Disrupts bacterial cell membranes by binding to negatively charged cell wall components, causing cell lysis; effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and some fungi
At a glance
Class
Antiseptic / Disinfectant (Biguanide)
Storage
Store at room temperature
Dosing
Skin infections / Wound lavage / Shampoo therapy
Frequency
BID to TID (wound) or 2–3× weekly (shampoo)
Duration: Until infection resolves
Skin infections / Wound lavage
Duration: Until infection resolves
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Contact with eyes, ears (ototoxic), or CNS tissue
Can cause corneal damage and ototoxicity
Adverse effects
Common
Mild skin irritation
Dryness with repeated use
Serious
Ototoxicity (if enters middle ear)
Corneal ulceration (if contacts eye)
Skin conditionAvoid contact with eyes and ears
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
India
Hexidine
ICPA Health Products
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Chlorhexidine?
Chlorhexidine is a antiseptic / disinfectant (biguanide) used in pets. Disrupts bacterial cell membranes by binding to negatively charged cell wall components, causing cell lysis; effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and some fungi
›What is Chlorhexidine used for in pets?
Chlorhexidine is used in veterinary medicine for: Skin infections / Wound lavage / Shampoo therapy; Skin infections / Wound lavage.
›What is the Chlorhexidine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Chlorhexidine is typically dosed as follows — Skin infections / Wound lavage / Shampoo therapy: 0.05 % Topical BID to TID (wound) or 2–3× weekly (shampoo). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Chlorhexidine dose for cats?
For cats, Chlorhexidine is typically dosed as follows — Skin infections / Wound lavage: 0.05 % Topical BID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Chlorhexidine?
Common: Mild skin irritation, Dryness with repeated use. Serious (call your vet immediately): Ototoxicity (if enters middle ear), Corneal ulceration (if contacts eye).
›Does Chlorhexidine need a prescription?
Chlorhexidine is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
›When should Chlorhexidine not be used?
Do not use Chlorhexidine if: Contact with eyes, ears (ototoxic), or CNS tissue.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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