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  • 11000 Yonge Street,
  • Richmond Hill,
  • Ontario,
  • L4C 3E4
  • Phone: (905) 737-4506

Chlorhexidine + Ketoconazole - Topical

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What is Chlorhexidine + Ketoconazole?

Chlorhexidine + Ketoconazole (Mal-a-Ket wipes, Mal-a-Ket® shampoo, Ketochlor® shampoo) is a topical antiseptic combination used to manage superficial skin conditions involving bacteria and/or fungal infections/overgrowth in dogs and cats.

How do I give my pet chlorhexidine + ketoconazole?

Chlorhexidine + ketoconazole is used topically on the skin in the form of an impregnated wipe or a shampoo. Care should be taken to avoid the eyes and mucous membranes of your pet.

If using a shampoo formulation, wet your pet’s coat before applying the recommended amount. Massage the shampoo into their coat, ensuring contact with the skin. Leave the shampoo on for the specified time recommended by your veterinarian and then rinse well.

This medication can take a few weeks before full effects are noted, but gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication or my shipment is late?

If you miss a dose, apply it when you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, apply it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never apply two doses at once or apply extra doses.

Are there any potential side effects?

Skin irritation is possible, but unlikely. Let your veterinarian know if you notice any irritation.

This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

This combination should not be used in patients that are allergic or hypersensitive to it. It should be used with caution in patients with severely damaged skin and in pregnant or nursing dogs.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Other medications may interact with this treatment, so be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, herbals, or other topical therapies) that your pet is taking.

Is there any monitoring that needs to be done with this medication?

There is no specific monitoring necessary while your pet is taking this medication. Absence of improvement or any worsening should be reported to your veterinarian right away. Your veterinarian may recommend reassessing your pet at certain intervals to be sure that the medication is working. Do not stop this treatment before your veterinarian recommends.

How do I store chlorhexidine + ketoconazole?

Chlorhexidine + ketoconazole wipes or shampoo should be stored in the original container at room temperature, with the container tightly sealed, away from light.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose, ingestion, or adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.

© Copyright 2023 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Doctorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health.