; Skip to main content

Cat & Dog - Liquid Paraffin

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Liquid paraffin is a laxative used for the treatment of constipation. Paraffin in the form of a paste is used for control of 'fur balls/hair balls' in cats. Longhaired cats should be groomed regularly.

Eye preparations that contain liquid paraffin are used as a tear substitute in keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye syndrome).

How do I give this medication?

  • Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
  • Your veterinary surgeon will show you how to administer the medication.
  • Measure the dose with reasonable care.
  • Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
  • DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give more often than directed.
  • Prolonged use may reduce absorption of nutrients and vitamins from your pet's intestine. Give the medication at least 2 hours before or after a meal. Do not give this medicine for longer than directed.
  • Try not to miss giving any doses.
  • Wash your hands after handling the medication.
  • In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or label to the physician.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential side effects

  • Potential side effects such as diarrhoea may occur; contact your veterinary surgeon.
  • Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

  • Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
  • Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
  • Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. Less fat-soluble vitamins may be absorbed from the gut when liquid paraffin is given for a long period.
  • Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Used and/or modified with permission under license. ©Lifelearn, The Penguin House, Castle Riggs, Dunfermline FY11 8SG