ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/salicylic-acid-topical
US brand names:Keratolux, SalAc
Reduces intercellular cohesion of corneocytes by dissolving intercellular cement. Lowers skin pH, promoting desquamation and thinning of the stratum corneum.
Salicylate toxicity risk with extensive application, especially in cats. Drying and irritating at higher concentrations. Avoid on open wounds.
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 | Keratolytic | Bathe 1-2x weekly; 10-min contact time | Moderate | Gordon JG, Kwochka KW: Corneocyte counts for evaluation of antiseborrheic shampoos in dogs. Vet Dermatol 4:57, 1993. doi:10.1111/j.1365-3164.1993.tb00191.x — Verified against Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology, 7th Ed, p.586 (2026-08-01). |
| Cat (Domestic) | Topical | Use low concentration (2%) in cats | Apply to affected area q24h-q48h | Weak | Bond R: Canine and feline acne. Vet Ann 33:230, 1993. / 66. Rosenkrantz WS: The pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of feline acne. Vet Med 86:504, 1991. — Verified against Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology, 7th Ed, p.653 (2026-08-01). |
Upgrade to Pro or Student to unlock the full dose ranges and frequency for every species. The drug's mechanism, warnings, indications, and cited sources are free to read.
View PlansSource citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.