Cats are more susceptible than dogs, and younger and older animals are at increased risk. The effect the poison has on the pet depends on the animal's weight and the amount of poison ingested. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, excessive salivation, drooling, vomiting, runny eyes, diarrhea, seizures and in severe situations, coma. In many cases there is no dominant signal of poisoning because these symptoms can indicate any one of a variety of ailments. Pet owners need to be aware of any strange behavior or health problem in their pets after the yard has been treated and consult a veterinarian if any of these symptoms develop.
Organophosphates are most potent when they are first applied and lose some toxicity as they dry.
Pet owners who are unfamiliar with the drying time should keep pets away from the treated area for at least one day. Some chemicals dry within hours, and then it's safe to release the pet into the treated area. Read the product label or ask the pesticide applicator when it will be safe to allow animals into the area. Pets can be poisoned by chemicals in containers that are left within their reach. Proper storage and disposal practices are critical in protecting your pets.