Use and abuse of topical dermatological therapy in dogs and cats Part 1. Shampoo therapy

THE accessibility of the skin has meant that for centuries topical preparations have formed an important component of dermatological therapy. The opportunity for the clinician to deliver drugs directly to the diseased target organ should be exploited whenever possible, as this often permits the use of lower potency products and reduces the risk of systemic side‐effects. In this, the first of two reviews on topical dermatological therapy, the indications for, and potential problems associated with, the various categories of shampoos available for use in the dog and cat are discussed.