Safety Reminder: Minoxidil Is Highly Toxic to Cats

Protecting our cats often means being aware of hidden household dangers, and minoxidil is one of the most serious. Minoxidil, commonly found in hair growth products, is extremely toxic to cats, even in minimal amounts. What makes this especially dangerous is that exposure does not require a cat to ingest the product directly. Cats can be poisoned by licking minoxidil residue off their human’s skin, hair, pillowcases, or clothing, by brushing against a treated scalp, or through contact with spills, drips, or dried residue on household surfaces.

If you live with cats and use minoxidil, strict precautions are essential. Apply it in a closed room away from pets. Wash your hands thoroughly, allow the product to fully dry, cover the treated areas, and keep cats away from sleeping areas where residue may transfer.

Once exposed, cats can develop life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, low blood pressure, fluid buildup in the lungs, and heart failure. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to minoxidil, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Tragically, many reported cases are fatal.