Minor cuts and scrapes on your dog could result from a variety of situations, including sifting through thick brush, stepping on a sharp stone, or getting smacked by the household cat. Humans typically use Neosporin to prevent infection from minor scrapes. Nearly every home contains the brand-name antibiotic ointment Neosporin, which is completely safe for use on people. But is Neosporin safe for dogs?.
You might consider using that Neosporin tube to apply a little to the area of your dog’s minor wound on its body or face. However, it’s important to think about a few things first. Remember: Neosporin is a product made for humans, not dogs.
Continue reading to learn more about Neosporin and its components, including whether it is safe to use on your dog.
Clubs Offering:
Dogs can sustain minor wounds and are not immune to getting burns, scrapes, or cuts, just like their owners. But it’s not entirely clear whether Neosporin® can be used on dogs. Although applying the topical antibiotic ointment can occasionally aid in the healing of your dog’s wound, there are times when doing so is neither advisable nor necessary.
Since most people reach for some sort of ointment as soon as a problem arises, it’s not uncommon for you to do the same for your dog. However, there are a few things to consider before you proceed and apply Neosporin.
Can You Use Neosporin on Your Dog?
Like humans, dogs can also use neosporin topically to treat minor cuts and scrapes. However, it is best to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any over-the-counter drugs meant for humans. A thin layer applied to the affected area may aid in the prevention of infection and promote quicker wound healing. It can’t be used anywhere else on the dog’s body where he can lick it off. Dogs shouldn’t eat neosporin because it can have unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects if they do. Since you can’t completely stop your dog from licking it off, you might want to think about a substitute for dog Neosporin. Never use Neosporin in the ears, eyes, or mouth.
In an emergency, neosporin may be useful to have on hand. However, it shouldn’t be used frequently and is not intended for pets. More appropriate products exist specifically for pets. It shouldn’t be applied to large areas of the body or used to treat large or deep wounds. In contrast to being treated at home, your dog should be seen by a veterinarian if the cut or scrape is swollen, red, painful, or has discharge. Additionally, if your pet’s cut does not heal after using Neosporin for a few days, you should consult a veterinarian.
Three antibiotics—neomycin sulfate, polymixin B sulfate, and bacitracin zinc—are present in the ointment, which is typically made of a petroleum base. These antibiotics make the ointment effective against many common bacteria. However, they won’t deal with other infectious diseases like parasites, fungi, or viruses. Neosporin is an over-the-counter medication, so the FDA does not examine or control it.
What to Do When Your Dog Has a Small Scrape
Follow these easy first-aid instructions if you see a small cut or scrape on your dog’s body:
Keep in mind that the procedures listed above are only for very minor wounds like scrapes or cuts. And if you’re thinking about giving your dog Neosporin or any other over-the-counter topical antibiotic, it’s always a good idea to be safe and give your veterinarian a call. So you can determine whether it is safe or something you should reconsider.
Small cuts and scrapes are typically treatable at home with a quick call to the veterinarian to ensure your first aid techniques are effective. But what should you do if your dog sustains a more serious injury?
FAQ
What antibiotic ointment can I use on my dog?
A cream that contains either neomycin or bacitracin is a fantastic option for an antibiotic cream for dogs. These ingredients can be easily found over-the-counter in numerous stores and are typically safe for dogs.
What happens if a dog licks Neosporin?
“The main worry with Neosporin is the potential impact on the GI flora (normal gut bacteria), resulting in GI upset like vomiting and diarrhea,” says Dr. Grimmett. The lubricant base is a different factor that could contribute to GI distress and cause diarrhea, etc. ”.
What ointment is good for dog wounds?
Apply an antibacterial ointment to the wound. There are numerous options for triple antibiotic ointments that contain bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. AVOID any product that contains a corticosteroid like hydrocortisone.
What can I use instead of Neosporin on my dog?
Alternatives to Neosporin for Dogs Other over-the-counter topical antibacterial medications include silver sulfadiazine (SSD) ointment, bacitracin ointment, and polysporin ointment.