The dreaded “lick” – we’ve all been there. You’re treating a rash or skin irritation, carefully applying the hydrocortisone cream, only to hear a happy “slobber” and watch your dog happily lick the medicine right off your skin. It’s a scenario that can leave pet owners panicking. So what should you do if your dog has licked hydrocortisone cream?
This article will guide you through the potential risks, immediate actions to take, and how to prevent future incidents.
Understanding the Risks of Hydrocortisone for Dogs
Hydrocortisone, a common topical steroid, is generally safe for humans, but for dogs, it can be a different story. When ingested, hydrocortisone can cause a range of adverse reactions, some more serious than others.
Potential Side Effects of Hydrocortisone Ingestion
- Gastrointestinal Upset: Dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. These are often the first signs of a problem.
- Increased Thirst and Urination: This is a common side effect of steroid use, as it can disrupt hormone balance.
- Increased Appetite: You might notice your dog wanting to eat more than usual.
- Behavioral Changes: Dogs may become restless, irritable, or even lethargic.
- Liver Problems: In rare cases, prolonged or high-dose exposure to hydrocortisone can lead to liver damage.
Assessing the Severity of the Situation
The severity of the reaction depends on several factors, including:
- Amount of cream ingested: A small lick is likely less dangerous than a large amount.
- Strength of the cream: Higher potency hydrocortisone creams are more likely to cause adverse reactions.
- Dog’s size and breed: Smaller dogs are more susceptible to toxicity than larger breeds.
- Underlying health conditions: Dogs with pre-existing health conditions might be more sensitive to the effects of hydrocortisone.
Immediate Actions: What to Do When Your Dog Licks Hydrocortisone
It’s important to act quickly, especially if you suspect your dog has ingested a significant amount of hydrocortisone.
1. Contact Your Veterinarian
This should be your first course of action. Explain the situation to your veterinarian, including how much cream was licked, the strength of the cream, and any noticeable symptoms. Your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of action.
2. Monitor Your Dog for Symptoms
Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and watch for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Make note of any changes in appetite, thirst, or urination.
3. Don’t Induce Vomiting Unless Advised
Inducing vomiting is not recommended in all cases. Your veterinarian will determine if it’s necessary and advise you on the safest method if needed.
Prevention is Key: Protecting Your Dog from Accidental Ingestion
Preventing accidental ingestion is the best way to protect your dog from potential harm.
1. Keep Medicated Products Out of Reach
Store all medications, including topical creams, in secure cabinets or containers that your dog can’t access.
2. Supervise Applications
When applying hydrocortisone cream to yourself or other family members, do so in a location where your dog can’t reach. Consider using a barrier, like a towel, to prevent licking.
3. Consider Alternatives
If you’re concerned about accidental ingestion, consult with your veterinarian about alternative treatment options for your skin condition. There may be safer alternatives that are less harmful to your furry friend.
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
In certain situations, seeking immediate veterinary care is crucial:
- Severe or persistent vomiting: If your dog vomits repeatedly or for an extended period, it could indicate serious complications.
- Diarrhea with blood: Blood in your dog’s stool is a sign of potential internal bleeding and requires immediate veterinary attention.
- Lethargy, Weakness, or Collapse: These are signs of potential systemic toxicity and require immediate medical intervention.
- Difficulty Breathing: Any signs of respiratory distress should be treated as an emergency.
Conclusion
While accidental ingestion of hydrocortisone can be worrying, it’s important to stay calm and take appropriate action. Contacting your veterinarian, monitoring your dog for symptoms, and implementing preventative measures will help ensure your furry friend’s safety and well-being. Always remember: If in doubt, err on the side of caution and seek professional veterinary advice.
FAQs
What should I do if my dog licked hydrocortisone cream?
If your dog has licked hydrocortisone cream, the first step is to try and remove any remaining cream from their mouth and fur. You can do this by wiping their mouth and fur with a damp cloth. Then, contact your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to assess the situation and provide you with the best course of action. In most cases, the amount of hydrocortisone your dog has ingested will be too small to cause serious harm. However, some dogs may experience mild side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
Is hydrocortisone cream poisonous to dogs?
Hydrocortisone cream is generally safe for human use, but it can be toxic to dogs. The amount of hydrocortisone that is considered toxic to dogs varies depending on the size and weight of the dog, as well as the concentration of the cream. If your dog has licked a significant amount of hydrocortisone cream, they may experience more severe side effects such as liver damage, kidney damage, or even death.
What are the symptoms of hydrocortisone poisoning in dogs?
The symptoms of hydrocortisone poisoning in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the poisoning. In mild cases, your dog may experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, increased thirst, and increased urination. In more severe cases, your dog may experience tremors, seizures, and even coma. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
How is hydrocortisone poisoning treated in dogs?
The treatment for hydrocortisone poisoning in dogs will depend on the severity of the poisoning. In mild cases, your veterinarian may simply recommend supportive care, such as fluids and monitoring. In more severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend activated charcoal to absorb the hydrocortisone in the dog’s stomach, or other medications to manage the symptoms of poisoning.
How can I prevent my dog from licking hydrocortisone cream?
The best way to prevent your dog from licking hydrocortisone cream is to keep it out of their reach. Store your hydrocortisone cream in a secure location, such as a high shelf or a locked cabinet. If you need to apply hydrocortisone cream to yourself, do so in a room where your dog cannot access you. And always wash your hands thoroughly after applying hydrocortisone cream to prevent your dog from licking it off your hands.
What should I do if my dog is showing signs of hydrocortisone poisoning?
If your dog is showing signs of hydrocortisone poisoning, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian will be able to assess the situation and provide you with the best course of action. You may need to take your dog to the veterinary clinic for immediate treatment.
Is there anything else I need to know about hydrocortisone cream and dogs?
While hydrocortisone cream is generally safe for human use, it can be toxic to dogs. If your dog has licked hydrocortisone cream, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to assess the situation and provide you with the best course of action. It is also important to keep all medications, including topical medications like hydrocortisone cream, out of your dog’s reach.