Can Neosporin be used on cats?
If you keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet in your home, it probably contains a tube of Neosporin®.You may find yourself tempted to use Neosporin on your cat's wound or abscess if you use it frequently.This is a poor option for cat wounds due to the unique risks associated with using Neosporin.
Neosporin is used to treat superficial wounds.Neosporin is often referred to as triple antibiotic ointment because it contains three separate antibiotics.pramoxine hydrogen chloride is a drug used for pain relief.
Minor cuts, abrasions, puncture wounds, and other wounds can be treated with neosporin.The antibiotics in Neosporin can be used to treat mild infections.Humans have a low risk of side effects from antibiotics.
Neosporin has some risks for cats.Cats may eat Neosporin applied to their skin and coat.
Cats don't like Neosporin as well as their human owners.Some cats may have serious side effects if they are treated with Neosporin.
Neosporin is safe if it remains on your cat's skin.Some cats may have a mild allergic reaction to the ingredients, but these reactions are relatively uncommon.Neomycin and polymyxin B are more likely to be associated with allergies.
Cats love to groom themselves when they find something on their skin or coat.A severe allergic reaction can be caused by the same antibiotics that cause a mild skin reaction.
A small percentage of cats can experience a significant allergic reaction if they ingest Neosporin.This reaction can be fatal in some cats.
Most veterinarians recommend against the use of Neosporin in cats because of the risk of life threatening reactions.
A cat with a reaction to Neosporin will show signs of skin irritation in the area where it was applied.excessive licking at the affected area may cause the skin to become red, swollen, and itchy.
If you see any of these signs, you should wash off any Neosporin that was applied to your cat.You should not use Neosporin on your cat in the future.If signs of an allergic reaction do not resolve with removal of the medication, you may need to see a doctor.
If your cat has eaten Neosporin, you should keep an eye on it.A brief episode of vomiting can occur.If your cat continues to vomit or refuse to eat, contact your vet.
If you notice any other signs of a severe reaction, such as weakness, you should contact your vet.
Mild soap and water can be used to clean minor scratches and wounds.
Cats are so fastidious in their grooming that antibiotics can present a challenge.It is likely to be licked off before you get much benefit from it.
If a cat is trying to lick Neosporin off his skin or coat, it may do more damage to the wound than if it had simply been treated.
The best way to clean a skin wound is to use soap and water.
If the wound becomes infectious despite this basic first aid, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.If you have a wound that requires antibiotics, your doctor can prescribe them in the form of oral antibiotics.
Although Neosporin is very safe for use in humans, it can present significant health risks in cats.Life-threatening problems can occur if cat owners use this medication in their cats without incident.The benefits of Neosporin do not outweigh the risks because cats tend to lick it off soon after it is applied.
Cats can have life-threatening allergic reactions to antibiotics, which are often included in antibiotic ointments.It is best to avoid antibiotics in cats and seek veterinary care for infections.
To clean a new skin wound, use a mild soap and water.Cats will lick at the wound and cause further problems with healing if they are put on a wound.If you notice signs of infections, seek veterinary care.
It is not recommended for use in cats.Some cats may experience a life-threatening allergic reaction if they are exposed to Neosporin.
Dr. Barnette is based in Florida.She has 14 years of experience in small animal clinical practice and has witnessed the communication gaps between pet owners and members of the veterinary team.Her goal is to educate owners so they can make the best decisions for their pets.Dr. Barnette also has a dog and a dove.