Hair-loss treatment poisoning cats, charity says
Minoxidil can have a devasting effect on cats if ingested.
Cats Protection has issued a warning after a number of cat poisonings were linked to hair-loss treatments.
The charity has seen more than 20 reported cases of such poisonings due to the topical treatment, although the actual number is expected to be higher.
Minoxidil is the active ingredient in the over-the-counter treatment for thinning hair. While it is safe for humans, it can have a devastating effect on cats if ingested.
The charity says that direct ingestion from the medicine bottle or its applicator is uncommon, with most poisonings resulting from everyday, unintended contact with owners.
Cats may instead lick minoxidil directly from their owner’s skin or consume residue that has been transferred onto their fur during grooming. They may also encounter traces of minoxidil left on bedding or clothing.
Even very small amounts of the ingredient, including drops or spills, can cause life-threatening illness.
Cats Protection warns that minoxidil can cause profound hypotension in cats. Reported effects have included pulmonary oedema or pleural effusion, respiratory distress, weakness and collapse.
Symptomatic cats have often required intensive care, with some deteriorating rapidly.
Sarah Merrett, head of Cat Welfare Engagement, said: “Topical products should be applied away from pets, hands washed thoroughly afterwards and treatments allowed to dry fully before contact with animals.
“Cats should be kept away from bedding that may have been contaminated and all medications kept securely out of reach. Anyone unsure about the safety of a product should seek advice and, if an owner suspects their cat has licked or touched any human topical medication, they should immediately contact their vet.”
However, minoxidil is not the only treatment the charity has warned against. Cats Protection says that any product that remains on human skin could be ingested by a pet cat.
Among the medicines of concern are anti-inflammatory gels (such as ibuprofen), Hormone Replacement Therapy gels and other dermal medications. Other medicines include psoriasis creams, ointments with potent forms of vitamin D and anticancer treatments such as 5-fluorouracil.
Many of these can be lethal even in minute quantities.
Sarah added: “Given the frequency with which GPs prescribe or recommend dermal treatments, a brief reminder to patients with pets could help prevent avoidable and distressing toxicities,”
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Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
