Overview/Risk
Organophosphates are organic phosphate compounds commonly found in insecticides used in lawn and garden or flea and tick treatments, such as flea collars. Organophosphate poisoning or toxicity occurs when an animal or person is overexposed to insecticides containing organophosphates. Most often, overexposure is the result of misuse of a product or exposure to multiple insecticides at once. Even though organophosphates are organic in nature, they are still dangerous and should be used according to the directions provided on their labels.

Organophosphates can be absorbed through the skin, lungs, or the gastrointestinal tract. They affect the interaction of the body’s nerves and muscles.

Symptoms
Your cat’s symptoms will depend on the amount of insecticide he has been exposed to.

Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Difficulty breathing
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abnormal urination
• Shaking
• Muscle weakness
• Constricted pupils

In extreme situations, organophosphate poisoning can lead to seizures or even death—so if you think your pet has been overexposed to an insecticide, contact your veterinarian immediately!

Diagnosis/Treatment
In order to determine if your cat has organophosphate poisoning, your veterinarian will give her a complete physical examination and take her history. It is crucial that you provide information about any insecticides you think your cat has been exposed to, including those used on your lawn, in your garden, and on your pet(s).
Your veterinarian may recommend some blood tests to evaluate the internal health of your cat.

They may include:

• Chemistry tests to evaluate kidney, liver and pancreatic function as well as sugar levels
• A complete blood count to rule out blood-related conditions
• Electrolyte tests to ensure your cat is neither dehydrated nor suffering from an electrolyte imbalance

If treatment is necessary, your veterinarian will want to start it immediately, to counter the effects of the poisoning.

Treatment may include the following:

• Bathing your cat to remove any remaining chemical residue
• Inducing vomiting to flush out the stomach, if poison was ingested
• Administering activated charcoal, which keeps the body from absorbing the poison while it passes through the digestive system
• Administering drugs such as atropine to counteract the effect that organophosphates have on the nervous system 
• Administering intravenous (IV) fluids, if your cat is dehydrated
• Providing oxygen, if your cat is having trouble breathing
• Additional treatment and support, as needed, based on symptoms

After your cat is released from the clinic, it is critical you follow all treatment recommendations and monitor your friend closely for any recurring symptoms. Your veterinarian also can recommend when you should resume using insecticides.

Prevention
The most important thing to know about organophosphate poisoning is that it can be prevented. Research all insecticides before you use them in your home, on your lawn, in your garden, and on your pets. Follow all labels carefully and never use products off label.

Finally, if you suspect your cat has been exposed to a chemical and you are unsure of the possible side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.