Since 2001, six cases involving minoxidil exposure in cats were reported to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). These included cases of intentional applications to areas on the animals’ bodies that had lost fur, as well as accidental exposures via licking or walking through the solution. Of these cases, four of the cats died, while two fully recovered after prompt and aggressive veterinary treatment. Says Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, APCC medical director and veterinary toxicologist, “Pet owners need to be aware that even minimal amounts of minoxidil can result in a serious or even fatal situation.”

According to APCC data, exposure to minoxidil can result in lethargy, a severe drop in blood pressure, accumulation of fluid in the lungs and damage to the heart muscle, which can result in death from cardiac failure. “Lethargy and a drop in blood pressure typically develop within about 12 hours,” says Gwaltney-Brant, “and the cardiac effects generally occur three to four days following the exposure if treatment is not sought quickly. While the possibility of clinical problems exists for dogs and other animals, cats may be especially sensitive because they lack a specific enzyme necessary for breaking this drug down in their bodies.”

APCC experts offer the following tips to avoid the potential for problems:
- Never apply minoxidil products to your pets.
- Human application of the solution should occur in a room that is not accessible to pets; do not allow pets to lick treated areas.
- Clean up any spills thoroughly and promptly.

If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with a minoxidil-containing preparation, immediately contact your veterinarian or the APCC’s 24-hour emergency hotline at (888) 426-4435. For more pet poison prevention tips, visit APCC online at http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_apcc

Posted on SHARE Yahoo group - Aug. 20, 2005