Dogs are sometimes pretty challenging to understand, especially when they eat strange things. Some dogs eat almost anything and may even try to eat something like Bactroban! They may do this out of curiosity, hunger, and other reasons. But what happens if a dog eats Bactroban?
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Has your dog eaten Bactroban? Are you worried that Bactroban will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about Bactroban and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Bactroban?
Bactroban, also referred to as mupirocin, is an antibiotic ointment that’s used to treat impetigo, skin infections, and MRSA colonization. This ointment may be used alone or in combination with other medications. This ointment is only used on the skin and should not be ingested.
While this antibiotic ointment is considered safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats Bactroban?
Bactroban & Dogs
Bactroban is used in veterinary medicine to treat certain conditions in dogs. The ointment is used to treat bacterial skin infections in dogs, including hot spots. The medication should only be used as directed by the vet. It’s important to keep your dog from licking the area for 20 to 30 minutes after the medication has been applied.
However, Bactroban is not supposed to be licked or eaten and can make a dog sick. The medication is not highly toxic, but it can cause digestive upset if ingested.

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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Bactroban Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms is your dog has eaten Bactroban:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
These symptoms may last between 12 to 24 hours; however, if they last longer, it’s best to call the vet. Persistent diarrhea can cause your dog to become dehydrated.
Treatment for Bactroban Ingestion in Dogs
The vet has medications that will stop persistent diarrhea and vomiting. They can also treat your fur baby’s nausea so that he can feel better. In addition, the vet will also check your fur baby to see if he’s become dehydrated.
If your dog is dehydrated, the vet may give your dog an IV with fluids. The fluids work to rehydrate your dog and help him feel better.
The good news is that most dogs will make a full recovery after eating Bactroban. In the future, it’s best to keep Bactroban and other medications out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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