This household item is so toxic it could kill your pet with just one lick: ‘I had no idea’

Would you rather lose your hair or lose your pet?

A doctor is sounding the alarm over the dangers of the current version of the hair loss drug minoxidil, saying residue on your hands could be deadly for your dog or cat.

Dr Joe Whittington, who boasts more than 2 million followers on TikTok, made a PSA video about the potentially dangerous product – and it’s alarming viewers around the world.

Minoxidil is an active ingredient in topical products, including Rogaine, applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

@drjoe_md

💀 A lick can be fatal! If you’re using minoxidil for hair growth, it’s time to double-check your safety routine—this stuff is incredibly toxic to pets. Cats and dogs are at serious risk from even the slightest exposure. Protect your furry friends by washing your hands, cleaning up spills, and keeping them out of reach. Your hair journey doesn’t have to put their lives at risk! 🐾 #animalsafety #Minoxidil #Hair care tips

♬ original sound – Dr. Joe, MD 🩺

Foams and liquid solutions of the drug are extremely popular with both men and women, and products containing 5% minoxidil or less are available over the counter for less than $30.

“It’s so toxic that even the slightest exposure can be life-threatening, especially for cats because their bodies don’t have the ability to metabolize it,” Whittington revealed in a viral video, viewed 790,000 times.

“Simply walking through the residue or licking it off the skin can cause severe toxicity,” the doctor added.

“Protect your furry friends by washing your hands, cleaning up spills and keeping them out of reach. Your hair journey doesn’t have to put their lives at risk.”

Many viewers were left dismayed by the news, with one writing: “This household item is so toxic it could kill your pet with just one lick: ‘I had no idea’.”

“I have a lot of bald spots on my head and was thinking of buying minoxidil but now I’m confused as my car is attached and always sleeps next to me,” cried another.

Meanwhile, others left comments warning viewers about the potential danger of allowing an animal parked on your pad.

“Don’t let them sleep on your pillow. Reside can stick to their fur, and when they clean themselves, they can swallow it!” they explained.

Minoxidil is also available in oral form, with some reviewers saying it was safer and easier to use that way.

“Just take it as a pill,” pleaded a “It’s not worth the risk.”