A parliamentary report has concluded that over-the-counter flea treatments for cats and dogs should be banned. The report, published on Wednesday by the House of Lords environment and climate change committee, states that millions of hazardous chemicals are unnecessarily applied to UK pets each year.
The treatments often contain insecticides such as imidacloprid and fipronil, which are banned for use in pesticides in the EU and UK due to their severe toxicity to fish, invertebrates, bees, and pollinators. Recent research suggests these chemicals are transferring to the natural environment, potentially causing widespread damage to ecosystems.
Researchers at Cardiff University found imidacloprid and fipronil in almost half of all samples across nine Welsh rivers. The Environment Agency stated in its evidence to the committee that even very small amounts of these chemicals can cause environmental harm. The committee also found "worryingly insufficient evidence" to assess whether these chemicals are harmful to human health.
The committee is calling on the government to reduce the routine use of these chemicals and ensure individualised advice for pet owners. They recommended banning sales of topical treatments in pet shops or online, while allowing preventative treatment to be prescribed by a vet. The Wildlife Trusts has called for a total ban of five widely used chemicals.
The British Veterinary Association welcomed the committee’s findings. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate, the independent regulator, acknowledged that pet parasite treatments are entering watercourses and could be contributing to wider environmental impacts.