Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
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J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. · Jan 1988
Case ReportsMethemoglobinemia associated with dermal application of benzocaine cream in a cat.
Benzocaine, an ester-type local anesthetic, was believed responsible for apparent methemoglobinemia in a cat. The cat was admitted with acute respiratory distress, vomiting, and collapse, which began 15 to 20 minutes after topical application of the drug. ⋯ Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia has been reported in man, dogs, and cats. This report supports the findings of others regarding the potential toxicity of topical ester-type local anesthetics.