Medical Alert:
Problems Reported with New Topical Flea Products

In Researching this problem on the Internet I did come across this information.

There seem to be some problems with some of the new topical flea products. Frontline, marketed through veterinarians by Rhone Merieux Inc. is mentioned by name. One Veterinary clinic site (that deals in small exotics - such as rabbits) has this information. "To date, we have consulted with veterinarians who have prescribed Frontline resulting in the death of three rabbits; another rabbit has been successfully treated for severe seizures it developed after Frontline was applied."

The active ingredient in Frontline is not supposed to cross into the central nervous system of mammals, and has proven to be safe for dogs and cats. It kills both fleas and ticks, and is difficult to wash off.

However, it is important to note that use of this product on rabbits is an "off label use" and has never been recommended or approved by the manufacturer. (This is the case with most pharmaceuticals used in rabbits.)

Representatives of Rhone Merieux Inc. admit they have received other reports of "adverse reactions" to Frontline when used on rabbits, but would not go so far as to say that they knew if other rabbits had died.

The manufacturer strongly recommends Frontline NOT be used on rabbits or other exotic species.