Minoxidil Toxicosis in Cats and Dogs: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Social Media Reports and Public Awareness

This study analyzed social media reports to assess the awareness and impact of minoxidil toxicosis in pets, particularly cats and dogs. It identified 33 cases of pet exposure to topical minoxidil, with 27 involving cats and 5 involving dogs. Most exposures were due to oral ingestion, often from pets licking treated human hair or skin. Symptoms included decreased appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, and wheezing, with a 33.3% fatality rate in cats. The study highlights a lack of public awareness about the risks of minoxidil to pets and suggests that clinicians should educate patients on safe use to prevent accidental exposure. The study also recommends adding warning labels to minoxidil products and considering oral formulations to reduce risks. Limitations include potential underreporting and the exclusion of non-English content.