Minoxidil is Very Harmful to Cats

Keep Minoxidil Away from Cats

Minoxidil is very harmful to cats. Cats seem to lack enzymes (ie enzymes affecting glucuronidation) to process and break down minoxidil. Exposure can lead to lethargy, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting and trouble breathing. These side effects can occur in hours or days after exposure. Most cats exposed to minoxidil need hospitalization. It’s serious and needs to be taken seriously. Death of the pet can occur. 

We’ve covered the topic many times before but it’s worth covering every few years to make sure the word gets out!

You can Click on the Link below to Read Articles from Prior Years

How do Cats get Exposed?

Cats can be exposed by licking owners skin or licking pillowcases or by being splashed by small amounts. Even low doses of minoxidil exposure can make a cat sick.

Minoxidil is also toxic to dogs but reports of toxicosis in dogs are far fewer than those for cats.

Keep minoxidil away from cats (and dogs)!

References

Johnson T et al. Successful management of minoxidil 5 % toxicosis in 2 cats from the same household. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2023 May

Tater KC et al. Topical Minoxidil Exposures and Toxicoses in Dogs and Cats: 211 Cases (2001-2019). J Am Animal Hosp Assoc 2021; 57; 225-231.