ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/ketoconazole-topical
US brand names:Nizoral Topical
Inhibits fungal lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase, disrupting ergosterol biosynthesis and fungal membrane integrity. Also has anti-inflammatory and antiseborrheic properties.
Effective for Malassezia dermatitis as shampoo. Leave on 10 minutes for contact time. May cause local irritation. Minimal systemic absorption from topical use.
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugs
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 2 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | Topical | Leave-on time critical for efficacy | Bathe 2x weekly with shampoo; 10-min contact time | Strong | Verified against Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology, 7th Ed, p.238 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | Topical | Cats generally tolerate bathing poorly | Bathe 1-2x weekly; 10-min contact time | Moderate | Verified against Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology, 7th Ed, p.238 (2026-08-01). |
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View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.