Chlorhexidine is a useful and safe drug for the disinfection of wounds, lesions, erosions and skin disorders such as feline acne, certain infections and pododermatitis, as well as as a complement to other treatments for dermatological problems in this kind like ringworm. It is an especially effective drug for Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, with growth inhibitory and bactericidal action. Due to its low percutaneous and gastrointestinal absorption in case of accidental ingestion, it is a safe and effective active ingredient in cats of all ages.
What is Chlorhexidine?
Chlorhexidine is an active ingredient from the group of biguanide cationic compounds with great utility in the feline species as a topical antiseptic as it is active against numerous microorganismsboth Gram-positive and Gram-negative, although it is not effective against other pathogens such as acid-fast bacteria, viruses, fungi and spores.
Chlorhexidine has a cutaneous use, it is not inactivated by organic matter and its absorption through the skin is minimal, acting in less than 30 seconds and persisting 25% of its applied amount up to 30 days after administration.
The bactericidal action mechanism of this drug is based on the coagulation of the bacterial cell content through a rapid fixation of bacteria to which:
- Absorbs phosphorous compounds from its surface, escaping from the mechanisms of cell wall exclusion and attraction to the cytoplasmic membrane.
- Induces the loss of low molecular weight cytoplasmic components and the precipitation of their cytoplasm with the creation of complexes with phosphates.
In addition, it also inhibits bacterial growth by inhibiting growth by direct action of the energy-transporting ATPase.
Uses of Chlorhexidine for cats
What is chlorhexidine for cats? Chlorhexidine in cats can be used as a skin solution spray or by use in treatment-type shampoos for dermatological problems in cats.
- When is used in the form of a skin solution: either in dropper or spray format, it is used to disinfect superficial skin lesions such as erosions, cuts, wounds, non-open surgical wounds, scratches and burns, as well as for other types of skin processes such as feline acne, pyoderma, nail infections or pododermatitis.
- When Applied with a shampoo: It is especially effective in treating Staphylococcus intermedius skin infections and as an adjuvant or aid to griseofulvin in the treatment of dermatophytosis or ringworm caused by Microsporum canis.
How to use Chlorhexidine in cats?
Chlorhexidine in cats is for cutaneous use, when it is applied in liquid form to apply on eroded or injured skin it is used undiluted and after having cleaned the area The lesion should be sprayed from one to several times a day depending on the severity of the condition as your veterinarian considers.
Depending on the format, it can be applied by direct spraying or by applying a quantity of the product on a cotton swab and giving a few small touches on the lesion for disinfection.
If applied as a shampoo, it should be used twice a weekuntil hair cultures are negative for the fungus Microsporum canis and treatment should never be exceeded beyond 16 weeks. In long-haired cats, it could be a good option to shave the hair a little so that it penetrates better.
The cat should be wet with clean water, apply the shampoo to several points and massage until the foam covers the fur and skin, not forgetting areas such as around the lips, under the tail and between the toes. the hind legs. Leave to rest for 10 minutes and then proceed to rinse with clean water, letting it dry naturally.
Chlorhexidine side effects for cats
Due to its cutaneous application and its wide safety margin as it is not absorbed through the skin or well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, if the cat ingests the product or licks the area treated with chlorhexidine, it is practically impossible an overdose or intoxication by the product. However, it can occur occasionally:
- Reactions of photosensitization: to contact with the sun.
- Appearance of dermatitis: if its administration is exceeded in quantity and/or time. Don't hesitate to take a look at the following article on our site about atopic dermatitis in cats: its symptoms and treatment.
Contraindications of Chlorhexidine for cats
The only indication for the use of chlorhexidine in cats is its external use by direct application to the skin of cats that require it. If this active ingredient comes into contact with your cat's eyes, you should wash them immediately. It is also not convenient for the cat to ingest the product either in shampoo or skin solution, so you must have it controlled so that this does not happen.
Chlorhexidine should not be used in cats allergic to the active ingredient or any of its excipients or if redness or itching appears after use. It is important that chlorhexidine-treated kittens not come into contact with lactating females until their coats are completely dry. In addition, in the case of the shampoo that is associated with griseofulvin, it should not be used in pregnant females because it is contraindicated in this physiological stage of cats.
