Ugh, it is the worst when your skin is feeling itchy, irritated, and red! Thankfully, we can reach for hydrocortisone cream to help relieve that uncomfortable feeling. What about when your dog is experiencing the same discomfort on their skin? Good thing hydrocortisone cream is used for both human and veterinary medicine. Be sure to apply the hydrocortisone cream after consulting with your veterinarian and receiving dog-friendly cream and make sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions before applying.
What are Common Uses of Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs?
Studies have shown that hydrocortisone cream is an effective treatment for skin problems in dogs. Do not let your dog eat hydrocortisone cream. Your vet will give you directions for how to apply hydrocortisone cream. Hydrocortisone cream for dogs is often used to treat the following problems:
- Calm irritations such as rashes and bug bites
- Skin allergies
- Inflammatory skin diseases
- Infections like hot spots
- Ear infections
Can Hydrocortisone Cream Harm My Dog?
As long as you use dog-safe hydrocortisone cream, your dog should be fine. It is normal for dogs to lick an area that is irritated. If your dog keeps licking the area where you applied the cream, they may experience mild side effects. These side effects can include panting, increased hunger/thirst, and pacing. In some cases, these creams may contain harmful ingredients. If your dog has licked the cream and you’re not sure if it’s dangerous or not, contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline® to determine the risks. Signs of hydrocortisone toxicity may include vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the abdomen, black tarry stool, etc.
To prevent this potential risk, you can use a cone shaped collar so your dog cannot reach the inflamed area and lick the cream.
What is a Long-Term Alternative for Hydrocortisone Cream?
Hydrocortisone cream is a short-term solution that should not be relied upon indefinitely. See your vet if your dog’s skin remains red and inflamed or begins to pus. The root of the condition may be discovered and correctly treated by your veterinarian.
When your dog’s skin is feeling uncomfortable, irritated, and inflamed you want to do anything you can to help them. Dog-friendly hydrocortisone cream prescribed by your vet may be the answer to that relief. While it can be used on dogs you still need to be aware of the risks of using it. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 for help.
