If you’re like most dog owners, you probably have a tube of Benadryl cream lying around the house. You may have even used it on your pup before. But is it safe to do so? In this article, we’ll discuss whether or not you can use Benadryl cream on dogs and offer some safety tips.
Can You Use Benadryl Cream on Dogs?
Dogs can use Benadryl if it is applied correctly. Excessive application can thin your dog’s skin and make healing more difficult. Use a small amount of Benadryl cream if your dog has irritated, itchy skin. Only apply the cream a couple of times a day for up to two days. Veterinary care should be sought if the skin does not improve after a day or two.
Benadryl isn’t safe for puppies if you haven’t spoken to your vet first. This is because even small amounts can have serious side effects in puppies. If your puppy is itching, talk to your vet about the best course of action. They may recommend an alternative treatment or a lower dosage of Benadryl.
Will Benadryl Make My Dog Tired?
Benadryl is a sedative, so it can make your dog drowsy. You may think that a topical cream wouldn’t induce this effect, but it can certainly make your pup tired, especially if he has taken a lot of it.
This can be a benefit if your dog’s itching or allergies have made it feel anxious. Your pup may finally calm down and leave the itchy areas along, which can help relieve the irritation and inflammation.
When Should I Use Benadryl Cream On My Dog?
You can use Benadryl cream on your dog if he is experiencing the following symptoms:
- Itchy, inflamed skin
- Allergic reactions
- Bug bites
- Small skin irritations
- Sunburn
- Small cuts, scrapes, or burns
- Motion sickness
If your dog has a larger wound, you should take him to the vet instead of using Benadryl. The same goes for any other serious medical condition you may be trying to treat with this cream.
How Long Will It Take for Benadryl Cream to Work?
The effects of Benadryl cream should be almost instantaneous. Your pup will likely begin to feel relief from his itchy skin within minutes of the cream being applied. However, if you’re using Benadryl to treat an allergic reaction, it may take a little longer for the symptoms to subside.
Can I Use Benadryl PIlls for My Dog?
You can give your dog Benadryl pills, but they may be more difficult to administer in the correct dosage. It’s very important not to overdose your dog on Benadryl, as this can be very dangerous. If you’re going to give your dog pills, make sure to get approval from your vet. This is especially true for smaller dogs or young pups who are extra vulnerable to the side effects of this medication.
Can I Use an Anti-itch Cream on My Dog?
Yes, in general, it’s safe to use anti-itch creams on your dog, as long as you avoid certain ones that are toxic to dogs. Natural solutions are a great option since they tend to be gentle and effective. You can make your own anti-itch cream by mixing together a few simple ingredients like olive oil, aloe vera, and oatmeal.
Here are some great anti-itch solution alternatives to Benadryl cream:
Calendula Cream
A great alternative cream to Benadryl cream is Calendula cream. The calendula plant has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help to soothe your pup’s itchy skin. This cream is safe for dogs of all ages and can be applied a few times a day as needed.
It’s great for helping with your pup’s eczema, psoriasis, minor burns, sunburns, chafing, excessive licking, scrapes, bites, and small cuts or wounds.
Oatmeal Paste or Cream
You can use oatmeal on your dog’s skin to help reduce itchiness, and it won’t be harmful if it is licked off. Simply combine oatmeal with water and create a paste. This is a great solution to cool off swelling and redness in the skin. Many products creating anti-itch creams and even shampoos have oatmeal as the main ingredient since it’s such a powerful yet mild solution for sensitive skin.
Aloe Vera Gel or Cream
Aloe vera is also a soothing plant that can be used on dogs to help with itchy skin. You can either use an aloe vera plant or purchase a cream that contains aloe vera. This will help to cool and hydrate your pup’s skin while also reducing redness, itchiness, and inflammation.
Coconut Oil or Cream
Coconut oil is a great natural remedy for itchy skin. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe your pup’s skin. Simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected area a few times a day. You can also add a bit of coconut oil to your dog’s food to help hydrate their skin
Chamomile Rinse
Chamomile is a plant that has anti-inflammatory properties. You can make a tea with chamomile and use it as a rinse for your dog’s skin. This will help to soothe itchiness and inflammation.
When in doubt, always speak to your veterinarian about what is best for your pup’s itchy skin. They will help you choose the best course of action and provide additional tips for keeping your dog’s skin healthy and itch-free. And remember, never use
What Kind of Anti-itch Cream Is Safe for Dogs?
Stick to Benadryl if you’re looking for a safe anti-itch cream for your dog. It’s affordable and easy to find, plus it’s gentle enough to use on dogs of all ages. You can find this medication at most drugstores or online retailers, making it easily accessible wherever you and your pup are.
Avoid using calamine lotion on your dog. Even though this can work well for humans, it can be toxic to dogs. This is because it contains zinc oxide, an ingredient that can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
Hydrocortisone cream is another option for dog owners looking for an anti-itch solution. However, this medication should only be used on a short-term basis and with approval from your veterinarian. This is because long-term use of hydrocortisone can actually make your pup’s skin condition worse. Because of this, if your pup is extra sensitive, you may just consider using Benadryl cream instead.
Other cortisone-based creams can be used in small quantities to relieve itchiness in dogs. However, it’s important to note that these creams can cause side effects like excessive licking, redness, and irritation. It’s also important that the cream is applied to an area of your dog’s body that can be reached or licked. It’s toxic for your pup to ingest. Also, avoid putting it on any open sores or wounds, once again, due to its slightly toxic nature.
Finally, there are several dog-specific products on the market that can help with your pup’s itchy skin. These usually contain ingredients like oatmeal, chamomile, and aloe vera to soothe and calm inflamed skin. Not only do they come in creams, but you can find them in shampoos, conditioners, and sprays. You can find these products at most pet stores or online retailers.
If you’re unsure about which product to choose, always ask your veterinarian for their recommendation. Your vet may recommend a specific product or may just suggest using one of the above-mentioned home remedies. Either way, they’ll be able to help you find the best solution for your pup’s itchy skin.