What is pyrethrin/pyrethroid what are they used for?
Pyrethrin is a natural extract of the African chrysanthemum flower. There are six individual chemicals pyrethrin I and II, cinevin I and II, and jasmolin I and II, collectively known as pyrethrins. Pyrethrins break down quickly in the environment, especially when exposed to natural sunlight. They are approved for use on both dogs & cats & can be found in many shampoos, sprays, dusts, dips, spot-on flea & tick products & household insecticides. Pyrethroids are manufactured chemicals which are similar to pyrethrins but are more toxic to insects & mammals. They also last longer in the environment. While pyrethrins are safe to use in cats, in the correct dosage, pyrethroids are not safe due to the low tolerance cats have towards them. The active ingredient of pyrethroids is permethrin.
