Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to tackle the contamination of rivers with insecticides applied as flea and tick treatments to dogs and cats.

The Government recognises concerns about the environmental impacts of spot‑on parasiticide treatments for companion animals. Research funded by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has improved understanding of how key active substances enter the environment, but further evidence is needed to address gaps relating to contamination pathways, behavioural influences and effective monitoring. To strengthen the evidence base, the VMD has launched a national survey to gather information on pet owners’ behaviours, while exposure modelling is also being explored to inform potential future regulatory decisions. In addition, the VMD will undertake a regulatory review of the AVM‑GSL (‘general sales list’) status of companion animal parasiticide products containing fipronil and imidacloprid, with details expected in early 2026. These actions aim to protect animal health while reducing environmental harm.

On 14 August 2025, the cross‑government Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group held its first stakeholder workshop, focusing on educational guidance for pet owners. This guidance is being refined for launch in spring 2026, alongside further measures to promote responsible use.