Oatmeal for Dogs

Finely ground or colloidal oatmeal is used in many veterinary shampoos, rinses and topical skin products. It can have a soothing, moisturising effect and may provide temporary relief for mildly dry, irritated or itchy skin.

Colloidal oatmeal is made by grinding oat grains into a very fine powder that can disperse through water. This is different from leaving ordinary porridge oats floating in the bath.

How Oatmeal May Help

When finely ground oatmeal is mixed with water, its starches and other components can coat the skin and help retain moisture. Colloidal oatmeal products are commonly used for their soothing, emollient and mild anti-itching effects.

It may be useful for:

• Mildly dry or flaky skin.
• Minor irritation.
• Temporary relief from mild itching.
• Supporting a veterinary treatment plan for some skin conditions.

Oatmeal should not be described as a treatment for bacterial infection, fungal infection, mange, fleas or hot spots. It may make the skin feel more comfortable, but the underlying condition still needs the correct treatment.

When to Contact Your Vet

A dog should be examined if the itching is severe, persistent, recurring or accompanied by:

• Broken, bleeding or weeping skin.
• Redness, heat, swelling or pain.
• Hair loss or bald patches.
• Pustules, scabs or a strong odour.
• Repeated ear problems.
• Excessive paw licking or chewing.
• Visible fleas, flea dirt or suspected mites.
• Lethargy, reduced appetite or another sign of illness.

Before Starting

• Use only plain, unflavoured oats.
• Do not use sweetened or flavoured instant porridge.
• Avoid oats containing dried fruit, chocolate, sweeteners or spices.
• Use lukewarm or cool water rather than hot water.
• Place a non-slip mat in the bath because oatmeal becomes slippery.
• Keep the mixture away from the dog’s eyes, nose, mouth and ear canals.

Test a small area first if your dog has sensitive skin. Stop immediately if the skin becomes redder, itchier or more irritated.

Homemade Oatmeal Soak

A light residue may be left when a plain oatmeal soak is used, but remove any obvious clumps from the coat. Prevent the dog from licking large amounts of the mixture or becoming chilled while drying.

Oatmeal Compress or Paste

A small amount of finely ground oatmeal can be made into a simple paste for a limited area of mildly dry or irritated, unbroken skin.

Do not cover the paste with an airtight dressing or leave the dog unattended. Stop if the dog appears uncomfortable or the skin becomes more inflamed.

Oatmeal Cloth

Another gentle method is to place finely ground oatmeal inside clean muslin, cheesecloth or a clean cotton sock.

1. Tie the cloth securely so the oatmeal cannot escape in lumps.
2. Wet the dog’s coat with lukewarm water.
3. Soak the oatmeal cloth and gently squeeze the milky liquid over the coat.
4. Move the cloth lightly over the skin without scrubbing.
5. Rinse lightly if a noticeable residue remains, then pat dry.

Do not rub vigorously. Friction can make inflamed or itchy skin more uncomfortable.

Commercial Colloidal Oatmeal Products

A properly formulated veterinary oatmeal shampoo, rinse, spray or mousse is usually more convenient and consistent than a homemade mixture.

Choose a product specifically intended for dogs and follow its directions. Some products are rinsed away, while others are designed to remain on the skin and dry naturally.

If the vet has prescribed a medicated shampoo for infection, yeast or another condition, do not replace it with an oatmeal shampoo. Ask whether the products can be alternated or used together.

Why the Homemade Shampoo Recipe Was Removed

The previous version of this article recommended a mixture containing:

• Oatmeal.
• Baking soda.
• Baby or puppy shampoo.
• Glycerine.
• Apple cider vinegar.

This recipe has been removed because combining products can alter their pH, dilution, preservatives and cleansing action. A mixture suitable for one dog may irritate another, particularly when the skin barrier is already damaged.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is sometimes included in homemade deodorising or anti-itch recipes. It can dry or irritate sensitive skin, particularly when used at a high concentration, applied repeatedly or combined with other ingredients.

It should not be rubbed onto broken, inflamed or infected skin. Large amounts should not be left where the dog can lick or swallow them.

A veterinary product formulated for the dog’s particular skin condition is a safer choice when repeated bathing is required.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has not been retained as a flea repellent. It is not a reliable substitute for an effective flea-control product and can sting or irritate damaged skin.

A dog with fleas requires a suitable treatment for the dog and, where necessary, treatment of the home environment. Ask your veterinary practice for advice appropriate to the dog’s weight, age and health.

How Often Can Oatmeal Be Used?

A one-off oatmeal soak may be used for minor dryness or irritation if the dog has no open or infected skin. The appropriate frequency of repeated bathing depends on:

• The cause of the skin problem.
• The product being used.
• The dog’s coat and skin condition.
• Other topical or oral treatments.

Excessive bathing can remove natural oils and make dryness worse. Follow the directions for a commercial product or ask your vet how often the dog should be bathed.

Possible Reactions

Although oatmeal products are generally well tolerated, any topical ingredient can cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

Stop using the product and contact your vet if you notice:

• Increased redness or itching.
• Hives or a new rash.
• Swelling of the face or muzzle.
• Worsening discomfort.
• Vomiting or illness after licking the product.
• Abnormal or difficult breathing.

Facial swelling, collapse or difficulty breathing requires urgent veterinary attention.

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal?

Plain, fully cooked oatmeal is not generally poisonous to dogs and may be offered occasionally in a small amount if the dog tolerates it. It should be made with water and served plain.

Do not add:

• Sugar or artificial sweeteners.
• Chocolate or cocoa.
• Raisins, sultanas or currants.
• Nutmeg.
• Large amounts of milk, cream or butter.
• Flavoured syrup or highly sweetened toppings.

Oatmeal should not replace a significant part of a complete dog food. Dogs with diabetes, digestive disease, a controlled diet or a suspected food reaction should only receive it after veterinary advice.

In Summary

• Finely ground oatmeal may temporarily soothe mildly dry or itchy skin.
• It does not treat fleas, mites, infection or the underlying cause of an allergy.
• Use plain oats and lukewarm water.
• Keep the mixture away from the eyes and ear canals.
• Do not apply it to deep wounds or badly infected skin.
• Stop if the dog’s skin becomes more irritated.
• Seek veterinary advice for persistent, severe or recurring symptoms.