The Dangers of Bifenthrin in Mosquito Control: What Every Pet Owner in NJ Should Know
Mosquitoes aren’t just irritating summer pests—they’re potential carriers of serious diseases that threaten both humans and pets. As responsible pet owners, we all want to protect our furry family members from itchy bites and possible infections. But what if the spray being used to “protect” your yard could actually put your pets in danger?
Unfortunately, many pest control companies still rely on a chemical called bifenthrin. While it’s marketed as safe and effective, this synthetic insecticide poses hidden risks to dogs, cats, and the environment. In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll explain exactly what bifenthrin is, why it’s dangerous, and how pet owners across New Jersey are switching to all-natural alternatives that truly keep families safe.
What Is Bifenthrin and Why Is It Used?
Bifenthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid—a man-made chemical designed to mimic compounds found in chrysanthemums. It’s commonly used in lawn sprays, termite treatments, and mosquito control services because it kills insects by attacking their nervous systems. The problem? It doesn’t stop there.
Many homeowners are told bifenthrin is “safe once dry,” but scientific research and veterinary reports show that it can remain toxic for weeks. The residue lingers on grass, patios, and decks where pets play and rest. Even after drying, it can still be absorbed through the paws or ingested when pets groom themselves.
Why Pet Owners Are Concerned
Imagine this: you book a mosquito control service that promises a “family-safe” spray. Your dog runs outside an hour later to play fetch. Later that evening, he starts drooling, shaking, and won’t eat dinner. You rush him to the vet, only to discover he’s been poisoned by a common lawn chemical—bifenthrin.
Unfortunately, that story isn’t rare. Many pet owners contact us after experiencing similar incidents with other companies. They were told the spray was “natural” or “derived from chrysanthemums,” only to learn later that it was entirely synthetic.
How Bifenthrin Affects Pets
- Toxicity: Bifenthrin is highly toxic to both cats and dogs. Cats are particularly sensitive to pyrethroids and may experience tremors, seizures, or vomiting even from minor exposure. Dogs may show symptoms like drooling, fatigue, twitching, or loss of coordination.
- Accidental Ingestion: Pets love to explore by sniffing and licking. If they lick treated grass or chew on a toy left outdoors, they can easily ingest harmful residues.
- Delayed Symptoms: Exposure isn’t always immediate. Some pets develop symptoms hours or days later, making it difficult for owners to link their illness to a recent spray treatment.
- Environmental Contamination: Bifenthrin remains in soil and water for long periods. It’s deadly to fish, bees, and beneficial insects, disrupting the ecosystem your yard depends on.
“After our old mosquito company sprayed, my golden retriever started scratching nonstop and wouldn’t stop drooling,” says Lisa from Freehold. “They told me the treatment was safe once dry—but my vet confirmed it was a chemical exposure. I switched to Bite Back’s all-natural spray and haven’t had a single issue since.”
“Safe Once Dry” — Why That Claim Is Misleading
Many large mosquito control franchises use bifenthrin and reassure customers that it’s “safe once dry.” But drying does not neutralize toxicity—it only reduces surface residue visibility. Studies show that bifenthrin can remain active on surfaces for up to 30 days, meaning pets can still come into contact with it long after spraying.
In humid New Jersey summers, when lawns stay damp and pets roll around outside, that exposure risk increases dramatically. The chemical can easily cling to fur and paws, creating ongoing contamination even inside your home.
Natural, Pet-Safe Alternatives That Work
The good news is that you don’t need harsh chemicals to keep mosquitoes out of your yard. At Bite Back Tick & Mosquito Control, we use EPA 25(b) exempt all-natural sprays made from essential oils like cedarwood, peppermint, rosemary, and geraniol. These ingredients naturally repel mosquitoes and ticks without harming your pets, pollinators, or plants.
- Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Empty birdbaths, gutters, and outdoor toys weekly.
- Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Add lavender, rosemary, citronella, and marigolds to your garden—they naturally deter mosquitoes.
- Apply Natural Repellents: Pet-safe sprays with essential oils like cedarwood or lemon eucalyptus protect dogs and cats without toxins.
- Dress for Defense: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts or pet-safe jackets can reduce bites during dusk walks.
- Use Mosquito Netting: Screened patios and netting create mosquito-free zones for relaxing outdoors with your pets.
- Choose the Right Company: Always ask your mosquito control provider if their products are EPA-exempt and free from synthetic pyrethroids.
Real Pet Owner Reactions to Natural Mosquito Control
“I didn’t realize how strong those chemical sprays were until I stopped using them. Now, with Bite Back’s all-natural treatments, my yard smells amazing, and my dog doesn’t have allergic reactions anymore.” – Karen, Marlboro NJ
“Our old mosquito company said they were ‘eco-friendly,’ but it turns out they used bifenthrin. After switching to Bite Back, we noticed fewer bugs and no chemical smell. It feels good to know my cats are safe again.” – David, Howell NJ
“We have kids and two dogs, so chemicals were never an option. The Bite Back team explained everything clearly, used essential oils, and even placed signs to let neighbors know the treatment was safe. I recommend them to everyone.” – Nicole, Manalapan NJ
Protecting Your Pets and the Planet
Pet safety isn’t just about avoiding a single exposure—it’s about preventing a buildup of toxins in your yard, soil, and water. Bifenthrin doesn’t just disappear after a spray. It can persist, accumulating over time and threatening local wildlife, pollinators, and waterways.
Choosing a natural mosquito control service like Bite Back means you’re making an eco-conscious decision that protects your entire community—not just your pets.
Bite Back Tick & Mosquito Control: 100% All-Natural and Local
At Bite Back Tick & Mosquito Control, we’re proud to be a local, mom-owned New Jersey company offering safe, effective, and all-natural pest control solutions. We never use bifenthrin or any other synthetic pesticide. Our treatments are derived from essential oils that are tough on pests but gentle on pets and the planet.
We’re not a franchise or corporate call center—you’ll talk to real local people who care about your yard, your pets, and your peace of mind.
Schedule Your Pet-Safe Mosquito Treatment Today
Protect your pets, your family, and your yard—naturally. Call 732-333-3379 or visit BiteBackTick.com to schedule your all-natural mosquito control service in New Jersey today. You’ll see why so many families are saying goodbye to toxic chemicals and hello to safe, effective mosquito control with Bite Back.
Your pets deserve better. Choose all-natural. Choose Bite Back.
Bite Back press coverage in the Manalapan Patch
