Don't Use Human Lotion On Your Pet

Many pets suffer with skin conditions for a variety of reasons. It is tempting to try and relieve their discomfort by using your own lotions and creams, but using lotions intended for humans on pets can be potentially dangerous for several reasons:

* Different Skin Needs: Pets have different skin pH levels and sensitivities compared to humans. Human lotions are specifically formulated for human skin, which may not be suitable for your pet. Using the wrong products may not provide the desired effects and could potentially worsen existing skin conditions or create new ones.

* Potential Harmful Ingredients: Many human lotions contain ingredients that can be toxic or irritating to your dog or cat. Pets, especially dogs, lick their fur and skin. If they are wearing the products and ingest them, it can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Some fragrances, essential oils (ex: tea tree oil), preservatives, or artificial sweeteners (like xylitol) can be extremely dangerous for pets and may require immediate veterinary attention. It's important to carefully read the ingredient list and ensure they are safe to use for your pet.

* Allergic Reactions: Dogs and cats, like humans, can have allergic reactions to certain ingredients found in human lotions. Applying human lotion to your pet's skin may trigger allergic reactions such as redness, itching, swelling, or hives. Some pets may be more prone to allergies than others, so it's important to be cautious when applying any new product to their skin.

* Pet-Safe Alternatives: There are numerous pet-specific lotions and skincare products available that are formulated specifically for dogs and cats. These products take into account the unique needs and sensitivities of canine and feline skin. Your veterinarian can recommend suitable pet-specific lotions or provide guidance on proper skincare for your pet.

Human Lotions Can Harm Your Pet

Now that many of us are home spending more time with our pets, it’s important to revisit this topic. Some human lotions are unsafe for pets. Use caution to prevent medicated lotions from getting onto your pet’s fur and/or being ingested. Pets may be drawn to the smell of your lotion and want to lick it off. As a warning about hormone creams, pets need to be kept away from your wrists  Hormone creams (especially estrogen) that are rubbed on the inside wrist or elbow can easily be transferred to a pet and can cause hormonal imbalances in pets. Antifungal creams, calamine lotion, sunscreen and muscle rubs are just a few of the topical treatments that can make pets sick if ingested.

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