FAQ

SKIN: ADVANCED ENZYMATIC SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Is the ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Shampoo and Conditioner replacing the current shampoo and conditioner?

No. There will be a formula with and a formula without oat extract for both the shampoos and conditioners

What is the difference between the ZYMOX shampoo and the ZYMOX advanced enzymatic shampoo?

The new products feature the same trusted LP3 Enzyme System that is at the center of all ZYMOX and Oratene products, plus the addition of Avena Sativa (oat) extract, creating a hypoallergenic formulation. These new products will be ideal for the animal experiencing sensitive, dry, irritated, or itchy skin.

Is the smell any different in the new ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Shampoo or Conditioner? do they smell like the other shampoo and conditioner?

The scent of the new products has not changed and will continue to have our signature scent.

The labels on the ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Shampoo and Conditioner indicate the ingredient of potassium iodine vs potassium iodide.

This is a typo that will be corrected to read potassium iodide. This is not public information.

Is the ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Shampoo and Conditioner available for purchase now?

It is currently for sale at PetSmart. It will be available at other retailers, ecommerce sites and zymox.com beginning September 1, 2022.

What is Avena Sativa?

Avena Sativa extract is derived from oat, also known as oat extract, and used in many skin and hair products. It is beneficial in helping to aid in healing itchy, raw, dry skin.

Does the ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Shampoo and Conditioner contain oatmeal?

No, the ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Shampoo and Conditioner does not contain oatmeal. These products contain Avena sativa (oat extract).

The ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Conditioner doesn’t have the words leave-on in the name as the other conditioner does, can it still be used as a leave-on?

Both conditioners can be rinsed off or left on to dry. The conditioners can also be applied directly to the skin as a lotion or diluted with water (if used immediately)

Will the ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Conditioner dry greasy or leave a residue if not rinsed off?

No, the conditioner will not dry greasy or leave a residue.

My pet is allergic to oats. should a pet use the new advanced shampoo and/or conditioner which contains oat extract?

Some dogs or cats can be allergic to oats but these are typically from oral ingestion.  However, introduction of some allergens/irritants can be introduced from dry or cracked skin.   For a pet with known oat allergens it is not recommended to use a shampoo or conditioner with oats, oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal.   While our oat extract may be beneficial for most dogs or cats with dry skin, for a pet with a known hypersensitivity to oat, it is not recommended to use the new formulation of shampoo and conditioner.

SKIN: SHAMPOO & LEAVE-ON CONDITIONER

Is it necessary that I use ZYMOX® Shampoo before applying the ZYMOX® Leave-On Conditioner, or can I use the shampoo that I already have?

ZYMOX® Shampoo is the recommended shampoo to use with ZYMOX® Leave-On Conditioner because its known gentle plant surfactants will not affect the enzyme formula in the rinse and its effectiveness. ZYMOX® Shampoo does not contain harsh detergents, pesticides, colorings, or residual petroleum products that might cause unnecessary skin irritation. These and other harsh surfactants used in many other pet shampoos could potentially destroy or disrupt the enzymes in the Leave-On Conditioner.

Can the ZYMOX® Shampoo and ZYMOX® Leave-On Conditioner be used on irritated skin due to flea or tick infestation?

Once a flea and/or tick infestation has been resolved, ZYMOX® Shampoo can be used to manage irritated skin followed by ZYMOX® Leave-On Conditioner.

How are ZYMOX® skin and ear products different from other products on the market?

The ZYMOX® line of skin and ear care products contains no antibiotics or harsh chemicals but rather employs the powerful, patented LP3 enzyme system. The products can safely be used on all aged pets.

SKIN: SPRAY & CREAM

How do I ensure optimal results for irritated skin?

In order to optimize results using ZYMOX® Topical Spray orZYMOX® Topical Cream, follow the no pre-cleaning protocol. Rinsing the area with water is allowed, however, no cleaning or antiseptic agent is necessary before using ZYMOX® topicals. When dealing with itchy allergy skin and general superficial skin irritations, many pet owners have found ZYMOX® Shampoo and Leave-On Conditioner to be excellent additions to the Cream and Spray.

How should I store the product?

ZYMOX® products should be kept away from heat and stored at room temperature. Cold will not harm the enzymes. All bottles and tubes should be closed completely after each use.

Can ZYMOX® skin care products be transferred to another bottle for application?

The transfer or decanting of ZYMOX® products is not recommended due to the possibility of contamination and the enzymes being disrupted by coming in contact with any possible residue in the new container.

What is the difference between ZYMOX® Ear and Skin Care available in stores and ZYMOX® available through my veterinarian?

