Are Seresto Collars Being Recalled? What Pet Owners Need to Know
Seresto collars are a popular and widely used solution for controlling fleas and ticks on dogs and cats. However, recent media attention and regulatory reviews have raised concerns among pet owners. Many wonder: are Seresto collars being recalled? The short answer is no. But here’s what you need to know about the product’s safety, regulatory status, and how to use it responsibly.
Understanding Seresto Collars
Seresto collars are manufactured by Elanco Animal Health and contain two active ingredients:
- Imidacloprid: a neonicotinoid insecticide that targets fleas.
- Flumethrin: a synthetic pyrethroid that repels and kills ticks.
These ingredients are embedded in a polymer matrix that slowly releases them over time, providing up to
8 months of protection.
Global Use and Safety Evaluations
Over
70 million Seresto collars have been sold worldwide. Regulatory agencies in more than
80 countries have evaluated and approved their use. Despite concerns raised in consumer reports and media publications, most global evaluations have supported the safety of the product for its intended use.
The EPA Review and Ongoing Monitoring
In the United States, the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began a deeper review of Seresto collars in 2021 after incidents were reported. Notably:
- From 2016–2020, 1,400 pet deaths were reported in association with the collars, though many lacked detailed information.
- Most cases found to be “probably or definitely” associated involved mechanical injuries, not toxicity—typically strangulation or trauma from the collar failing to release properly.
- Non-lethal issues such as skin irritation, hair loss, and rare neurological symptoms like convulsions were also reported but often resolved once the collar was removed.
EPA Actions and Manufacturer Response
Instead of issuing a recall, the EPA opted for tighter regulations and monitoring. The agency required Elanco to:
- Add clearer warnings and usage instructions on the product label.
- Collect better incident data, especially concerning pets’ health history.
- Evaluate the release mechanism to prevent choking or mechanical injuries.
- Submit annual reports on incidents and product use for five years.
Incident Rates and Consumer Guidance
Elanco reports that the rate of significant adverse events is
less than 0.2% of all collars sold. Most are minor reactions such as localized redness or discomfort. Veterinary experts and toxicologists often find that the
benefits of flea and tick prevention outweigh the small risk of mild or rare severe side effects.
Counterfeit Collar Concerns
One significant issue has been counterfeit Seresto collars. These knockoff products:
- Are more likely to cause harmful reactions.
- May not meet safety or efficacy standards.
To reduce risk, pet owners should:
- Purchase Seresto collars only from trusted retailers or veterinary offices.
- Check packaging and serial numbers to verify authenticity.
Best Practices When Using Seresto Collars
Pet owners should follow these guidelines:
- Monitor for side effects in the first few days after application.
- Remove the collar if any adverse symptoms appear.
- Consult a veterinarian for pets with known sensitivities or health issues.
- Avoid frequent bathing, as it can diminish the collar’s effectiveness.
The collar is water-resistant but may lose efficacy with more than monthly baths.
Special Considerations for Certain Pets
For pregnant or lactating animals, the manufacturer advises speaking with a veterinarian due to limited safety data. Although the ingredients act locally on the animal’s skin and not systemically, individual risk assessments are recommended.
Final Thoughts
Seresto collars are not currently being recalled, and they continue to be approved by the EPA and other global authorities. While no product is without risk, the vast majority of pets tolerate Seresto collars well. With proper usage and sourcing, Seresto remains a viable and widely recommended option for year-round flea and tick prevention.
If concerns persist, pet owners should speak to their veterinarian about the collar's compatibility with their pet’s health profile and explore alternative preventive treatments as needed.
