Phenothrin

Active

Cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)-, (3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl ester

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS) listed active ingredient for pesticide products.

Safety around dogs & cats

Cats are the textbook cautionary case for this active. Phenothrin flea products marketed for cats were linked to salivation, tremors, and deaths in cats and kittens, and EPA cancelled Hartz's phenothrin cat products in 2006 while the dog versions stayed on the market. The cause is feline glucuronidation deficiency (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, VCA). Keep cats away from any phenothrin device or treated surface, keep pet birds out of enclosed treated spaces, and never apply it to a cat.

CatsAvoid

DogsLow concern

High confidence. Ratings from ASPCA Animal Poison Control, the Pet Poison Helpline, and published veterinary toxicology. This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is exposed, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Full guide: bug repellents around dogs and cats →

Products using it

Black Flag

Black Flag Propane Insect Fogger

Phenothrin 0.15%

Coverage & effectiveness

Treated area~5000 sq ft

Fewer bitesest.40–70%

Cutter

Cutter Propane Insect Fogger

Phenothrin 0.15%

Coverage & effectiveness

Treated area~5000 sq ft

Fewer bitesest.40–70%

Cutter

Cutter Backyard Bug Control Outdoor Fogger

Tetramethrin 0.20% · Phenothrin 0.20%

Coverage & effectiveness

Treated area~150 sq ft

Fewer bitesest.40–70%

Burgess

Burgess 1443 Propane Insect Fogger

Phenothrin

Coverage & effectiveness

Treated area~5000 sq ft

Fewer bitesest.40–70%

Regulatory notes

Source: EPA SRS active ingredient list export. Minimum risk (25(b)) status is applied separately when applicable.