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Do you have a baby? Congratulations! There’s nothing sweeter than having a baby, other than having a canine companion! Babies need many items, such as formula, diapers, and more. Occasionally babies develop diaper rash. Many parents then reach for diaper rash cream to help their babies feel better. But what happens if a dog eats diaper rash cream?
Has your dog eaten diaper rash cream? Are you worried the diaper rash cream will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when something like this happens.
We’ve put together some information about diaper rash cream and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Diaper Rash Cream?
Diaper rash cream is an OTC ointment that’s used to prevent and treat diaper rash in babies. These products are also sometimes used to treat other skin irritations. Diaper rash cream creates a barrier between the skin and moisture. This works to keep baby’s skin from becoming irritated and sore.
Many of these products contain the following ingredients:
- Zinc oxide
- Petrolatum
- Cod liver oil
- Lanolin
- Glycerin
- Beeswax
- Tocopheryl acetate
- Fragrance
While diaper rash creams are safe for babies (when used as directed), what happens if a dog eats diaper rash cream?
Diaper Rash Creams & Dogs
Unfortunately, diaper rash creams can be toxic to dogs. However, a dog would have to eat a lot of the cream to become poisoned. Still, diaper rash creams can make a dog sick.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Diaper Rash Cream Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten a lot of diaper rash cream:
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Anemia
- Rapid breathing
- Tachycardia
- Arrhythmia
- Arrhythmia
- Discolored or highly concentrated urine
- Jaundiced gums
- Loss of appetite
- Seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet right away. This may be an emergency.
If your dog has had one small lick of diaper rash cream, chances are he will be OK. However, if your fur baby has eaten more of the cream, then he could become very sick.
The vet will work to remove the toxin from the dog’s system through inducing vomiting, using activated charcoal, or other means to decontaminate the dog. In addition, your canine companion will likely need an IV for fluids and to administer medications.
If your dog has other symptoms, the vet will treat these as they arise.
When a dog receives prompt medical care, there’s a high chance he will survive. If your fur baby has responded well to treatment, he may be able to go home with you that day. Otherwise, he may need to be hospitalized for a few days.
If your dog seems to love eating diaper rash cream, try to keep it where your dog can’t gain access to the cream. Remember, prevention is the best medicine!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
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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