Benadryl and Pets
Used to Treat Allergic Skin Disease Among Other Symptoms
Benadryl is one of many brand names of Diphenhydramine, an antihistimine commonly used
in humans for the treatment of allergy symptoms, hay fever and the common
cold. In pets, diphenhydramine can be used to treat bee and hornet stings and insect bites,
as well as treating allergic skin disease. While Benadryl can be a
good emergency drug to give your pet should the need arise - such as while
out camping or hiking with your pooch - it's important to speak with your
veterinarian beforehand to ensure Max is prescribed a dose based on his
age, weight and health history.
Benadryl Toxicity
It’s essential for pet owners to remember that although diphenhydramine is relatively
safe for most pets, when mixed with other medications it can be lethal.
For example, Benadryl comes in many different formulations — allergy, sinus, headache,
etc. — and can also contain other medications, such as acetami¬nophen (the type of drug
used for humans to relieve fever, headaches, and other minor aches and pains), which can be toxic to a pet.
Well-Intended Pet Owners Unknowingly Poison their Pets
Shockingly, the most dangerous poisons by far are human medications intentionally given to
pets by their owners. VPI received more claims for drug reactions than all other poisoning
claims combined in 2007. Many of these claims involved pets given drugs intended for human
consumption, such as over-the-counter pain relievers. Pet owners often give pets over-the-counter
or prescription drugs for their ailments, unaware that even given in small amounts, many of
these drugs cannot be metabolized by pets fast enough to prevent an overdose.
Use Benadryl Wisely
Dr. Cori Gross, a field veterinarian for VPI, recommends that before pet owners treat their
pets with Benadryl, they should buy the medication and take the package into their veterinarian’s
office to ensure they are using the correct product. In addition to being proactive with
their pet’s health and practicing responsible pet ownership, Gross explains that, “Diphenhydramine
isn’t ideal for every pet, so it’s very important for pet owners to consult with their veterinarian
to make sure they are being properly treated for their ailments.” As always, all medications
should be kept out of the reach of pets. If you suspect your pet is ill or if your pet is showing
signs of poisoning, seek veterinarian help immediately.
This article was provided by Veterinary Pet Insurance. ©2011 Pet Sitters International, Inc.
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