Is Topical Creams Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Topical creams are severely toxic to cats and dogs — 5-fluorouracil is often fatal to dogs even from a small lick. Call a vet immediately.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
Potentially life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Topical Creams?
Topical creams are severely toxic to cats and dogs — 5-fluorouracil is often fatal to dogs even from a small lick. Call a vet immediately.
Also known as: 5-fluorouracil, 5-fu, efudex, fluoroplex, calcipotriene, dovobet, zinc oxide, diaper rash cream, imiquimod, retinoid cream.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- 5-fluorouracil: severe vomiting, tremors, seizures, and collapse — often fatal even from a small lick
- Calcipotriene: increased thirst and urination, vomiting, weakness (severe hypercalcemia and kidney failure)
- Zinc oxide: vomiting, diarrhea, and pale gums (hemolytic anemia)
- Lethargy and loss of appetite
🐈 In Cats
- Vomiting and drooling
- Tremors and seizures (5-fluorouracil)
- Increased thirst and urination (calcipotriene)
- Weakness and collapse
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline immediately — for 5-fluorouracil, every minute counts and it is often fatal.
- Note the cream's active ingredient and strength, and how much was licked or chewed.
- Rinse the mouth and fur with water to remove residue; bring the tube to the clinic.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Any topical medication was licked or chewed (especially 5-fluorouracil)
- Vomiting, tremors, or seizures
- Increased thirst and urination (calcipotriene)
- Pale gums, weakness, or collapse
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 5-fluorouracil cream so deadly to dogs?
5-fluorouracil (in Efudex, Fluoroplex, and other skin-cancer and wart creams) is extremely toxic to dogs, and licking even a small amount from your skin or the tube can cause severe vomiting, tremors, seizures, and death — sometimes within hours. Keep these creams where pets cannot reach them, and call a vet immediately if any contact occurs.
Is calcipotriene (psoriasis) cream dangerous?
Yes. Calcipotriene and calcipotriol (in Dovobet and other psoriasis creams) cause a dangerous rise in blood calcium, leading to increased thirst and urination, vomiting, weakness, and kidney failure. Even a small amount can be serious — call a vet right away with the strength and amount licked.
What about diaper rash creams with zinc oxide?
Zinc oxide in diaper rash creams can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and in larger amounts hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells, causing pale gums and weakness). While often less deadly than 5-fluorouracil, ingestion still warrants a vet call. Bring the product label so the vet can confirm the strength.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11