Introduction
Cat owners may consider using human ointments on their feline companions because certain skin conditions like dry skin, rashes, infections, and irritation can affect both humans and cats. Human ointments and creams are also more readily available in most homes. However, it’s important to note that human ointments and medications can be extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. This is because cats have very different metabolisms from humans and cannot process many of the ingredients commonly found in human ointments. According to the FDA, just a tiny bit of pain relief cream meant for humans could be fatal to a cat.(1) Therefore, pet owners need to be very cautious about using any human medicine or ointment on their felines.
Differences Between Human and Feline Skin
There are several key differences between human and cat skin that are important to understand when considering using human ointments on cats:
Human skin is much thinner than cat skin. Human epidermis is usually only 0.05-0.1mm thick, whereas cat skin is 0.5-0.8mm thick, nearly 10 times thicker (Source 1). This means substances applied to cat skin may not permeate or absorb as readily.
Cats also have a more alkaline skin pH than humans, around 7.5-8 compared to human skin pH of around 5.5 (Source 2). This can impact effectiveness and absorption of topical products.
Additionally, cats are fastidious groomers and use their barbed tongues to frequently lick their coats, which can quickly remove any ointments applied to their skin (Source 3). Ointments may not stay on the skin surface long enough to provide benefit.
Ointments to Avoid
When using human ointments on cats, it’s important to avoid certain ingredients that can be toxic to felines. According to NPR, petroleum-based ointments like Vaseline should be avoided on cats. The petroleum jelly can stick to a cat’s fur and get ingested when they groom themselves, leading to an inflammatory condition called lipoid pneumonia.
Ointments containing corticosteroids like hydrocortisone should also be avoided, as cats’ skin absorbs medications much more readily than human skin. This can lead to corticosteroid toxicity.
Finally, ointments containing NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen are highly toxic to cats according to Litter-Robot. Even small amounts of these pain medications can cause kidney failure in felines. It’s best to avoid using any human NSAID ointments on cats.
Safe Options
There are a few ointments that can be safely used on cats when applied properly:
Triple antibiotic ointment like Polysporin can be effective for minor cuts, scrapes or abrasions, as long as it does not contain pain relief medication. The antibiotics help fight bacterial infections while the ointment creates a protective barrier. According to cats.com, triple antibiotic ointments are usually well-tolerated in small amounts, but should be kept away from eyes, nose and mouth.
Certain antifungal ointments may also be used for treating ringworm or other fungal infections on a cat’s skin, as long as they do not contain steroids. An example is miconazole cream. Always monitor for licking and reactions.
Sterile saline solution is gentle and safe for rinsing wounds or moistening crusted scabs. It helps flush out debris and bacteria from lesions.
Pure aloe vera gel can provide soothing relief for minor burns, rashes or skin irritations. Ensure the product is formulated for pets.
When applying any ointment to cats, use the smallest amount needed and monitor for reactions like excessive licking. Avoid ingestion. It’s ideal to get guidance from a veterinarian first.
Using Ointments Safely
When considering using a human ointment on a cat, it’s imperative to consult a veterinarian first. A vet can evaluate if an ointment is safe for a cat and prescribe the proper dosage and application instructions. Some human ointments contain ingredients that are toxic to cats, even in small amounts.
If a vet approves an ointment, apply it very sparingly on the cat and monitor for any adverse reactions like itchiness, swelling, gastrointestinal upset, etc. Only use the ointment as directed and stop immediately if the cat has any concerning symptoms. Prevent the cat from licking the ointment, as ingestion can be dangerous. Consider using an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking.
With cautious veterinary guidance, very limited use, and close monitoring, some human ointments may be safely used on cats. However, they should always be considered a last resort option after consulting a vet. It’s ideal to use ointments formulated specifically for feline use.
Signs of Toxicity
If your cat has ingested or absorbed a toxic substance, you may observe the following signs:
Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea – According to Common cat poisons | Cat health and welfare, some of the first signs of toxicity in cats include vomiting, depression, diarrhea, and lack of appetite.
Excessive drooling or pawing at mouth – Cats may drool excessively or repeatedly paw at their mouth if they have ingested something irritating or toxic. This is a sign that something is causing distress in their mouth.
Skin irritation at application site – Topical products not meant for feline use can cause skin irritation where applied. Redness, itching, swelling, and pain may occur if the skin is exposed to ingredients unsafe for cats.
When to Call the Vet
It is important to monitor your cat closely after applying any human ointment, including the areas around their mouth, skin, and paws (if ointment was applied to the paws). If any signs of toxicity appear such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, lethargy or agitation, call your veterinarian immediately (PetMd – Animax Ointment). Also monitor the condition you applied the ointment for. If it worsens or does not improve within a few days, discontinue use and call your vet for further guidance (Pet ointment care – Quora). Your vet can evaluate your cat and determine if prescription medication is needed instead.
Alternatives to Ointments
There are several pet-safe alternatives to human ointments that can be used on cats. Some options include:
Pet-safe topical creams: There are some over-the-counter topical creams made specifically for pets that can be used instead of human ointments. These contain ingredients that are safe for feline skin. Some examples are Vetericyn spray and gel, which contain hypochlorous acid, and Rescue ointment, which contains bee propolis and other natural ingredients.
Herbal remedies: Some cat owners have success using herbal remedies like calendula, plantain, and aloe vera on minor wounds and skin irritations. These should be diluted and used sparingly. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian before using herbal remedies.
Dietary supplements: Supplements like fish oil and turmeric may help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief from skin conditions when used as part of a veterinarian-approved treatment plan. Always check with a vet before giving supplements.
As with any treatment, it’s important to monitor your cat closely for signs of irritation or allergic reaction when using alternatives to human ointments. Stop use and contact your veterinarian if any concerning symptoms develop.[1]
Preventing the Need for Ointments
The best way to avoid having to use ointments for skin conditions is to take preventative measures to keep your cat’s skin and coat healthy. This involves the following:
Regular grooming and skin/coat care – Grooming your cat regularly helps remove dirt, debris, loose hair, and dry skin that can lead to irritation. Use a soft brush and comb to go over their coat, especially focusing on areas that are prone to matting. Regular bathing with a gentle, cat-safe shampoo can also help keep their skin and coat clean.
Reducing stressors – Stress can manifest physically in cats, leading to skin issues like hair loss or excessive grooming. Try to minimize stressful situations by keeping their environment calm and consistent. Using calming pheromone diffusers or CBD oil may also help anxious cats.
Source: https://blog.petgenius.ai/2023/12/feline-symptom-checker-understanding.html
Providing a healthy diet – A nutritious, balanced diet supports skin and coat health from the inside out. Look for high-quality cat food with omega fatty acids and antioxidants. Avoid fillers, by-products, and artificial ingredients that can cause sensitivities.
Conclusion
In summary, human ointments can be highly toxic to cats and should never be used without first consulting a veterinarian. Cats’ sensitive skin and tendency to lick topical products makes them susceptible to dangerous side effects from ingredients commonly found in human ointments. While options like petroleum jelly or vitamin E oil can be safe when used properly under a vet’s guidance, it’s best to avoid any human medicine for our feline friends. Always monitor your cat closely and call your vet at the first sign of irritation or sickness after applying any product. With some caution and your vet’s advice, you can usually find an alternative treatment that’s safe and effective for your cat’s skin conditions. But remember – when in doubt, keep human ointments out! Your cat’s health is too precious to risk.