Minoxidil Toxicity in Cats
Minoxidil Toxicity in Cats: A Silent but Deadly Risk
⚠️ Minoxidil, a common medication used for human hair loss, is EXTREMELY TOXIC to cats — even in very small amounts.
🚫 Cats do NOT need to ingest it directly. Simple exposure is enough:
• Licking a human’s hair or skin after application
• Contact with pillows, towels, or hands
• Accidental application by owners trying to “treat” hair loss in pets
❗ Why is Minoxidil so dangerous for cats? Cats lack the ability to properly metabolize Minoxidil, leading to:
• Severe hypotension
• Acute pulmonary edema
• Respiratory distress
• Heart failure
• Death within hours to days
🐾 Clinical signs may include:
• Lethargy and weakness
• Hypothermia
• Facial or paw swelling
• Dyspnea / open-mouth breathing
• Sudden collapse
🩺 For Pet Owners:
• Never use Minoxidil in a household with cats
• Apply hair products away from pets
• Wash hands thoroughly after use
• Keep cats away from treated hair, skin, bedding, and clothing
🩺 For Veterinarians:
• Treat Minoxidil exposure as a medical emergency
• Immediate decontamination (if applicable)
• Aggressive supportive care (oxygen, IV fluids with caution, cardiovascular support)
• Close monitoring for pulmonary edema and hypotension
• Prognosis is often guarded to poor — early intervention is critical