Paraffin
Also known as: Katalax, Lacri-Lube, Liquid paraffin oral emulsion, Simple Eye Ointment
Do not force your pet to swallow liquid paraffin from a syringe, as it can easily go down the wrong way and cause severe, life-threatening lung damage. If using for hairballs or constipation, let your pet lick it voluntarily or mix it with food. If using eye ointment, apply as directed and do not let the tube tip touch the eye. Oral use may cause oily leakage from the rectum.
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
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Aspiration pneumonia (if inhaled during oral administration)
- Anal seepage / oily perianal soiling
- Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (with chronic oral use)
- Granulomatous reactions (if absorbed into intestinal mucosa)
Cautions & contraindications
- Dysphagia or impaired gag reflex
- Vomiting patients
- Concurrent use with docusate sodium
- Prolonged daily use (due to vitamin malabsorption)
- > **WARNING:** Never force-feed liquid paraffin via syringe. The lack of taste prevents the gag reflex, leading to silent aspiration and severe, often fatal, lipoid pneumonia. Always allow the animal to lick it voluntarily or mix it with food.
Drug interactions
- Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): Decreased intestinal absorption of vitamins with chronic paraffin use
- Docusate sodium: May increase the systemic absorption of mineral oil, leading to granuloma formation
Frequently asked questions
What is Paraffin used for in pets?
Do not force your pet to swallow liquid paraffin from a syringe, as it can easily go down the wrong way and cause severe, life-threatening lung damage. If using for hairballs or constipation, let your pet lick it voluntarily or mix it with food. If using eye ointment, apply as directed and do not let the tube tip touch the eye. Oral use may cause oily leakage from the rectum.
Is Paraffin 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.
Worried about your pet?
Peqaboo’s AI helps you track symptoms, understand lab reports, and know when to see a vet.
Get the Peqaboo app