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Cat hyperactive after Neosporin. Is it dangerous? Should I go to ER?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | neutered | 1 year old | 15 lbs

I was told to put neosporin on my cat and he had a crazy reaction racing around . I now saw that polymyzin can be lethal. should I take him to emergency hospital? I gave him a bath and it was only on skin for a few minutes.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on December 13th, 2016

Sometimes a topical treatment can cause a bad reaction, but in this case it's not likely to be dangerous for Milo, you have washed it already which is the most important thing to do, try to see if he settles down in the next couple hours, if it doesn't get any better then take him to the vet, but I don't think it will be necessary.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    As we know the polymyxin B and bacitracin in polysporin are not appreciably absorbed from the GI tract, so systemic problems (reactions) wouldn't be expected. No need to take him to ER hospital. If he had a crazy skin reaction, then he is likely just sensitive to the ointment and it should be avoided in the future. If he just ran around and was hyperactive, then that technically can't be considered a drug reaction, and is more an exaggerated response to something being applied topically. Check the skin daily and ensure that it is healing well. If the skin isn't, then definitely seek your vet for further care of whatever it was that you were attempting to treat with the Neosporin.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Milo! That must have been scary for you to see him racing around like crazy. Bathing him was the right thing to do. I would not rush him to the emergency vet just yet. I would monitor him for now, and if he continues to run around like crazy over the next couple of hours, then I would take him into the vet.

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