Understanding the Controversy Around Seresto Collars
Seresto collars are a widely used flea and tick preventive for dogs and cats, with over
70 million units sold globally. Manufactured by Elanco Animal Health, the collars offer up to
eight months of protection using two active ingredients:
imidacloprid and
flumethrin. Despite their popularity and overall effectiveness, these collars have come under scrutiny due to incident reports and safety concerns.
Regulatory Review and Safety Concerns
In 2021, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched a review of Seresto collars after receiving a notable number of adverse incident reports. Between 2016 and 2020, the EPA logged approximately
1,400 pet deaths allegedly linked to Seresto collars. However, many reports lacked critical details, making causation difficult to establish.
According to the EPA:
- Most confirmed deaths were attributed to mechanical strangulation due to the collar's release mechanism failing.
- Other severe outcomes often coincided with pre-existing health issues.
- The overall incident rate was comparable to other pet products.
Non-lethal symptoms reported included:
- Skin irritation
- Hair loss around the collar area
- Neurological signs such as ataxia and convulsions
Most reactions improved after collar removal. Symptoms typically returned if the collar was reapplied.
No Official Lawsuit, But Manufacturer Oversight Intensifies
Despite public concern, there is
no known lawsuit currently filed against Elanco regarding Seresto collars. Instead, regulatory bodies have intensified oversight. The EPA has mandated the following actions from Elanco:
- Update labeling to include more detailed warnings and instructions on adverse events.
- Improve incident reporting by requiring more comprehensive data on individual cases.
- Enhance collar design to minimize risk of mechanical failure and strangulation.
- Continue reporting adverse events and sales annually.
- Five-year market approval tenure subject to further ongoing reviews.
Elanco’s Position and Pharmacovigilance
Elanco reports that:
- No deaths have been attributed to the active ingredients in Seresto.
- The rate of reported incidents is less than 0.2% in recent sales.
- Most adverse cases involve mild, local effects such as hair loss or redness.
- Veterinary experts agree the benefits generally outweigh the minimal risk.
Challenges With Counterfeit Products
Another contributing factor to adverse reports is the influx of
counterfeit Seresto collars. These are commonly found on unverified online platforms and are much more likely to cause harmful side effects.
Recommendations to avoid counterfeit issues:
- Purchase from veterinary offices or certified retailers.
- Inspect packaging for authentic labeling and safety seals.
Expert Recommendations for Pet Owners
Veterinarians continue to recommend flea and tick preventives, including Seresto, especially in regions with high incidence of vector-borne diseases. Here is what pet owners should do to ensure safety:
- Monitor pets closely during the first few days of use.
- Look out for symptoms such as irritation, hair loss, restlessness, or vomiting.
- Remove the collar at the first sign of an adverse reaction.
- Consult a veterinarian before use on pregnant or lactating pets or those with health sensitivities.
The Bottom Line
While the EPA’s review triggered concern and attention, there is currently
no organized legal action or lawsuit pending against the makers of Seresto. Regulators are focused on strengthening safety measures through better data collection, label improvements, and mechanical redesigns. Statistically, severe adverse events remain rare when compared to the total number of collars in use.
Pet owners are advised to remain cautious, stay informed through trusted veterinary channels, and always ensure the products they use are
genuine and properly applied. With appropriate oversight and responsible use, the Seresto collar continues to be a widely endorsed option for flea and tick prevention.
