Is Sudocrem on Dogs Safe? (2022)

What is Sudocrem?

Sudocrem is an over the counter cream that is produced out of the UK. It’s a medicated cream that is primarily used for a diaper (nappy) rash but has several other functional uses including acne, dermatitis, dogs, etc.

Sudocrem cream contains antibacterial and antifungal agents as well as a mild anesthetic to soothe the irritated skin. Additionally, it also is made with a water-repellent base and emollient agents as well.

This cream went on the market in 1931 and has been in high demand ever since. In fact, in some markets, it is quite challenging to find in stock because of demand. It’s sold worldwide because of its popularity.

This cream was specially designed to soothe skin irritation and diaper rash but was also conveniently compounded to be versatile so that it can be used for any skin irritant – cuts, acne, eczema, sunburns, minor burns, and more. One such use is treating a dog’s irritated skin.  Sudocrem for dogs is a well-known idea.

What Are the Ingredients in Sudocrem?

If you’re going to use Sudocrem for dogs, you should be aware of the label. This will help you be able to use it appropriately and understand any potential safeguards you should practice when applying this cream to your dog.

For starters, Sudocrem’s formula has never changed. This formula remains exactly the same as it was the day they started selling the product in 1931. The formula was designed to be both soothing and healing.

The primary ingredients in Sudocrem are:

• Benzyl Alcohol
• Anhydrous Hypoallergenic Lanolin
• Zinc Oxide

Let’s break these down a bit further to understand the Sudocrem on dog ingredients.

Benzyl Alcohol

In Sudocrem, Benzyl alcohol is used as a local anesthetic as well as an antiseptic. The idea is to cleanse any wound as well as to reduce discomfort related to the irritation.  Sudocrem not only does this for dogs, but also for humans.

Benzyl alcohol is mild. It has a very low toxicity and low vapor pressure measurement. In fact, Benzyl alcohol can be found naturally in plants and is commonly found in various fruits and teas as well. You see Benzyl alcohol used in health care on a routine basis for IVs, cosmetics, and topical drugs.

Benzyl alcohol is commonly used in topical creams, soaps, cleansers, shampoos, and more because of the anti-bacterial and anti-fungal benefits.  It is considered a relatively safe ingredient for dogs. However, dog’s should not be ingesting high amounts of Benzyl Alcohol.

Anhydrous Hypoallergenic Lanolin

Anhydrous hypoallergenic lanolin is used in the Sudocrem formula as an emollient. It’s effective for soothing and softening irritated skin.  This is the reason Sudocrem on dogs is considered soothing.

This is often included in medicated treatments and used to moisturize, treat, and even prevent itchy skin and other skin irritations. If you’re not familiar with the term emollient, these are used specifically for softening and moisturizing skin irritation while also reducing any itching or flaking caused by the irritation.

This lanolin ingredient helps to form an oily layer on the top of the skin to hold in moisture.  For dogs, the lanolin in Sudocrem helps to reduce the amount of itchy skin.  The lanolin in Sudocrem is considered safe for dogs.

Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide is perhaps the ingredient that brings the most pause and concern for using Sudocrem on dogs. There is a concern for zinc toxicosis due to this ingredient if a dog consumes this in large quantities. However, if used appropriately, a dog should be perfectly fine. We have some tips for the administration shortly.

Zinc oxide is another topical ingredient. It’s commonly used in topical treatments for treating diaper rash and skin irritations like burns and cuts. This ingredient works to form a barrier on the skin. This barrier protects the skin from whatever might be causing the irritation, as well as moisture. The Zinc Oxide in the Sudocrem can be used for dogs, but they should not digest or lick it.

It is very important that this is used only on the skin for dogs. It’s not meant for ingestion, which is perhaps where the concern comes for dogs since they lick themselves often. You also may not want to use it if the irritated area is infected.

Zinc Toxicosis in Sudocrem for Dogs

We mentioned earlier that the ingredient to be most concerned about is zinc toxicosis. It’s common knowledge that dogs are not to lick zinc as it can have detrimental effects. This is true of Sudocrem for dogs. This is why we caution you to be very careful with the application.

Zinc toxicosis is a toxicity caused by the over-consumption of zinc. Dogs are not supposed to lick zinc and doing so can lead to this side effect. This is the only known side effect of using Sudocrem on dogs.

Here are some of the signs of zinc toxicosis.

• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Weakness
• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Cyanosis

These are a few of the most prominent signs that you can watch for if you suspect your dog has ingested to much zinc due to using Sudocrem.

It is possible to lose your dog from zinc toxins sickness if it is not caught and treated. However, there is treatment available and most dogs will make a full recovery. Ultimately, zinc toxicosis is considered to have relatively good prognosis results if it is caught and treated promptly.  This is the only worry for Sudocrem on dogs.

Using Sudocrem on Dogs

Sudocrem is considered non-toxic. Of course, that label is designed for humans. Humans don’t commonly lick themselves to bathe or clean. This is the primary difference between using Sudocrem for dogs and humans.

If your dog licks and ingests a large amount of Sudocrem, they could come down with zinc toxicosis. This could have dangerous results and worsen the situation.

Sudocrem is considered safe for dogs but you should be careful in how you use it. Many veterinarians recommend this product for use. We would assume that they also provide instructions on how to use it safely for dogs.

You want to ensure that your dog will not be able to lick large amounts of Sudocrem off when you apply it. How you accomplish this may vary. Whether you apply it very lightly and cover it, only apply it to areas they don’t often lick, or make them wear a cone could depend on your own preferences.

When you rub Sudocrem on dogs be sure to rub it in really well. This will also make a difference in your dog being able to lick it off in large amounts.

Ultimately, be cautious of how much you apply, where you apply, and how well you rub it in to ensure that your dog is safe.

The Final Verdict

Overall, using Sudocrem for dogs is perfectly acceptable and safe if you are very careful with your application. You will find that it is commonly recommended by veterinarians to treat skin irritations because it truly works.

There are risks with any topical treatment or medication. You must be aware of those risks and know how to work around them to protect your dog. Sudocrem is considered primarily safe for use on dogs. Keep in mind the tips for application in order to prevent negative side effects.

Sudocrem is extremely effective and reliable in treating skin irritations for both humans and dogs. So, in answer to our question “Is Sudocrem on Dogs Safe?” We say yes, it is typically safe. Just be mindful and cautious when applying and watch your dog to be sure they are not licking it off after you apply it.

Put Sudocrem to the test on your dog’s skin irritation and we think that you will see the skin clear up in no time. At the least, your dog’s irritation will be soothed and comfortable rather than miserable. If you dog is itching their ear, you can also try Zymox.

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