July 2025 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Topical minoxidil is dangerous for cats and dogs.
January 2026 in “International Journal of Dermatology” This study analyzed social media posts to assess pet toxicosis from topical minoxidil exposure, finding that many pet owners were unaware of its toxicity risks, particularly for cats, and highlighted a significant need for increased educational efforts to prevent such incidents.
7 citations
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April 2025 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” This scoping review investigates cases of toxic minoxidil exposure in cats and dogs, detailing their clinical presentations, management strategies, and outcomes, without reporting specific results.
5 citations
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August 2021 in “The Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association/Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association” This study observed that accidental topical minoxidil exposure can cause toxicosis in dogs and cats, leading to moderate or major illness, and even death in some cats.
September 2025 in “Journal of Veterinary Cardiology” This study observed that a 13-month-old cat experienced transient myocardial thickening and congestive heart failure episodes likely due to minoxidil intoxication, coinciding with contact with a family member using the drug, suggesting environmental exposure may trigger cardiac events in pets.