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Please note: The advice shared is only intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. We always recommend speaking to your veterinarian before adding anything to your pet’s diet.
You might be familiar with Aquaphor as a healing balm. It’s probably a part of your skincare routine, but did you know it could also benefit your cat?
What is Aquaphor?
Aquaphor is an over-the-counter skin ointment that has multiple purposes. It can soothe dry skin, chapped lips, minor cuts and burns, and more. It primarily consists of petroleum jelly along with mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, and bisabolol.
These ingredients are safe to be used topically by humans as well as felines above the age of one.
How do I use Aquaphor on my cat?
Aquaphor is mainly given to cats for three reasons, to treat dry skin patches, constipation, and blockage caused by hairballs.
- To Treat Dry Skin: This is a great product to treat crusty noses, dry skin, scaly elbows, and peeling paw pads. Using clean hands, apply a little bit on the affected area and let the medicine do its magic. Aquaphor can also be used to treat the skin around the eyes that may be irritated due to an overactive facial muscle. However, when applying the product near the area, one must be extremely cautious to ensure that it does not go inside the eyes, as this could lead to irritation and possibly blindness.
- Blocked Gut: Hairballs can easily get stuck in the gut, causing a blockage. To relieve the cat from the discomfort caused by a blocked gut, you can feed it Aquaphor. The petroleum jelly helps to lubricate their intestines and allows them to pass the hairball easily.
- Constipation: While it is normal for some cats to have slower bowel movements, not defecating for 48 to 72 hours could be a cause of concern. Aquaphor is also safe for cats who suffer from constipation regularly, as it makes defecation less strenuous.
Cats can consume this product orally. Just put a dash of the product on your kitty’s paw and let it lick off the ointment. You can also add a dab to your cat’s food, but mix it well.
What to keep in mind when using Aquaphor?
Feeding your cat Aquaphor too much or too often can cause diarrhea and dehydration. If your feline seems dehydrated, offer your cat water and speak to a veterinarian. Leaving diarrhea untreated could be life-threatening.
If you are unable to identify the signs of serious constipation in your feline, watch out for the below:
- Low appetite
- Bloody stool
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
Contact a veterinarian immediately if your cat displays any of the above signs.
While Aquaphor is safe and can provide instant relief from gastrointestinal issues, it is not an alternative to a healthy diet. Your cat will need moisture-rich, high-fiber food, and fresh, clean water.
Other ways to prevent skin issues, blockage due to a hairball, and constipation are:
- Hydration: Plenty of water and moisture-rich food goes a long way in maintaining your cat’s skin and gut health.
- Grooming Reguarly: Frequent bathing and brushing your feline’s coat can help curtail the issue of hairballs.
- Fiber-rich diet: Feeding your cat a diet high in fiber helps with regular bowel movements. You can also add these natural sources of fiber to your cat’s food:
- Pumpkin
- Cooked carrots
- Green beans
- Broccoli
- Spinach or lettuce (in moderation)
Other remedies for chronic constipation are supplements, probiotics, and laxatives.
Note: Always consult your vet before introducing anything new to your cat’s diet.
