Chlorhexidine is a very common disinfectant in home medicine cabinets. Both in humans and in dogs it can be used for the disinfection of small, light and superficial wounds. But our veterinarian can also prescribe chlorhexidine for oral or skin problems. In these cases, we must follow their instructions regarding frequency and duration of treatment to avoid adverse reactions.
In this article on our site we are going to talk about chlorhexidine for dogs, what are its most common uses, the most appropriate dosage and what side effects it could produce, especially if we do not apply it following the instructions of the veterinarian.
What is chlorhexidine?
Chlorhexidine is a wide-spectrum antiseptic and topical use. It is a chemical substance, specifically a cationic bisguanide, that eliminates or reduces the populations of microorganisms capable of triggering infections. It is effective against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, eliminating them or controlling their reproduction, fungi, yeasts and viruses.
It is one of the most widely used disinfectants in veterinary medicine and maintains a certain residual effect for a few hours after application. It is a liquid for topical use, that is, on the skin. In no case is it ingested. We can find chlorhexidine in solution to apply directly or in spray to pulverize, which facilitates its use. There is also chlorhexidine in shampoo and gel. It can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription.
Uses of chlorhexidine for dogs
Chlorhexidine has multiple applications in dogs, especially in dermatology and dentistry. As it is an antiseptic, logically its main use is skin disinfection, for example when the dog injures itself. Especially if it comes from a bite, there is a considerable risk of bacterial infection, so it is advisable to apply a disinfectant to prevent this complication.
Chlorhexidine for wounds in dogs can be found combined with other substances to enhance its disinfectant action. If any of them is an alcohol, it should not be applied to open wounds. The vet will recommend the most suitable option for our dog. Remember that at home you should only treat minor and superficial wounds. The extensive or deep ones have to be valued and treated by the veterinarian. Chlorhexidine is always applied after thoroughly washing the wound.
Chlorhexidine can also be used for oral hygiene, thanks to its antiseptic and antiplaque effect and its low systemic absorption. Hence its use, for example, to combat bacterial plaque that accumulates on teeth or as part of the treatment against gingivitis, periodontal disease or stomatitis.
In shampoo it can be used to help treat different dermatological pathologies, such as dermatitis or pyoderma. It can also be combined with different active ingredients, so the right shampoo has to be prescribed by the vet. By the way, if you only have chlorhexidine shampoo left at home and you urgently need to bathe your dog, you can do it, but don't use it all the time. Bathing a dog without any dermatological problem with chlorhexidine would dry out its skin.
Finally, chlorhexidine can be used by the veterinarian to disinfect the skin before proceeding to make a surgical incision, for example, in castration. It is also recommended to disinfect the incision that the dog will have after the operation to avoid infections.
Dose of chlorhexidine for dogs
The important thing is the concentration of chlorhexidine used, since it must be adequate for the intended use. Thus, chlorhexidine, in shampoo or in solution, is usually found in concentrations of between 0.5 and 4% In addition to the appropriate concentration, the veterinarian will tell you how many times a day you should disinfect your dog with chlorhexidine or how often you have to bathe it, if it is chlorhexidine in shampoo. It will also specify for how long.
Normally, wounds require treatment 1-2 times a day for as long as it takes to heal. Baths with chlorhexidine shampoo are usually repeated between 2-4 times a week, although it will depend a lot on the condition of the dog and the condition to be treated. In any case, if the lesions do not evolve as expected, the veterinarian will have to reconsider the treatment.
Side Effects of Chlorhexidine for Dogs
Properly used chlorhexidine is safe, thanks to its low absorption and toxicity. In any case, if you notice any adverse reaction in your dog when applying it, such as redness or itching of the skin, inform your veterinarian and avoid using it again. You can use another disinfectant. Of course, do not apply chlorhexidine to dogs that are allergic to this product or suspected of being so.
Don't forget that only has topical use, that is, on the skin. It should never be ingested. Also be very careful not to get it in your eyes or inside your ears. Yes it can be used in the ear. In the event of an accident, rinse with plenty of water and contact the vet.
On the other hand, bacterial resistance may also occur if the veterinarian's recommendations for correct use are not followed. Likewise, this professional will have to assess the risks and benefits of using chlorhexidine during pregnancy, lactation and the first months of the puppy's life.
