Animax Ointment for Dogs and Cats

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.  

What Is Animax Ointment Used for in Dogs and Cats?

Animax is a topical ointment used commonly in the veterinary field and FDA-approved to treat:  

• Ear infections (severe and chronic otitis) in dogs and cats 

• Inflamed bumps between the toes (interdigital cysts) in dogs and cats 

• Anal gland infections in dogs 

This veterinarian-prescribed ointment also helps manage certain skin disorders in dogs and cats. 

How Animax Ointment Works in Dogs and Cats

Animax has four active ingredients:  

• Nystatin: Nystatin is a broad-spectrum antifungal that disrupts and weakens the fungal cell wall. 

• Neomycin: Neomycin is an antibiotic that prevents the growth of susceptible bacteria by blocking the formation of key proteins. Because neomycin is poorly absorbed, it mostly remains on the skin’s surface, making it effective against localized skin bacteria. 

• Thiostrepton: Thiostrepton is an antibiotic, often used in combination with other active ingredients such as neomycin or nystatin, that works on certain organisms that are resistant to other antibiotics. 

• Triamcinolone: Triamcinolone is a synthetic corticosteroid that decreases inflammation and itching. 

How To Apply Animax Ointment to Dogs and Cats

Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian.  

• The frequency of application will depend on the issue, severity, and location.  

• The location you apply the medication to may need to be cleaned and dried before use. 

• If you’re applying Animax to your pet's ear, check with your veterinarian to ensure your pet’s ear drum is not ruptured. That helps prevent the risk of infection spreading to the middle ear. 

• Wear gloves when applying this medication or wash hands after use.  

• Do not allow your pet to lick the medication until after the area dries. 

Missed a Dose? 

Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to apply a dose of Animax. Generally, they may recommend that you apply it when you remember, or if it is almost time for your pet’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal application schedule. 

Do not apply extra or double doses. 

Possible Side Effects of Animax Ointment in Dogs and Cats

Most dogs and cats have no side effects from Animax. 

Topical irritation at the application site is the most common side effect and may include: 

• Redness 

• Irritation 

• Swelling 

• Temporary hearing loss or deafness, which has been noted in a small number of sensitive pets. 

It is possible, though rare, for topical steroids to become absorbed and cause systemic or body-wide side effects. Pets should be closely observed for:  

• Increased appetite 

• Thirst 

• Urination 

• Weight gain 

Speak with your veterinarian about the use of this medication if your pet is or becomes pregnant, as data has shown that corticosteroids administered orally or by injection to animals may result in premature birth or birth defects. 

Human Side Effects 

This medication is not intended for use in humans.  

Again, wear gloves during the administration of this medication or wash hands immediately after application. 

If you accidentally ingest this medication, seek medical attention immediately and call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.  

Monitoring Your Pet 

Your pet should be closely observed for increased appetite, increased thirst or urination, and/or weight gain. Otherwise, no specific monitoring is required for this medication.  

However, your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your pet’s individual needs, other medications they may be on, and/or the issue that initially caused your pet to be placed on this medication. 

When To Call Your Vet 

Call your veterinarian if you see any of the following: 

• Severe side effects (above) 

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment 

• You see or suspect an overdose 

• If you have additional questions or concerns about the use of Animax 

Animax Ointment Overdose Concerns in Dogs and Cats

A typical overdose is not common with this product. However, sensitivity or allergic reactions can occur.  

When using this product for the ears, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet is showing any of the following signs:  

• Hearing loss 

• Deafness 

• Head tilt 

• Circling 

• Decreased balance 

• Other signs of inner ear issues (vestibular disease) 

Avoid ingestion. Ingestion of large quantities of this medication may cause body-wide (systemic) concerns like:  

• Fluid retention 

• Weight gain 

• Excessive thirst and urination 

Prolonged use or overdosage may suppress your pet’s immune system and may result in its body not producing normal steroids on its own, which can cause dangerous side effects if the medication is stopped abruptly.  

If you suspect an overdose, immediately seek emergency veterinary care or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply. 

• Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661  

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control 888-426-4435  

How To Store Animax Ointment for Dogs and Cats

Keep the following storage tips in mind for this medication: 

• Animax should be stored at controlled room temperatures below 86 F (30 C) and avoid excessive heat 104 F (40 C).  

• Always confirm storage temperatures by reading the label. 

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.