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Is it safe to use Lidocaine or hydrocortisone on my dog's cuts?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 2 years and 1 month old | 55 lbs

I’m putting small amounts of Lidocaine and hydrocortisone on Lucy’s cuts. Is that okay and will it help it heal?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 9th, 2018

It is not a good idea to put hydrocortisone on a cut as it will HINDER healing and help bacteria infect the cut. Please wipe that off again. There is also no need for lidocaine (a local anesthetic). Unless the skin is cut all the way through (as I have described in your first question), you do not have to put anything on the cut, just let it scab over and heal by itself.

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, Lucy does not need either of these medications to heal her wounds as they may actually delay healing. Lidocaine is a numbing agent that does not help with healing. Hydrocortisone is a steroid that may actually increase the chances for an infection as this can suppress the immune system. If you are thinking of applying anything onto his wounds then you could consider consulting with your veterinarian about obtaining other kinds of antibiotic ointments or sprays. Otherwise, the wounds should heal adequately without any need for additional medications. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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