ZYMOX® products from a veterinarian have a higher concentration of hydrocortisone in comparison to the over-the-counter ZYMOX® products found in stores and online.

EARS

Can ZYMOX® Ear Solution be used to maintain healthy pet ears?

ZYMOX® Ear Solution will clean out exudate, help relieve irritations, and keep the ear clean. ZYMOX® Ear Solution is effective for maintenance of the pet’s ears, or to help with itching and discharge especially during the allergy season.

What can I use to clean my pet's ears before I apply ZYMOX® Ear Solution?

You should not use any other ear preparations before or during applications of ZYMOX® Ear Solution because the enzyme activity that is present could become interrupted. The use of ZYMOX® Ear Cleanser is only recommended after using a full course of ZYMOX® Ear Solution to keep dirty ears clean.

If ZYMOX® Ear Solution requires no pre-cleaning, then when would ZYMOX® Ear Cleanser be recommended?

The ZYMOX® Ear Cleanser is ideal for cleaning dirty ears. It is not always necessary to clean ears.

Can ZYMOX® Ear Solution be used for smelly ears?

ZYMOX® Ear Solution is to clean out troublesome exudate. If ear wax or dirt seems to be causing the odor, then ZYMOX® Ear Cleanser may be used.

I just cleaned my pet's ears. Can I still use the ear solution?

No problem. Just wait 24 hours and start again.

Is ZYMOX® Ear Solution safe for cats?

The ZYMOX® LP3 Enzyme System is safe to use on cats. ZYMOX® is formulated without antibiotics or harsh chemicals and is non-toxic. It is ideal for cats, dogs, other furry pets and farm friends of all ages.

What if a pet parent doesn’t see improvement when using ZYMOX® Ear Solution?

Occasionally, a pet parent will not achieve the desired results after two weeks of use. Oftentimes, this is due to the pet owner not following the recommended “no pre-cleaning” protocol. Cleaning disrupts the enzymatic activity and may make the product less effective. If recommended directions have been followed, and after 7 days there is no improvement, then consult a veterinarian.

Can I use ZYMOX® Ear Solution along with antibiotics?

ZYMOX® Ear Solution may be used with any products administered orally. All ZYMOX® products are for topical use only and should not be used in conjunction with any other ear topical.

What is the benefit of the Hydrocortisone?

The anti-itch properties of Hydrocortisone have provided much relief to pets with itchy, irritated skin of either the ears or skin. It is important to note though, any product containing hydrocortisone shouldn’t be used on pregnant or lactating females or those pets with a sensitivity to steroids.

There are so many ZYMOX® ear products, which one do I use?

We have professional veterinary and retail lines of ZYMOX® products. They are available from vet clinics, select pet retailers, and online from various sellers. Your retailer or vet can advise you which product is the best for your pet’s needs.

ORAL CARE

Does Oratene® freshen breath?

A benefit of all of the Oratene® Brushless Oral Care products is that they contain enzymes that boost and restore saliva's natural balance, and eliminate bad breath odor. A pet's bad breath can be a result of several things, and it is important to visit your veterinarian for a dental examination and teeth cleaning.

Does Oratene® Brushless Oral Care remove existing plaque?

Oratene® contains the most complete, multi-complex enzyme system available to keep your pet’s teeth and gums clean and healthy. A veterinarian must remove the hardened calculus, known as tartar.

How do I apply Oratene® Brushless Toothpaste Gel to my pet's mouth?

Once or twice a day, apply a 1/2" strip between the cheek and upper gums. This is a brushless toothpaste, which means the pet's own saliva distributes the product to all parts of the mouth. If you prefer to apply with a brush, you can, but it's not necessary.

How did Oratene® Oral Care come into development, and how long has it been on the market?

Oratene® Oral Care is based on 40+ years of enzyme research and features the dual enzyme systems, LP3 and MD2. The chemistry of this line was borne from the leading human oral care product line for the management of a condition called Xerostomia (Dry Mouth) and adapted for use in pets.

Can the Oratene® Brushless Water Additive be used with a fountain?

Yes, however the filter MUST be taken out or it will remove the enzymes compounds and it will plug up the filter.

Are the products safe for puppies and kittens?

Oratene® is safe to use on puppies and kittens. The products do not contain xylitol, alcohol, chlorhexidine or chlorine compounds. Studies have shown that dental disease begins as early has 6 months in dogs and cats. The earlier you begin dental care, the better.

How often should I use Oratene® Oral Care?

For best results, we recommend using the oral care products on a daily basis.

The products say brushless yet I've trained my pet to accept brushing. What should I do?

The most important thing to remember is daily oral care, regardless of brushing or using a brushless system, will enhance the health of any pet. It is fine for Oratene® Toothpaste Gel to be applied with a finger or a toothbrush.

