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We all have opinions about our kids licking us. Some are wives’ tales, science or Dr. Oz. This article is to help you be aware that products we use every day are not always safe.
Cats and dogs engage in licking which seems harmless but it is cause for concern depending on what you have put on your skin. The following is not all inclusive and you should always check with your vet for specific product information, concerns and questions. Additional sites are at the end of the article. Licking could cause death!
Over-the-Counter Topical Products:
Personal care products: soaps, toothpastes, lotions, sunscreens, self-tanners, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, make-up, etc. can cause GI upset. For a comprehensive infographic on typical chemicals used in these products, see Dr. Mercola’s article, “Hidden Dangers in Personal Care Products.”
Creams containing hydrocortisone can cause increased thirst, urination, panting, vomiting and diarrhea.
Ointments, lotions and creams containing antibiotics like triple-antibiotic products can cause stomach upset.
Antifungal creams for athlete’s foot, vaginal yeast infections, “jock itch,” and nail fungus can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Products containing zinc oxide and calamine lotion can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Bloody vomit or diarrhea indicates the zinc oxide has damaged your pet’s GI tract, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Muscle rub creams contain salicylates as well as menthol, or capsaicin and are aspirin-like compounds that can cause vomiting with or without blood, as well as stomach ulcers.
Minoxidil a/k/a/ Rogaine, originally a blood pressure medication, can initially show symptoms of vomiting and lethargy, progressing to a build-up of fluid in the lungs, and ultimately, heart failure.
Prescription Topical Products:
Prescription steroid-based creams: betamethasone, clobetasone, clobetasol, hydrocortisone, methylprednisone, mometasone, and triamcinolone can cause the same symptoms in your pet as OTC preparations (increased thirst, urination, panting, vomiting, and diarrhea), but for a longer period of time.
Hormone creams such as estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone can be absorbed through your pet’s skin in addition to being ingested. These compounds are endocrine disruptors that can cause changes such as mammary gland enlargement, and in sterilized females, signs of estrus and false pregnancy.
Anti-inflammatory pain medication creams like Flurbiprofen for topical relief of arthritis – just a tiny ingested amount of Flurbiprofen can cause kidney failure in cats.
Vitamin A compounds or retinoids can cause stomach upset and in pregnant animals, birth defects in developing fetuses.
Calcipotriene, Dovonex contains vitamin D for psoriasis – just a small amount of this ointment can be FATAL to both dogs and cats; it causes vomiting and kidney failure.
5-fluorouracil or 5-FU and Efudex can cause uncontrollable seizures, bloody vomiting, and diarrhea, and bone marrow suppression. This is an INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS product as the majority who ingest it cannot be saved.
Additional information:
Thank you Linda Caton for your love of animals and support! Our Rene and volunteer Nancy have a day in the park! Watch our calendar! www.RoversRestStop.com; 480-600-2828.