Whenever we get a scrape or cut, it is a natural tendency for us to look for an ointment or drug to treat our wounds. Many of us use a popular ointment called Neosporin for healing wounds. We already know that Neosporin is safe for humans, but what about animals, especially dogs?
Some pet owners prefer using Neosporin for dogs when they get minor cuts during rough play. But what they should be asking before using a topical antibiotic product like Neosporin is whether it is safe for dogs.
It doesn’t matter how familiar you are with a medicine; conducting research before using it on your pets is a good idea. This informs if the ointment is harming them or not. That being said, let us now find out the answer to the question, “Is Neosporin safe for dogs?”
What Is Neosporin?
Neosporin is a brand that specializes in topical antibiotic products that are used for healing wounds. These products are designed for treating minor scrapes and cuts. It is a very effective ointment that is used by millions of people around the world.
It has a petroleum base and consists of three tropical antibiotic ingredients:
- Polymyxin B sulfate
- Neomycin sulfate
- Bacitracin zinc
These ingredients are combined in the right proportion to make the ointment effective and treat wounds. It is also effective for preventing infection and keeping the affected area moist.
Some Neosporin ointments contain pramoxine which is a topical anesthetic that is good for reducing itching and pain. These products are safe for humans and available over-the-counter.
Can You Use Neosporin On Your Dog?
Neosporin is a versatile ointment that is not good for both humans and dogs. This means pet owners can use it on their dogs to treat minor scrapes and cuts.
To be on the safer side, pet owners should take the initiative and consult a vet before applying this ointment to their dogs. This way one can confirm if using Neosporin is good for dogs.
A small amount of Neosporin helps prevent infection and faster recovery. However, pet owners should be careful when applying such ointments because dogs can lick them off their skin. Since this ointment is only for external use, it might create issues if dogs ingest it accidentally.
Neosporin is not recommended for internal use, and therefore, dogs shouldn’t consume it. It causes gastrointestinal issues in dogs if ingested. Also, pet owners shouldn’t use this ointment in areas such as the mouth, eyes, and ears.
Neosporin is designed for treating minor cuts, and therefore, one shouldn’t use it for treating deep or large wounds. If the wound on your dog’s body is bleeding, swollen, or has a discharge, you should consult a vet. Also, if the wound doesn’t get better within a few days after applying Neosporin, you should seek medical attention for your pet.
When To Use Neosporin?
Neosporin is a good option for treating minor scrapes and cuts, and applying a small amount is safe when your dog gets injured. But if the wound doesn’t improve and starts bleeding, then you should stop applying it and seek medical help.
A professional is the right person to check if the wound has signs of infection and determine if your pet needs additional treatment.
Is Neosporin Safe For Dogs?
Using Neosporin the right way is safe for dogs. As long as they are not ingesting the ointment, things are fine. But dogs tend to lick their skin, especially when the areas are hurt. This increases the risk of them licking off the ointment, which then reaches their stomach and causes issues.
All types of topical antibiotic ointments encourage dogs to lick the affected area, and therefore, pet owners should be careful while using such products. If your dog ingests Neosporin, it causes upset stomach or gastrointestinal problems.
Ingesting a small amount of Neosporin by licking may not trigger stomach problems, but that doesn’t mean you stop being careful. Dogs have a natural balance of microorganisms in their guts, and ingesting topical antibiotics such as Neosporin disrupts it. This leads to vomiting, diarrhea, and other stomach problems.
Licking wounds is harmful because it increases the risk of infection and causes irritation. This in turn slows down the recovery rate and increases suffering for your pet. Some dogs get allergic reactions from Neosporin which causes facial swelling, hives, rash, or anaphylaxis.
It is because of these reasons you should be careful when using Neosporin or any other topical antibiotic product on your dog.
Neosporin Original First Aid Antibiotic Ointment Review
It is common for dogs to get hurt while running or playing, but that doesn’t mean you will restrict them from enjoying. For all pet owners who are always concerned about their dogs getting hurt, Neosporin Original First Aid Antibiotic Ointment is the solution.
This triple antibiotic ointment is very effective in killing germs and preventing wounds from getting infected. It provides long-lasting protection and increases the recovery rate. It is a good and safe ointment for treating minor scrapes and cuts in dogs.
It is formulated with bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B. These ingredients provide 24-hour protection and fight against infection. The good thing about this formula is that it nourishes the skin and reduces the appearance of scars.
Neosporin Original First Aid Antibiotic Ointment is good for dogs and humans. For treating wounds, applying a thin layer of the product 2-3 times a day is enough. For extra protection and preventing your dog from licking off the ointment, using a band-aid is a good idea.
Pros
- Long-lasting protection
- Faster recovery
- Prevent infection
- Reduces scar appearance
- Very effective
- Affordable
Cons
- Causes stomach issues if ingested
- Not for internal use
Final Thoughts
Dogs getting scrapes and cuts is a common thing. As a pet owner, you should care for your dog and treat them properly when they get hurt. For minor cuts, using Neosporin is fine. It is a safe product for dogs as long as they are not ingesting it. For larger and infected wounds, pet owners should seek medical help
