What If My Dog Licks Silver Sulfadiazine?

Silver Sulfadiazine heals burns in dogs and cats. But what if my dog licks silver sulfadiazine cream? Is it poisonous for dogs? Read on to know more.

Silver Sulfadiazine is a topical cream used to heal second and third-degree burns in dogs and cats. But what if my dog licks silver Sulfadiazine? 

This antibacterial cream is not toxic. But if your dog licks the cream away, it will not heal the wounds. You need to get a large E-collar so your dog cannot reach the wounds. You can apply the cream just before putting it on the collar.

The silver sulfadiazine cream protects against yeast infection and other bacterial strains like E-coli and Staph. It helps relieve itching in dogs and cats. If the burns are not treated the right way, they will become more infected with bacteria and yeast and even lead to serious infections. 

In this article let us look at more detail about silver sulfadiazine, how it is applied, what are its side effects, and what other medications help treat infection in dogs.

How Do I Apply Silver Sulfadiazine Cream To My Dog?

Most veterans prescribe using this cream for dogs and cats to heal the burns and reduce further infection. If  your dog is left without treating the wound, it can lead to severe infection and health risks. 

However, it is advisable to consult your vet before applying any cream to heal the wounds. 

Let us look at the right way to apply the cream to your dog.

• Before applying the cream to your pet, wash your hands with soap and clean your pet’s affected area as told by your vet. Once you clean the wound, wash your hands properly and wear disposal gloves to avoid infecting your dog with more bacterial infections and other infections into the burned part.
• Follow your vet’s advice and apply the cream to the wounds. Apply it in a layer that is 1/16th inch thick. 
• You need to apply the cream at least two times a day or as told by your vet. After applying the cream, you need to leave the wound open. If your dog licks the cream, you can put a gauze bandage over it. Make sure the wound is covered with this topical cream all the time. Like if the cream clears off when the dog sits in its bed or any other cloth, you will have to apply the cream again. If your pet gets wet, always make sure to reapply the cream. 

What Are The Side Effects Of Silver Sulfadiazine?

The most common side effect is skin irritation, but there can be harsher side effects too.

When treating your pet with silver sulfadiazine, you need to keep a check on your pet’s wound and take care of it until it is healed completely. Some pets have skin irritation, which mostly happens when they are already into other medications.

Some pets have certain allergic reactions that include swelling on the face and lips, hives, difficulty breathing. You need to consult your vet if you find any of these side effects:

• Fever and Chills
• Bleeding
• Weakness
•  Dark-colored urine 
• Ulcers near the wound
• Drowsiness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight gain
• Skin rash

Some pets may have mild effects like itching, burning sensation, or upset stomach. You can talk to your vet if the side effects don’t go away or you find anything troubling your dog.

Is Silver Sulfadiazine Poisonous To Dogs?

No, it is not poisonous to dogs. 

If your dog licks silver sulfadiazine, it won’t harm them. But will not heal the wounds as well. It is better to apply the cream when you feed your dog as it will distract them for some time.

If your dog is allergic to sulfur or such drugs, you should avoid using them. Also, you cannot apply this cream to pregnant or nursing pets. Consult your vet if your pet has any liver or kidney problems.

Can Cephalexin Treat Skin Infection In Dogs?

Yes, Cephalexin is used to treat infections in dogs.

Cephalexin is an antibiotic medicine used to treat bacterial infections in dogs and prevent spreading infection. 

It is an oral medication that comes in tablet or capsule form, and most vets prescribe this antibiotic for skin infections in dogs. Ask your vet about the dosage and possible side effects which giving this medication to your dog.

What Diseases Can Be Treated With Cephalexin?

Cephalexin is used for the treatment of different bacterial infections that include:

• Urinary tract infections
• Ear infections
• Staph Infections
• Hotspots and pyoderma
• Respiratory tract infections
• Bone infection
• E-coli
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Klebsiella Pneumonia

How Is Cephalexin Given To Dogs?

You need to give the medication to your dog as per your vet’s instructions. Your vet may adjust the dosage as per your dog’s weight. It can be given with food or without it. But if you find your dog vomiting or looks sick after the medication, then give them their meals. 

Usually, the amount of medication given is 10 to 15 mg, depending on your dog’s weight. Vets recommend giving this drug to dogs at least two times a day. You need to read the instructions carefully and give your vet’s advice.

Don’t overdose on the drug else; it can lead to gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and vomiting in dogs. And if your pet is sensitive to medications, it can worsen the issue and cause severe reactions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

Silver sulfadiazine is a topical ointment that helps heal second and third-degree burns in pets. It works by preventing the growth of bacteria and reducing the infection. Avoid using it on pets who are allergic to sulfur products, pregnant, or nursing. It is advisable to consult a vet before applying any cream to the wounds.

I hope we have answered your question: What if my dog licks Silver Sulfadiazine. The cream is not toxic but will just not be beneficial to the burns and will not heal the wounds if your dog licks it.  You might also like to read about other medicines for dogs such as Metacam and Zzzquil.