As a dog owner, you may have Benadryl cream at home and might have applied it to your furry friend in the past. However, it is crucial to know if using Benadryl cream on dogs is safe or not. This article will explore this topic and provide some safety recommendations.
Can You Use Benadryl Cream on Dogs?
If applied correctly, Benadryl cream can be used on dogs to relieve irritated and itchy skin. However, overuse of the cream can lead to thinning of the dog’s skin, which may hinder the healing process. It is recommended to use a small amount of the cream and limit application to a maximum of two times per day for up to two days. If there is no improvement in the dog’s skin condition after a day or two, it is advisable to seek veterinary care.
If you haven’t consulted your vet, it’s not safe to use Benadryl on puppies as even small amounts can cause severe side effects. In case your puppy is experiencing itching, it’s best to discuss with your vet for alternative treatments or a reduced dosage of Benadryl.
Will Benadryl Make My Dog Tired?
Benadryl cream can cause drowsiness in dogs as it is a sedative. Even though it is a topical application, excessive use of it can make your furry friend feel tired.
If your dog is feeling anxious due to itching or allergies, using Benadryl cream can be beneficial as it may help calm them down and prevent them from scratching the affected areas, ultimately reducing irritation and inflammation.
When Should I Use Benadryl Cream On My Dog?
If your dog is experiencing the symptoms listed below, it is safe to apply Benadryl cream:
- Itchy, inflamed skin
- Allergic reactions
- Bug bites
- Small skin irritations
- Sunburn
- Minor lacerations, abrasions, or thermal injuries
- Motion sickness
If you are attempting to treat a significant medical condition with Benadryl cream, or if your dog has a substantial wound, it is recommended that you take them to the veterinarian instead of using the cream.
How Long Will It Take for Benadryl Cream to Work?
When using Benadryl cream on dogs, the relief from itchy skin should be immediate and noticeable within minutes of application, although if it is being used to treat an allergic reaction, it may take some time for the symptoms to diminish.
Can I Use Benadryl PIlls for My Dog?
While it is possible to give your dog Benadryl pills, it can be challenging to administer the correct dosage, and it’s crucial not to overdose your pet as this can pose a severe risk. Seeking approval from your veterinarian before giving pills is essential, particularly for smaller dogs or young puppies who are more susceptible to the medication’s adverse effects.
Can I Use an Anti-itch Cream on My Dog?
As a rule, using anti-itch creams on your dog is safe, provided that you steer clear of those that are poisonous to dogs; opting for natural remedies is an excellent choice because they are usually mild and efficient. You can create your own anti-itch cream by blending some basic components such as olive oil, aloe vera, and oatmeal.
There are several effective substitutes for Benadryl cream to relieve itching in dogs:
Calendula Cream
Calendula cream is a viable substitute for Benadryl cream, as it possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics that can alleviate your dog’s irritated skin. This cream is suitable for dogs of any age and can be used multiple times daily if necessary.
Benadryl Cream can be useful in treating your dog’s eczema, psoriasis, minor burns, sunburns, chafing, excessive licking, scrapes, bites, and small cuts or wounds.
Oatmeal Paste or Cream
Oatmeal can be used on dogs to alleviate itchiness without causing harm if licked off, by mixing it with water to create a paste that can effectively reduce swelling and redness in the skin; this is why many anti-itch creams and shampoos contain oatmeal as their primary ingredient due to its potency and gentleness for sensitive skin.
Aloe Vera Gel or Cream
Aloe vera is a beneficial plant that can be applied to dogs to alleviate their itchy skin. You have the option of using an actual aloe vera plant or buying a cream infused with aloe vera. This will provide a cooling and moisturizing effect on your furry friend’s skin, as well as diminish any redness, irritation, and swelling.
Coconut Oil or Cream
Coconut oil can be an effective and natural solution for relieving your dog’s itchy skin, as it possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can provide comfort to your furry friend. You can apply a small quantity of coconut oil to the affected area multiple times a day or mix it with their food to keep their skin hydrated.
Chamomile Rinse
Chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory characteristics, and you can create a tea using it to rinse your dog’s skin, which will alleviate irritation and swelling.
If you are uncertain, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian regarding the most suitable treatment for your dog’s irritated skin. Your vet can guide you in selecting the appropriate course of action and offer further advice on maintaining your dog’s skin health and preventing itchiness. Additionally, keep in mind that Benadryl cream should never be used.
What Kind of Anti-itch Cream Is Safe for Dogs?
If you are searching for a secure anti-itch cream for your dog, it is recommended to use Benadryl. It is not only cost-effective and readily available at most drugstores or online retailers, but also mild enough to be used on dogs of any age.
Avoid applying calamine lotion on your furry friend as it may be toxic to them, despite its effectiveness for humans. The presence of zinc oxide in this lotion can be harmful to dogs if they ingest it.
Benadryl cream can be a suitable alternative for dog owners who want to relieve their pet’s itching. Although hydrocortisone cream is also an option, it should only be used for a short period and with the approval of a veterinarian because prolonged use can exacerbate your dog’s skin condition.
Although other creams containing cortisone can be used in small amounts to alleviate itchiness in dogs, it is crucial to keep in mind that these creams may result in side effects such as excessive licking, redness, and irritation. Additionally, it is essential to apply the cream only on areas of your dog’s body that are accessible or lickable since ingestion of the cream can be toxic for your furry friend. Furthermore, refrain from using it on any open wounds or sores due to its mildly poisonous properties.
There are various dog-specific remedies available in the market that can assist with relieving your dog’s itchy skin. These products typically consist of ingredients such as oatmeal, chamomile, and aloe vera, which can alleviate and pacify inflamed skin. These remedies come in different forms like creams, shampoos, conditioners, and sprays and can be purchased from pet stores or online retailers.
If you are uncertain about which product to select, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian for their suggestion. Your vet might suggest a particular product or recommend using one of the home remedies mentioned above. In any case, they will assist you in finding the most suitable solution for your dog’s irritated skin.
You can also check this YouTube video about this topic:
Related posts
Why does my dog howl in his sleep?
Why does my dog poop on my bed?
Why does my dog lick his testicles?
Why does my dog chew blankets?
Why does my dog sleep under the bed?
Check out our top 10 reviews!
[Wikipedia] [Encyclopedia Britannica] [National Geographic] [cdc.gov] [Purina]