Concern Regarding Cat's Prescription and Personal Allergy
I’m a 35-year-old woman with an average build, and I do not consume alcohol, tobacco, or other substances. Thankfully, I don't have any significant medical issues except for a known allergy to erythromycin, which caused my throat to close up when I was a child, according to my mother. Recently, my cat was prescribed erythromycin ointment to treat an eye infection. I'm now wondering if it's safe for me to use this ointment on my pet. Is there any risk if I handle her while she has the medication on, or if she sleeps next to me? Should I be concerned about the possibility of experiencing anaphylaxis? Since the vet’s office is closed, I didn't realize the medication was erythromycin until just now. Thank you for your guidance!
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 12:30:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your allergy to erythromycin while caring for your cat. The good news is that erythromycin is usually safe for pets, and handling the ointment presents low risks for you, especially since it’s not absorbed significantly through the skin or when your cat licks it off themselves. However, given your history of a severe allergy, it's wise to approach this with caution.
Explanation
Erythromycin is an antibiotic that can be prescribed for various infections, and while it can cause allergic reactions, direct contact with the ointment is generally unlikely to trigger anaphylaxis unless there’s significant skin exposure or ingestion. That said, you should still be mindful.
Next Steps
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Limit Direct Contact: When you apply the ointment, consider wearing disposable gloves to minimize any skin contact with the medication. After application, wash your hands thoroughly.
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Avoid Skin-to-Skin Contact: While your cat has the ointment on, it might be best to avoid close cuddling or direct skin contact until the ointment is absorbed (typically recommended at least a few hours).
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Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any signs of allergic reactions, both in yourself and your cat. If you notice any unusual itching, rash, or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately.
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Keep Your Cat's Space Clean: If possible, prevent your cat from sleeping on your bed or in close proximity for a little while, just to minimize any risk of you coming into contact with the medication.
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Reassess if Symptoms Develop: If you start to notice any symptoms of an allergic reaction after handling the ointment or being around your cat, seek medical advice promptly.
In the meantime, you can contact your veterinarian for any further questions about your cat’s treatment and safety measures to take. Let me know if you have any other questions or need more details!
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