A tube of hydrocortisone cream on a domestic bathroom top with a blue background.
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Hydrocortisone For Cats: Uses, Dosage, & Side Effects

Hydrocortisone for cats is a topical steroid that is used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s the generic name for a medicine that’s sometimes also sold under the brand name Zymox.

The medication works by preventing the body from producing histamines, which can cause a cat to experience a variety of allergic reactions. It comes in a range of topical forms, including creams, wipes, and lotions.

You don’t require a veterinarian to prescribe it; although, it is always best practice to speak to your vet before administering any medication to your kitty.

Closely follow your vet’s instructions when it comes to administering the correct and safe dosage and frequency. Here’s what you should know about the uses, dosage, and side effects of hydrocortisone for cats.

Uses Of Hydrocortisone For Cats

Hydrocortisone for cats is a topical steroid that works by successfully controlling the production of the histamines that affect your cat during an allergic reaction.

It can also help treat kitties who are experiencing a range of skin conditions, including bug bites, itches, and red patches of skin. The medication commonly comes in a 1% formula, but it’s also available in higher percentage and more concentrated versions.

Dosage Of Hydrocortisone For Cats

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Hydrocortisone for cats will be administered in a variety of different ways depending on both the form of the medicine and the ailment it’s being used to treat. Always make sure to precisely follow the instructions about dosage and administration given to you by your vet.

Additionally, when administering a topical medicine to a cat, it’s always important to thoroughly wash your hands both before and after the process. Ideally, wear a pair of disposable medical gloves when administering it.

Also, make sure that your feline won’t be able to immediately and directly lick any areas that you’ve applied the medicine to. You may need to rely on an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking.

Side Effects Of Hydrocortisone For Cats

Side effects of administering hydrocortisone to a cat most often appear around the area of the body that’s receiving treatment. The range of side effects include the development of blackheads and flakey areas of skin. In some cases, a thinning of the skin might also be a risk.

In general, if you notice any sort of allergic reaction when administering hydrocortisone to your kitty, make sure to contact your veterinarian immediately.

If your cat accidentally consumes any of the medication, contact your veterinarian straight away.

Has your vet ever prescribed hydrocortisone for your cat? Did it help your kitty feel better? Let us know in the comments section below!

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