Are our topical meds making our pets sick?

Be very careful if you have a companion animal and use any kind of medicinal body cream, spray or gel, i.e., hormones, analgesics, treatments for psoriasis, etc.

We know how pets are prone to licking everything and that includes their human's hands, legs, or arms. Unfortunately, they can wind up absorbing these medications orally and becoming really sick.

Veterinarians from various parts of the country are reporting seeing dogs and cats with enlarged breast tissue, occasional vaginal bleeding, and confusing blood test results. Some cases are extreme, such as animals who appear pregnant, despite having been spayed months or years before.

Simply wiping your hands after using a cream, gel, or spray medication isn't enough to prevent your pet from absorbing the medication, experts say.

Here are some recommended precautions to take if you are currently using topical medications:

1. Creams, gels, and sprays can be effective if used on areas other than hands, arms, and legs. Try your backs and shoulders, or other places less accessible to your pet.

2. If you do have to place topical medications on your hands, arms, or legs, such as hormones, cover any affected skin left exposed.

3. If you must be with an animal while using topical medications, try to avoid close contact until the preparation has completely dried.

4. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after using any medications.

5. To be extra cautious, wear disposable gloves when handling topical products, but be sure to properly dispose of the gloves when finished.

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