Why You Shouldn’t Use Hydrogen Peroxide on Your Pet

Hydrogen peroxide is a common household product that many pet owners have on hand, thinking it can be a quick solution for cleaning wounds or even helping their pet vomit in case of poisoning. However, while hydrogen peroxide has its uses, it’s important to understand why you should avoid using it on your pet's wounds or to induce vomiting. Here’s why:

Hydrogen Peroxide Can Harm Your Pet's Wounds

Hydrogen peroxide is often used for cleaning cuts and scrapes on humans, but it’s not the best choice for your pet’s wounds. Here's why:

• Tissue Damage: Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer, which means it can destroy healthy tissue along with bacteria. When applied to an open wound, it doesn’t just kill bacteria—it also damages the healthy cells that are trying to heal the wound. This can slow down the healing process and potentially lead to scarring.
• Pain and Irritation: When hydrogen peroxide bubbles, it creates a foamy reaction that can be very painful for your pet. It might cause irritation and discomfort, especially if the wound is deep or sensitive. Your pet could end up in more pain, making them less cooperative with treatment.
• Disruption of Natural Healing: Pets have a natural healing process that includes the formation of a scab and the promotion of healthy tissue growth. Hydrogen peroxide can disrupt this process and delay healing.

What Should You Use Instead?

For cleaning your pet's wound, it’s best to use a mild saline solution or a pet-safe antiseptic that’s designed for the job. However, the care doesn’t end there. It's important to seek veterinary attention as the wound may be more involved than it appears. Always consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations based on the type of wound your pet has.

Hydrogen Peroxide Is Not Safe for Inducing Vomiting

One of the most dangerous uses of hydrogen peroxide that pet owners might try is to induce vomiting after their pet ingests something toxic. While it’s true that hydrogen peroxide can sometimes make a pet vomit, using it for this purpose is risky and potentially harmful.

• Risks of Aspiration: Vomiting can be dangerous for your pet because it can lead to aspiration (where vomit enters the lungs), which can cause serious respiratory issues or even aspiration pneumonia. In some cases, vomiting can cause more harm than good, especially if the toxin your pet ingested is caustic or sharp (like certain chemicals or objects).
• Irritation and Inflammation: Hydrogen peroxide is an irritant to the digestive tract. When ingested, it can cause inflammation and irritation in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. This can lead to discomfort, painful inflammation (esophagitis), and even long-term damage to the esophagus and other parts of the digestive system.
• Potential for Overdose: The correct amount of hydrogen peroxide needed to induce vomiting can vary by pet size and breed. If you give too much, you risk causing additional harm, such as excessive vomiting, dehydration, or even injury to the digestive tract.
• Not Always Effective: Hydrogen peroxide is not always effective in making pets vomit. Some pets may not vomit at all, and in those cases, the time spent trying to induce vomiting could delay more effective treatments like administering activated charcoal.

What Should You Do if Your Pet Ingests Something Toxic?

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, it’s critical to act fast. The first thing you should do is call your veterinarian, an emergency hospital like DoveLewis, or an emergency animal poison control hotline. They will provide you with guidance on the best course of action. In many cases, your vet will recommend bringing your pet in for professional care rather than attempting to induce vomiting at home.

When Should You Call a Vet?

If your pet has a wound or ingested something harmful, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before attempting any treatment on your own. A vet will have the proper tools, knowledge, and experience to safely address your pet's needs. Whether it’s cleaning a wound, providing pain relief, or dealing with ingestion of a toxic substance, they can recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan.

Avoid Hydrogen Peroxide for Your Pet’s Wounds and Vomiting

Hydrogen peroxide may seem like a convenient go-to for pet emergencies, but it can cause more harm than good. For wound care, choose a safer option like saline solution or a pet-specific antiseptic. And when it comes to inducing vomiting, always seek veterinary guidance rather than trying home remedies like hydrogen peroxide. By prioritizing your pet’s safety and seeking professional care when needed, you’ll be helping your pet recover faster and more safely.