Small Animal First Aid Kit Checklist

Below is an updated list of recommended items to include in a first aid kit for your pets.

    • Activated charcoal (liquid)
    • Anti-diarrheal liquid or tablets
    • Antibiotic ointment (for wounds)
    • Antibiotic eye ointment
    • Antihistamine for itching or sedative
    • Bandage scissors
    • Bandage tape
    • Betadine® (povidone-iodine) or Nolvasan® (chlorhexidine), scrub and solution
    • Bubble wrap (for splinting)
    • Cold packs, hot packs or hot water bottle
    • Cotton balls
    • Cotton bandage rolls
    • Cotton-tipped swabs
    • Duct Tape or other heavy tape (for immobilization)
    • Elastic bandage rolls
    • Electric clippers
    • Eye rinse (sterile)
    • Flea and tick prevention and treatment
    • Gauze pads and rolls
    • Hydrogen peroxide
    • Ice cream sticks (which may be used as splints)
    • Info card with your veterinary emergency clinic phone number and the local or national poison-control number (800-222-1222)
    • Info card indicating your pet’s base-line temperature and weight
    • Isopropyl alcohol/alcohol prep pads
    • Karo Syrup or honey (for shock)
    • Latex gloves or non-allergenic gloves
    • Liquid dish detergent (mild wound and body cleanser)
    • Measuring spoons
    • Medications and preventatives (such as heartworm prevention), minimum 2-week supply, with clearly labeled instructions. Provide veterinary and pharmacy contact information for refills.
    • Muzzle(s)
    • Needle-nose pliers
    • Non-adherent bandage pads
    • Plastic Wrap (to seal wounds)
    • Saline solution (for rinsing wounds)
    • Sterile lubricant (water based)
    • Styptic powder (clotting agent)
    • Syringe or eyedropper
    • Syrup of Ipecac (to induce vomiting)
    • Thermometer (digital)
    • Tourniquet
    • Towel and washcloth
    • Tweezers

      For more detailed information, visit the AVMA website.