What ingredients should I avoid in sunscreen for dogs?
Nya Carter
2025-07-30 22:19:36
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The main ingredients to avoid when picking a sunscreen for pets are zinc oxide and a group of chemicals referred to as salicylates. With repeated exposure to zinc oxide on the skin, pets can develop zinc toxicity, which can damage the red blood cells. Salicylates are products in the same category as aspirin, and when applied to the skin, your pet may develop mild skin redness and irritation. If you do pick a veterinarian-approved sunscreen for your pet, make sure it does not contain zinc oxide, and make sure it has a low concentration of salicylates. The zinc oxide in some products can contribute to stomach upset and possibly an allergic reaction, which can lead to swelling of the face and hives on your pet. If they eat a very large amount of sunscreen, the salicylates in the sunscreen can potentially cause ulcers in the stomach and even liver damage, although this is very unlikely.
Gerardo Christiansen
2025-07-30 21:44:15
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Ingredients to Avoid Zinc oxide and PABA are common in human sunscreens but can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Human sunscreens can contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as zinc oxide. Look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection, are non-toxic, and are free of fragrances and parabens. Always opt for products free of these ingredients and consult with a veterinarian at Warrick Veterinary Clinic if you’re unsure about a product.
Victoria Konopelski
2025-07-30 21:24:47
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Most importantly, AVOID sunscreens with zinc oxide. Zinc oxide can damage a dog’s red blood cells, cause them to rupture then leading to vomiting and diarrhea, and anemia. Other chemicals to consider avoiding are para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), octinoxate, oxybenzone, triethanolamine, imidurea, methyl paraben, octisalate, DMDM hydantoin and benzophenone-3. Some of these ingredients are found in “doggy safe” sunscreens. Bottom line is to be careful with sunscreens on dogs and avoid zinc oxide.
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