How much of the water additive should I use?

The directions are two pumps to a quart (4 cups) of fresh water. If you have a smaller pet, you can divide it in half - one pump to two cups of water.

How does the water additive work since it's not applied directly to mouth or gums?

The water additive is a flavorless concentrate that dilutes well in fresh water. The enzymes come in contact with the mouth with every lap of water.

Which product should I use?

For optimal results, we recommend using all three products: the water additive, the toothpaste gel, and the Oratene® Brushless Breath Freshener. But the choice is up to the pet parent to use one, two, or all three product(s). All three products feature the same dual enzyme systems. All three are truly brushless. If convenience is a key factor or your pet doesn't like to have their mouth touched, we recommend the water additive. If you have a program that works for you and your pet is still suffering from halitosis, try using the breath freshener. If you are comfortable flipping your pet's lip open, then the gel can be used and will provide maximum enzyme contact.

Is Oratene® safe for my diabetic pet?

Yes, Oratene® is safe—and beneficial--for the diabetic pet. One of the side effects of diabetes is damage to blood vessels that supply the mouth and jaw, which in turn can affect the salivary glands. The dual enzyme systems in Oratene® work to encourage healthy oral flora.

Do the products need to be refrigerated?

No, they should be stored at room temperature.

What is the shelf life?

Every product has an expiration date noted on the bottle. Keep the cap on tightly and out of direct sunlight or heat.

The label and ingredients look different. Is it the same product?

Yes, it is the same quality product. We've had a name change and a label redesign. The ingredients are the same, but they have been reorganized in a different order.

EAR AND SKIN

The ZYMOX Topical Cream for Cats & Kittens features a tube that is identical to the topical cream already on the market. what is the background?

The new ZYMOX for Cat and Kittens is packaged for use on cats but there have been no changes to the original formulations. A benefit to the new packaging is more cat owners will be exposed to the benefits of ZYMOX because it will be featured in the cat health section of pet specialty retailers. The feline-focused packaging also includes the prestigious seal of endorsement by TICA, The International Cat Association.

What is TICA?

TICA is to cats what the AKC is to dogs, however, TICA is not just for pedigreed cats. The International Cat Association is considered the world's largest genetic cat registry. Originally a North American organization, it now has a worldwide presence. The organization has a genetic registry for pedigreed and household pet cats and is one of the world's largest sanctioning bodies for cat shows.

What products does TICA endorse for cats?

TICA has endorsed all ZYMOX Dermatology and Oratene Brushless Oral Care for the brands’ commitment to providing safe, non-toxic and easy-to-use solutions that do not have antibiotics or harsh ingredients. This endorsement is the highest honor awarded to companies, brands, or products and ZYMOX and Oratene are among the select few to have earned this.

Aloe is toxic to cats - but the topical cream contains aloe. Should I be concerned?

It is true that aloe is toxic to cats but what is important to know is the ingredient in the Topical Cream (as well as our Sprays) is aloe vera – which comes from the inside of the aloe plant and is not toxic to cats. The part of the aloe plant that is toxic to cats is outside – aka the leaf.

SPRAY & CREAM

How do I ensure optimal results when for irritated skin?

In order to optimize results using ZYMOX® Equine Defense Topical Spray or Cream, follow the no pre-cleaning protocol. Rinsing the area with water is allowed, however, no cleaning or antiseptic agent is necessary before using ZYMOX® topicals. When dealing with itchy allergy skin and general superficial skin irritations, many horse owners have found ZYMOX® Equine Defense Skin & Coat Wash and Skin Guard to be excellent additions to the Cream and Spray.

Does ZYMOX® Equine Defense contain steroids?

No steroids are used, only natural enzymes so your horse will test clean.

How are ZYMOX® Equine Defense products different from other products on the market?

The ZYMOX® Equine Defense products contain no antibiotics or harsh chemicals but rather employs the powerful & patented LP3 enzyme system. The products can safely be used on horses of all ages.

SKIN & COAT WASH/ SKIN GUARD

Is it necessary that I use ZYMOX® Equine Defense Skin & Coat Wash before applying the ZYMOX® Equine Defense Skin Guard, or can I use the shampoo that I already have?

ZYMOX® Skin & Coat Wash is the recommended shampoo to use with ZYMOX® Skin Guard because its known gentle plant surfactants will not affect the enzyme formula in the conditioner and its effectiveness. ZYMOX® Skin & Coat Wash does not contain harsh detergents, pesticides, colorings or residual petroleum products that might cause unnecessary skin irritation. These and other harsh surfactants used in many other pet shampoos could potentially destroy or disrupt the enzymes in the Skin Guard.

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