Mineral Oil / White Petrolatum
Also known as: Laxatone, Laxa-Stat, Vedalax, Cat Lax, Petromalt, Kondremul
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Never force liquid mineral oil into your pet's mouth using a syringe. If accidentally inhaled into the lungs, it causes a severe and potentially fatal condition called **lipid pneumonitis**. * For cats with hairballs, use commercially prepared, flavored gels (like Laxatone) exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Place a small amount on their paw or nose to let them lick it off naturally. * Do not use these products long-term without veterinary supervision, as they can block the absorption of essential vitamins (Vitamins A, D, E, and K). * You may notice some oily discharge from your pet's rectum; this is normal but can soil furniture or carpets.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Laxative
- Laxative
- Laxative
- Laxative
- Laxative
- Laxative
- Laxative (Adults)
- Laxative (Calves)
- Adjunctive treatment of metaldehyde poisoning
- Adjunctive treatment of nitrate poisoning
- Large colon impactions
- Sand colic
- Laxative (Adults)
- Laxative (Foals)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Lipid pneumonitis (severe, if aspirated)
- Granulomatous reactions in liver, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes (if absorbed)
- Anal oil leakage
- Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use
Cautions & contraindications
- Patients with an increased risk of vomiting or regurgitation
- Dysphagia or swallowing difficulties
- Esophageal or gastric retention
- Hiatal hernia
- Debilitated or pregnant patients (based on human guidelines)
- Human pediatric patients under 6 years old
- Extreme caution must be used to avoid aspiration, which can cause severe, irreversible lipid pneumonitis. Do not administer liquid mineral oil orally via syringe to struggling small animals; rectal administration is preferred if used as a laxative in these species. When 'tubing' large animals, absolutely ascertain that the tube is in the stomach and administer at a reasonable rate.
Drug interactions
- Docusate (DSS): Theoretically enhances the absorption of mineral oil, which could lead to systemic granulomatous reactions. Avoid concurrent use, though clinical significance in large animals appears low.
- Vitamins A, D, E, K: Chronic administration of mineral oil may decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Administer between meals to minimize this effect.
Frequently asked questions
What is Mineral Oil / White Petrolatum used for in pets?
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Never force liquid mineral oil into your pet's mouth using a syringe. If accidentally inhaled into the lungs, it causes a severe and potentially fatal condition called **lipid pneumonitis**. * For cats with hairballs, use commercially prepared, flavored gels (like Laxatone) exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Place a small amount on their paw or nose to let them lick it off naturally. * Do not use these products long-term without veterinary supervision, as they can block the absorption of essential vitamins (Vitamins A, D, E, and K). * You may notice some oily discharge from your pet's rectum; this is normal but can soil furniture or carpets.
Is Mineral Oil / White Petrolatum safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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