Is Antibiotic ointment Toxic to Pets?

Yes — antibiotic ointment is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — antibiotic ointment is mildly toxic to dogs.

CatsMildly toxicIs antibiotic ointment toxic to cats? →DogsMildly toxicIs antibiotic ointment toxic to dogs? →

PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.

Toxic compound: Petroleum base, antibiotics
Toxic parts: Tube
Also known as: neosporin

Symptoms

Cats (mildly toxic)

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Reduced appetite

Dogs (mildly toxic)

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Reduced appetite

What to do

If your cat ate antibiotic ointment

Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.

If your dog ate antibiotic ointment

Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.

Good to know

Ointments like Neosporin usually cause only mild vomiting or diarrhea if licked. The tube itself can be a blockage risk.

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Frequently asked questions

Is antibiotic ointment toxic to cats?

Yes — antibiotic ointment is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite.

Is antibiotic ointment toxic to dogs?

Yes — antibiotic ointment is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite.

Which parts of antibiotic ointment are toxic?

Tube.

What makes antibiotic ointment toxic?

Petroleum base, antibiotics.

Related guides

Human medications

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