Abstract

Concerns have been raised about the risk of contamination of waterways by parasiticides commonly used in companion animals. As these products are harmful to a wide range of invertebrates, the impact that these can have on wildlife and ecosystems cannot be dismissed. iCatCare/ISFM supports the policy position and recommendations agreed by three veterinary organisations in the UK (British Veterinary Association, British Small Animal Veterinary Association and British Veterinary Zoological Society) on the responsible use of parasiticides: www.bva.co.uk/media/4352/bva-bsava-and-bvzs-policy-position-on-responsible-use-of-parasiticides-for-cats-and-dogs.pdf.
While cats are likely to be lower contributors to environmental contamination by parasiticides because they are less likely to be bathed or to swim in waterways, efforts should still be made to reduce the impact they do have.
