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My dog licks paws after eye medicine. Can he ingest it and get sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | French Bulldog | Male | neutered | 5 years and 4 months old | 26.4 lbs

Hello - my dog has been prescribed Optimmune for both his eyes (to be applied morning & evening). Every time I administer it, he scratches his eyes, then licks his paws. I am worried he might ingest the medicine and get sick.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2021

The amount of cyclosporine that could be ingested this way would be negligible but I would be more concerned he may remove the ointment from the eye before it can take effect. Try applying immediately before feeding or going for a walk, or apply an e collar for 15mins after application

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