Flea and tick treatments for dogs and cats may be harming wildlife
Science Daily
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Flea and tick treatments for pets may be causing unintended harm to wildlife, according to a study published in *Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry*. The research highlights how active ingredients from isoxazoline-based medications—widely used by veterinarians to protect dogs and cats from fleas and ticks—are finding their way into the environment through pet waste. These chemicals can expose dung-feeding insects, such as flies, dung beetles, and butterflies, to toxic residues, potentially disrupting ecosystems that rely on these species for nutrient recycling and soil health.
The study monitored 20 dogs and 20 cats in France following isoxazoline treatments over three months. Researchers collected fecal samples and found that two out of the four active ingredients from these medications persisted in the animals' waste even after the treatment period had ended. This persistence raises concerns about the environmental impact, as dung-feeding insects may be exposed to high levels of these compounds when they interact with contaminated pet waste.
The findings suggest that routine use of flea and tick treatments could have ripple effects on ecosystems. Dung-feeding insects play a critical role in breaking down animal waste, improving soil quality, and controlling pest populations. If these insects are harmed by isoxazoline residues, it could disrupt essential ecological processes, leading to broader consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem health.
This research underscores the importance of evaluating the environmental impact of veterinary medications beyond their intended use. While these treatments provide significant benefits for pets, their long-term effects on non-target species highlight the need for further study and potential alternatives to minimize harm to wildlife. For readers interested in science and environmental conservation, this study offers valuable insights into how everyday practices can
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/22/2026