Is minoxidil okay to use around pets?

Unfortunately, some research suggests that topical minoxidil may be toxic to household pets, including cats and dogs. In rare cases, topical minoxidil has been associated with serious illness and death in cats.

If you are a pet owner, you can still use topical minoxidil with appropriate precautions:

• Never apply minoxidil on your pet
• Do not allow your pet to interact with minoxidil foam or solution bottles
• After applying minoxidil, wash your hands thoroughly and prevent your pet from interacting with surfaces that may have come in contact with minoxidil (such as your scalp, hair, hats, or pillowcases)

If you are worried your pet may have accidentally ingested or been exposed to minoxidil, you should call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435.