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Just like their owners, dogs are susceptible to minor injuries and aren’t immune to getting cuts, scrapes, or burns. But can you use Neosporin® on dogs? The answer isn’t completely straightforward. In some instances, applying the topical, antibiotic ointment can help heal your dog’s wound. However, there are situations when it’s not advisable or necessary to use it on your dog.
Since most people immediately reach for some type of ointment when an incident occurs, it’s not unusual that your first instinct might be to do the same for your dog. But before you go ahead and start applying Neosporin, there are a few things to take into consideration.
What to Know Before Using Neosporin on Your Dog
With abrasions (scrapes and scratches), first clean and flush the wound with soap and water. Then, rinse the area thoroughly and pat dry. Your veterinarian should see all puncture or penetrating wounds, including dog bites, as soon as possible.
Neosporin contains three different antibiotics: bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. Together, they work to kill bacteria on the skin and prevent topical infection. Dr. Rachel Barrack, a licensed veterinarian, certified in both veterinary acupuncture and Chinese herbology with Animal Acupuncture in New York City, points out that Neosporin has been formulated for people and isn’t necessarily safe for use on dogs.
“Bacitracin has been deemed safe for use on animals, as has polymyxin B. However, neomycin has been linked to loss of hearing,” she says. “This was primarily shown with intravenous use, but it is recommended that you do not administer neomycin topically to your dog without first consulting your vet.”
Because Neosporin is topical ointment that you apply directly onto the skin, there’s always a chance that your dog could have an allergic reaction. It’s a good idea to administer a small patch test first. The best way to do this is by picking a small area of skin and applying a tiny dab of Neosporin. Then, monitor the area to see if your dog develops a mild rash, redness, or hives.
“Typically, small amounts of Neosporin are not harmful,” says Dr. Danel Grimmett, a veterinarian with Sunset Veterinary Clinic in Oklahoma. By performing a patch test in advance, you’ll know for certain whether your dog can tolerate this antibacterial cream before they really need it.
The advantage of using Neosporin is that it kills off any live, existing bacteria, and stops them from growing. When applied to the skin, it helps to create a physical barrier against bacteria to prevent them from entering the wound. It also offers protection against infection. But there are some instances in which applying it to your dog might do more harm than good.
Precautions When Using Neosporin on Dogs
If your dog’s wound is in a spot they can easily reach, they might try licking the Neosporin off, which not only defeats the purpose but also might make them sick.
“The main concern regarding ingestion of Neosporin is the potential impact to the GI flora (normal gut bacteria), resulting in GI upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea,” explains Dr. Grimmett. “A second potential cause of GI upset would be the lubricant base, which could also give them diarrhea, etc.”
You can try covering the area with a sterile dressing, but Dr. Grimmett points out that not all dogs tolerate bandaging. The same desire to lick something off their skin will most likely prompt them to chew, as well. “A bandage can act as a tourniquet, reducing adequate blood flow to extremities, if not managed well,” he says. “Great care must be taken to prevent any constriction.”
Other instances when Neosporin wouldn’t be beneficial to your dog are if they’re bleeding heavily or have a wound that appears to be deep or severe. In these circumstances, it’s important to contact your veterinarian or nearest animal hospital immediately for assistance.
Using Neosporin to treat a minor injury to your dog may be fine at times. However, there are alternative products designed specifically for dogs. These products are completely safe, even if your dog ingests them.
Whatever type of injury your dog has, it’s important to first talk with your veterinarian before administering any new medications. “Your veterinarian is better equipped to treat your dog’s potential infections than you are at home,” says Dr. Barrack.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.