How to Spot Fake Pet Medicine and Keep Your Animals Safe

Alan’s Persian tabby cat, Smokey, almost died after being given a counterfeit flea treatment bought online. Although Alan had used the same brand, Frontline Plus, for years, this time the medication was fake, leading to Smokey becoming violently ill. After rushing Smokey to the vet, scans revealed an intestinal blockage, and emergency surgery was needed to save his life at a cost of £3,000. It was later confirmed the product was counterfeit, containing a toxic chemical harmful to cats. The government has issued a warning after reports of counterfeit veterinary medicines being sold online, especially as more pet owners are turning to the internet due to rising vet bills. Experts recommend only purchasing pet medications from trusted sellers, such as registered veterinary online retailers. Signs that a product might be fake include poor packaging, grammatical errors, suspicious smells or colors, and unusually low prices. If you suspect a product is fake, you should stop using it and consult a vet immediately.