One of the popular medications for treating nasal congestion and colds in humans is Vicks Vaposteam. It has been around for a long time and is still an essential household item. And some pet parents might wonder if it’s safe to use it on their dogs?
Vicks Vaposteam is designed for human use. It contains chemical toxins, including eucalyptus, camphor, and menthol oil, that are not safe for your dogs. These components might be safe for human use but we can’t say the same for dogs.
Some pet owners use Vicks to prevent their dog from digging or chewing, while others use it for lung congestion. However, most vets are against using Vicks Vaposteam on cats and dogs.
Let’s take a look into why experts and veterinarians are against the usage of this menthol vaporizer on your pets.
Why Is Vicks Vaposteam Harmful to Dogs?
The main ingredient in Vick Vaposteam is camphor oil. It’s a common component used in lotions, creams, and ointments. This ingredient is safe for human use as it relieves the flu and helps reduce lung congestion. However, it’s the opposite for dogs.
The humidifier produces steam releasing a chemical toxin making it difficult for the dog to breathe. It has a high absorption rate and is likely to enter your dog’s bloodstream. And if this happens, it will have various health implications for your dog.
Moreover, Vicks Vaposteam is meant for human use and is manufactured accordingly. It’s an effective medication for humans, but for our furry friends, it’s not safe and will negatively impact their health.
Can Camphor Oil Poison My Dog?
Camphor oil is an essential ingredient used in various medications. It’s an effective component that is quite beneficial when used in moderation. However, it’s not suitable for pets because of its harmful toxins.
You may see some veterinary ointment with this component for muscle pain, which is also used as a flea repellant. However, it needs proper care and should have knowledge on how to use it.
It’s been reported that improper use of camphor can cause vomiting or skin irritation. Various studies have also revealed that there is a limited number of camphor poisoning in dogs.
But if your dog consumes an excessive amount, it will develop symptoms like respiratory problems and seizures. If one of these happens, your furry friend will likely have a strong or mild sickness. And that’s a cue for you to immediately take the dog to a vet.
Camphor poisoning happens to your pet when it accidentally ingests ointments with this ingredient. Some of the products containing camphor oil are:
- Carmex
- Campho-Phenique
- Vicks Vaposteam
- Tiger Balm
Here are the typical reactions of dogs when it’s exposed to Vick Vapsteam:
- When your dog’s skin turns red.
- If your dog’s eye is tearing up when exposed to Vicks Vaposteam.
- When your dog itches more than it should.
- Constant licking by your dog on its skin.
Note that each case is serious and should be taken to a vet right away if any of these happens. Additionally, we recommend not to use Vicks Vaposteam near your dog. Also, avoid placing the humidifier where your furry friend can reach.
Do Dogs Love to Smell Vicks Vaposteam?
Dogs, especially puppies, are more adventurous than mature ones. They love to sniff around and explore new things, including new smells.
So, they would pretty much take a sniff of Vicks Vaposteam if it’s around them. However, some dogs may find the smell strong and can cause irritation. If your dog has a dry, sensitive eye, it will give them a burning sensation, thus tearing the eye.
Puppies love to chew anything available to them. If you are using Vicks Vaposteam, ensure that it’s kept somewhere safe and not reachable by your furry friend.
Additionally, it’s advisable not to use the vaporizer in front of them as puppies are more suspectable of this danger. They tend to get sick at this stage as their health is quite sensitive around this phase. Pet owners should be wary of what they are using, especially when it comes to camphor-based products.
What Should I Do If My Dog Has a Reaction After Smelling Vicks Vaposteam?
If your pet has excessively inhaled or chewed Vicks container, take it to the veterinarian immediately. This camphor-based vaporizer has a rapid absorption that may cause serious health issues if not taken care of at the right time.
The vet will conduct a physical examination and other medical procedures. Based on the severity of your dog’s condition, they will carry forward with the treatment.
Currently, there is no proper treatment for camphor poisoning. The vet removes the substance from your dog’s body to eliminate chemical toxins. For mild cases, a check-up is required probably for the gastrointestinal issue that often causes vomiting.
Supportive or intense care is given if the case is severe. Therefore, if you see your dog has skin irritation or is constantly licking, consult a vet right away. The early measure will prevent the case from going severe.
Every dog has a different reaction to this vaporizer. Some may have mild symptoms, while some dogs suffer severely, including seizures and breathing difficulty. Whether it’s a mild or strong case, don’t take the matter into your hands but consult a vet instead. They are the experts in this field and know what to do in these situations.
Are Vicks Humidifiers Safe for Dogs?
When it comes to Vicks humidifiers, there are a few things to keep in mind.
While the vapor from a Vicks humidifier is generally considered safe for dogs to inhale, it’s important to make sure that the humidifier is placed in a safe location where your dog can’t knock it over or accidentally come into contact with the hot water. Additionally, some Vicks products may contain ingredients like camphor and eucalyptus oil, which can be toxic to dogs if ingested.
So, if you’re using a Vicks humidifier, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog and make sure that they don’t have access to the product.
As always, if you have any concerns or questions about the safety of a particular product, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.
Conclusion on Is Vicks Vaposteam Safe for Dogs
In conclusion, don’t underestimate Vicks Vaposteam and the danger it can have on your dog. Ensure that you don’t use it when your furry friend is around. Also, avoid using other camphor products on your pets, as it’s a harmful chemical toxin. It’s safe for human use but not suitable for your dog.
And if you have puppies, put the vaporizer in a place where it’s unreachable to them. They are pretty adventurous at this stage and love to explore. So, be careful as they are sensitive at this age and prone to getting sick quickly.
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