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My cat is over-grooming and losing hair. Is Sudocrem safe to use?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years and 8 months old

My cat has been over grooming himself to the point where the backs of his legs have got abit bald,I've put sudocrem on it is this ok?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 13th, 2016

Sudocrem is for diaper rash and likely contains zinc oxide, which can be toxic to cats. It is not safe to put on cats, and more than likely Winston will lick it off and ingest it. Over grooming in cats is a sign that he is very itchy. This itchiness can be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If he isn't up to date on his flea treatment, he will need a spot on treatment such as Advantage or Revolution. You will need to disinfect the environment as well. If he is up to date on his flea treatment, I recommend taking him into your vet for an exam. Your vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm. Once the cause of the itching is found, your vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. I recommend taking him into the vet today or tomorrow.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sudocrem would provide temporary relief but is not recommended for repeated use as the zinc level is quite high and cats frequently groom and ingest creams applied to the skin. You should get him assessed fo identify and treat the underlying trigger

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