Female hands holding a jar of cream isolated on white Dog Health 03.02.2025

Traction ointment for dogs: What is important to know?

Drawing ointment is a proven remedy for treating abscesses, inflammations and foreign bodies under the skin, which naturally helps to gently draw out pus and impurities and support the healing process.

Drawing ointments are known everywhere

Drawing ointments have long been used to treat abscesses and inflammatory skin conditions, and are particularly popular for treating small accumulations of pus under the skin. Drawing ointments are available in different concentrations (10 %, 20 %, 50 %) and are used depending on the severity and depth of the skin inflammation . They are suitable for superficial inflammations as well as for deeper abscesses and boils. But does this method work just as well for dogs?

How does an ointment work?

Most traction ointments (including Ursolan traction ointment, which we will discuss again later) contain the active ingredient ammonium bituminosulfonate (ABS), which is obtained from oil shale. This active ingredient gives the ointment its characteristic black color and smell.

Ammonium bituminosulfonate works in traction ointments by helping to draw pus and inflammation to the surface. It has an anti-inflammatory and disinfectant effect, which fights bacteria and soothes the skin. It also promotes blood circulation, which supports the healing process and helps abscesses to mature more quickly so that they can drain more easily. This also relieves itching and promotes the absorption of other medications through the skin. This combination makes traction ointments an effective means of treating skin problems.

Example: Ursolan traction ointment

In fact, there is a specific pulling ointment that is offered especially for animals: Ursolan traction ointment is a proven remedy for treating abscesses and inflammations in various animal species. It is used on horses, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs to treat abscesses caused by furunculosis, phlegmon and panaritium.

We would now like to explain a few basic things about this traction ointment, which in most cases applies to all traction ointments. However, it is always important to seek advice from a vet and to read the package leaflet.

What is important to pay attention to?

Before using Ursolan pulling ointment, it is important to read the contraindications that must be observed: Ursolan pulling ointment must not be used on chronic, extensive skin changes. Caution should also be exercised if you are allergic to ammonium bituminosulfonate, as this can lead to reactions. Furthermore, the ointment should not be applied to mucous membranes.

There are no special instructions for the use of Ursolan ointment during pregnancy, lactation or the laying period. With regard to interactions with other medicinal products, it should be noted that the traction ointment can improve the absorption of other medicinal products through the skin.

Tierärztin in medizinischen Handschuhen schmiert die Hundewunden mit Salbe ein. Mops-Hund mit roten, entzündeten Wunden im Gesicht. Hundeallergie, Dermatitis, eine Pilzinfektion auf der Gesichtshaut eines Hundes Depositphotos / Kallihora

How is Ursolan pulling ointment applied?

It is applied externally to the skin. The ointment is applied once a day until the symptoms improve. The surrounding skin should be cleaned and disinfected. If necessary, a bandage can be applied to support the effect and keep the ointment in place.

What is important for you and your dog?

There are nospecial warnings for the individual target animal species - including dogs. Nevertheless, users should take care to avoid direct contact with their own skin and mucous membranes. It is also advisable to wear protective gloves during application.

Side effects of Ursolan pulling ointment

As far as side effects are concerned, contact allergies, painful redness or severe skin irritation may occur in rare cases. If such side effects occur, this should be reported to the pharmaceutical company, for example.

How safe is the Ursolan pulling ointment?

Studies have shown that it can be used safely without being toxic or affecting growth. The active ingredient has been thoroughly tested and shows no harmful effects on the genetic material or the development of embryos.

Conclusion on the use of traction ointment in dogs

The use of traction ointment in dogs can be a helpful aid in the healing process for abscesses and inflammations. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, it can alleviate minor skin problems. However, whenever your dog has an injury or skin condition, it is always advisable to consult a vet first to ensure the best treatment and avoid complications.

Sources and relevant links

Nolff M (2019). Modernes Wundmanagement bei Hund und Katze. 1. Auflage. Thieme.

Emmerich I, Hein J (2018). Dosierungsvorschläge für Arzneimittel bei Kleinnagern, Kaninchen und Frettchen und Igeln. 2., aktualisierte und erweiterte Auflage. Thieme.

Banner: Depositphotos / belchonock
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