Paraffin (Liquid paraffin, Mineral oil)

Paraffin (Liquid paraffin, Mineral oil) In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Paraffin is a laxative; it softens stools by interfering with intestinal water resorption.
• It is also a lipid-based tear substitute that mimics the lipid portion of the tear film and helps prevent the evaporation of tears.

Uses of Paraffin (Liquid paraffin, Mineral oil)

• Used to manage constipation.
• It is beneficial in the management of keratoconjunctivitis sicca, during general anaesthesia and for eyelid paresis.
• It is a long-acting ocular lubricant and is used when frequent application is difficult.

Dose of Paraffin (Liquid paraffin, Mineral oil) in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Constipation: 1–2 tablespoons per meal as required.
• Ocular: apply to the eye at night or q6–12h prn.

Cats:

• Constipation: adults 25 mm Katalax paste p.o. q12–24h; kittens 10 mm Katalax paste p.o. q12–24h.
• Ocular: apply to the eye at night or q6–12h prn.

Side Effects of Paraffin (Liquid paraffin, Mineral oil) in Dogs and Cats

• As paraffin is tasteless, normal swallowing may not be elicited if syringed orally; thus, inhalation and subsequent lipoid pneumonia are a significant risk.
• Paraffin ointment may blur vision, although this is not often a problem in dogs/cats.

Contraindications of Paraffin (Liquid paraffin, Mineral oil) in Dogs and Cats

• Do not give orally in patients with a reduced gag reflex.

Some Notes:

• Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins may follow prolonged use.