It can be particularly difficult to witness your pet in pain or experiencing itching. You may be unsure whether anti-itch products like calamine lotion are safe for your dog.
The use of calamine lotion on dogs is neither safe nor permitted. Your dog could possibly lick the Calamine cream and consume it. Ingestion of the zinc oxide and Caladryl-containing compound Calamine can result in gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea as well as other illnesses like anemia.
Make sure any product you intend to use is safe for dogs before you go into your personal medicine cabinet to treat your dog’s itching.
Are human anti-itch creams safe for dogs?
Dogs can use some human anti-itch creams, the most popular of which may be hydrocortisone cream. It’s also okay to use other dexamethasone and betamethasone-containing creams on your dog.
These frequently have higher concentrations, so I wouldn’t suggest using them without first speaking to your DVM.
Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory properties. Most commonly found in creams as 1% hydrocortisone acetate. It helps to calm inflamed and irritated skin.
The “itch-scratch cycle” brought on by allergies, infections, bug bites, and stings is broken by these creams. Although there are canine formulations of hydrocortisone cream available in other countries, it’s important to keep in mind that they have not been FDA-approved.
As long as you make sure your dog doesn’t lick the medication off, topical hydrocortisone in small doses is generally considered safe for canine companions.
Investigations into the effectiveness and safety of hydrocortisone in dogs have been conducted for a long time, and more investigations have been carried out in recent years.
One research team discovered that hydrocortisone aceponate effectively reduces pruritis (itchiness) symptoms, and it can even be combined with proactive treatments like oclacitinib (Apoquel) to help prevent itchy episodes.
Hydrocortisone acetate itself has not been extensively studied in canines. However, its efficacy and safety in humans have long been known.
When your dog’s skin is itchy, irritated, or inflamed, you want to do everything you can to relieve their discomfort. Your veterinarian may recommend a dog-friendly hydrocortisone cream to provide that relief. Despite the fact that it can be used on dogs, you still need to be aware of its risks. For assistance, speak to your veterinarian or call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
Your dog should be fine as long as you use hydrocortisone cream that is safe for dogs. It is typical for dogs to lick an inflamed area. Your dog may experience minor side effects if they repeatedly lick the cream-applied area. These side effects can include panting, increased hunger/thirst, and pacing. In some cases, these creams may contain harmful ingredients. Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline if you’re unsure whether your dog should have licked the cream due to potential risks. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, black tarry stools, and other symptoms of hydrocortisone toxicity may occur.
Having red, itchy, and itchy skin is the worst, but thankfully, hydrocortisone cream can help to alleviate that unpleasant sensation. It’s a good thing hydrocortisone cream is used for both human and veterinary medicine because what if your dog is feeling the same discomfort on their skin? Apply the hydrocortisone cream only after speaking with your veterinarian and receiving dog-friendly cream, and only as directed by your veterinarian.
Vet Approved Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs
Although technically you can use hydrocortisone products made for humans on dogs, there are currently no studies to determine the right and safe dosage for dogs.
However, Food and Drug Administration does have some recommendations for hydrocortisone spray uses.
The FDA approves Dog-friendly hydrocortisone products. They are safe to use, particularly when treating a simple skin condition like a small rash without the need for a veterinarian’s guidance.
Note: Only carry out this procedure if the inflamed skin is not accompanied by other symptoms.
If you want to try hydrocortisone for your dog’s skin issue, the following well-known brands and products are available over-the-counter for pet owners to take into consideration.
FAQ
What can I put on my dog for itchy skin?
Calendula, green tea, and chamomile all have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that make them excellent additions to a dog bath for itchy skin. For dogs with hot, itchy patches of skin that could be rubbed raw, these soaks work best.
What human lotion is safe for dogs?
Coconut oil is one of nature’s safest, most effective moisturizers. As a topical moisturizer, a little bit goes a long way when massaged into dry doggy skin, just like how humans have used it for generations to soothe dry skin and hair.
Can you use calamine lotion on a dog for itching?
Calamine lotion. If you have poison ivy or insect bites, you can use the liquid pink substance, but never on your pet. Most calamine products contain zinc oxide, which can give dogs and cats uncomfortable GI problems. Zinc oxide consumption can also impact red blood cells and result in anemia.