If you’ve noticed your dog dragging their bottom along the floor or constantly itching it, it’s time to lend them a helping hand. One of the most effective ways to soothe a dog’s sore bottom is by applying a cream or ointment.
Now, choosing the right cream for your dog’s sore bum is crucial, as some creams may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs. So, which ointment should you use to bring relief to your furry friend?
Note: Before applying any cream to your dog’s sore bum, it’s important to consult your vet. Each dog is unique and may react differently to various creams.
Cream Choices for Soothing a Dog’s Sore Bottom
Discovering that your dog has a sore bottom is definitely not the highlight of being a dog parent. Seeing them uncomfortably scoot around and itch incessantly can be heart-wrenching. Naturally, you’ll want to try and help them find relief.
Before rushing out to buy a cream, please go through my recommendations below, as there are instances where vet treatment may be necessary, and creams alone won’t suffice.
Here are five commonly recommended creams for soothing a dog’s itchy bottom:
1. Castor Oil Cream
Castor oil cream contains ribonucleic acid, which provides pain relief and has anti-inflammatory properties. This cream is known to significantly reduce the discomfort on your dog’s sore bum and heal any chapped skin in the area.
Additionally, castor oil cream also acts as an excellent repellent for fleas. If your dog’s bottom is plagued by these annoying parasites, applying castor cream will keep them at bay. Just make sure to consult your vet for the best castor oil cream to purchase.
2. Sudocrem
Sudocrem, although formulated for humans, can be used in very small amounts to alleviate itchiness in dogs’ bottoms. This highly-rated anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial cream effectively treats skin problems like eczema, diaper rash, acne, sunburns, insect bites, and cuts.
However, caution must be exercised as Sudocrem contains Zinc oxide, which can be toxic to dogs. Therefore, consulting your vet is crucial, as I’ll explain further down the page. Also, consider using a cone to prevent your dog from itching the area immediately after applying Sudocrem.
3. Neosporin Ointment
Just like the other creams on this list, Neosporin can make dogs ill if ingested, so it should only be used topically. Neosporin creates a physical barrier between irritants and the dog’s bum while eliminating bacteria that may trigger inflammation.
Before applying Neosporin to your dog’s sensitive bottom, it is recommended to perform a patch test. Apply a tiny amount of Neosporin to another part of your dog’s skin and observe for any allergic reactions. If there are no side effects, you can safely use a small amount on their sore bottom, with your vet’s approval.
4. Hydrocortisone Cream
Although not officially approved by vets for soothing itchy dog bottoms, hydrocortisone cream is often recommended in small amounts. This cream provides quick relief from irritation and reduces swelling when applied to the affected area.
Massaging a small amount of hydrocortisone cream onto your dog’s sore bottom can offer them some relief. However, if the soreness persists after a few days, it’s crucial to discontinue use and consult your vet. Prolonged use of hydrocortisone cream is not suitable for dogs.
5. Zinc Oxide Cream (Exercise Caution)
Zinc oxide is generally considered a good choice for soothing a dog’s sore bottom. It is frequently included in topical medications due to its remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. However, it should be used sparingly and only if you are confident that your dog cannot access and ingest it.
A zinc oxide cream significantly reduces swelling, redness, and pain in your dog’s bum. It creates a protective barrier on their sensitive anal skin, preventing bacteria, irritants, and moisture from causing further itchiness. Your vet can recommend an effective cream with the appropriate zinc oxide concentration, so consulting them before purchasing an over-the-counter cream is advisable.
Remember to clean your dog’s sore bottom with a soft washcloth and warm water before applying the cream. To prevent your dog from immediately licking off the cream, consider applying it just before their feeding time. This will allow enough time for the cream to be absorbed as your dog eats. Alternatively, taking them for a short walk or using an Elizabethan collar or cone briefly after application can also help.
Consult Your Vet for Your Dog’s Sore Bottom
While some cases of sore bottoms may only require at-home topical cream treatment, others may be more severe and need veterinarian care. It’s important to closely observe your dog’s symptoms to determine the severity of their soreness.
If your dog isn’t excessively scooting, doesn’t have wounds, and the area isn’t unusually hard, you can try applying a vet-recommended cream and monitor for improvement. Follow your vet’s instructions regarding the amount and frequency of cream use.
However, if the symptoms are more severe, relying solely on topical cream won’t be sufficient. Take your dog to the vet for further diagnosis and treatment.
Many factors can contribute to a dog’s sore bottom, including swollen anal glands, parasites, constipation or diarrhea, allergic reactions, anal skin cuts, yeast or bacterial infections, sitting on rough surfaces, or dried poop on the butt surface.
The level of pain experienced by a dog with a sore bum varies depending on the underlying cause. While your dog can’t verbally communicate their discomfort, their symptoms can give you valuable insights into the severity of the soreness.
If your dog exhibits excessive scooting, avoids sitting, has a hardened anal area, swollen or red anal area, over-grooms their backside, emits a foul smell, or has blood in their poop, professional help should be sought.
Frequently Asked Questions about Your Dog’s Sore Bum
Can I use coconut oil on my dog’s sore bum?
Absolutely! Coconut oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help ease irritation on your dog’s bottom. However, it’s essential to consult your vet before using it.
Is it safe to apply Vaseline on my dog’s butt?
The question of whether Vaseline is safe for a dog’s sore bum often raises some debate. Some believe it’s effective in soothing butt discomfort, while others argue that petroleum jelly can trap bacteria and worsen soreness. To put doubts to rest, it’s best to consult your vet before using Vaseline.
Can I use hemorrhoid cream on my dog?
Only use an anti-hemorrhoid cream upon your vet’s recommendation. Treating your dog’s hemorrhoid issue without professional help isn’t advisable, as there may be a serious underlying cause for the hemorrhoids.
Conclusion
Sore bottoms are a common issue among dogs. If your beloved four-legged companion is experiencing this discomfort, you’re probably wondering which creams can bring them relief.
While I’ve recommended some creams for your dog’s sore bottom, always consult a vet before applying any cream and use them sparingly.
