Experts warn pets can be affected by owners taking HRT

Key takeaways

• Pets can absorb HRT through skin contact, causing hormonal changes and symptoms such as hair loss, mood shifts, and signs of heat in spayed females.

• HRT prescriptions are rising, with nearly 14.7 million items dispensed in 2024/25, making awareness of pet safety increasingly important.

• Prevent exposure by washing hands, covering treated areas, and storing patches securely, and seek veterinary advice immediately if symptoms appear.

With more people using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) creams, gels, sprays and patches, it's time to highlight an important but little-known risk: pets can absorb HRT through skin contact, which may cause hormonal changes.¹

According to NHS Business Services Authority data, HRT prescriptions are on the rise. In 2024/25, nearly 14.7 million items were dispensed to around 2.8 million patients - an 11% increase since 2023/24, with estradiol gel the most prescribed formulation.²

This warning comes as routine NHS Health Checks are set to  include dedicated menopause questions - a step expected to benefit nearly five million women.

Kara Gammell
Personal Finance & Insurance Expert

Always be cautious when handling medications around your pet

When it comes to protecting your pet, it’s easy to think the biggest risk is them swallowing a pill. But hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products can pose a hidden danger through simple skin contact.

If your pet comes into contact with cream or gel residue – particularly on less hairy areas like their belly – it can lead to unexpected symptoms, such as a spayed female dog showing signs of being in heat.

Always wash your hands thoroughly after applying HRT and keep treated areas covered to reduce the risk. And if you notice any unusual behaviour, speak to your vet straight away.

What are the signs and symptoms of HRT exposure?

With almost a third (28%) of dog and cat owners aged 45–54³, here are the key signs to look out for and what to do if you think your pet has come into contact with HRT.

In all dogs:

• Hair loss

• Changes in mood

• Increased attention from other dogs

• More frequent barking or whining

• Reduced appetite

In female dogs:

• Swelling around the vulva

• Light bleeding or discharge

In male dogs:

• Strong attraction to female dogs

• Swelling of the mammary area

• Noticeably smaller penis

Prevention checklist

If you're taking HRT, here is a short preventative checklist to help keep your pets safe:

• Apply HRT to areas pets can’t easily contact and let gels/creams fully dry before dressing.

• Wash hands with soap and water after application (not just sanitiser).

• Cover treated skin with clothing and wash before cuddling or sharing beds.

• Store patches securely; fold used patches adhesive-side in before disposal.

What to do if you think your pet has absorbed HRT

Accidental contact with HRT cream, gel, spray or patches can happen more easily than you might think – for example, if your pet licks your skin or rubs against the area where it had been applied.

Kara Gammell
Personal Finance & Insurance Expert

Don't hesitate to seek advice

If you are taking HRT and notice any unusual behaviour or health changes in your pet, speak to a vet as soon as possible, and make sure to mention your concerns about the medication.

Many pet insurance policies include 24/7 online consultations, which can make getting advice quick and convenient.

Most cases can be treated successfully, but taking early action helps avoid complications - and having the right pet insurance cover in place can make those unexpected vet bills easier to manage.

<sup>Sources
1. Improve Veterinary Practice
2. Hormone Replacement Therapy - England - April 2015 to June 2025
3. MoneySuperMarket research conducted by YouGov in August 2025. 2,193 people were surveyed of which 1,115 were pet owners.</sup>