off
• Poor ventilation after fogging
EMERGENCY CAUSES (HIGH CONCERN)
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting repeatedly
• Severe drooling
• High fever (cats)
RED FLAGS: WHEN THIS IS AN EMERGENCY
• Labored breathing
• Continuous tremors
• Exposure in enclosed space
If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Move pet to fresh air immediately
• Rinse fur with mild dish soap
• Ventilate the area
These steps do not replace a veterinary exam if symptoms continue or worsen.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Respiratory function
• Temperature
• IV fluids
• Muscle relaxants
• Anti-seizure therapy
• Oxygen if needed
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES (BASED ON 40 YEARS OF CASES)
• Pyrethroid toxicity
• Respiratory irritation
• Seizures in severe exposure