What is a Safe Way to Dye Your Pet's Hair?

Select Your Pet

• The most commonly dyed animals seem to be dogs, and that is so for a reason. Small animals such as hamsters and exotic animals such as chinchillas shouldn't be dyed, because applying many types of colorant requires rinsing. Water exposure can make pet rodents ill, and in the case of chinchillas, ruin their fur. Any other negative effects of dyeing small animals haven't been studied, so it is best to stick to larger pets such as dogs--and even cats--when considering dyeing your pet.

  Keep in mind that cats don't like to sit still or get wet and many cats don't like to have anything on their fur at all. Your cat will need to have the right kind of docile personality to be dyed.

  The brightest colors will show up on the lightest pets, but do not consider bleaching your pet's fur. Human hair colors and bleaches are not safe for use on animals and can result in serious injury. Many animals have sensitive skin, or irritations from scratching. If your pet has any broken skin or balding patches, do not attempt to dye them and instead seek medical treatment. If your pets skin appears healthy, apply a patch test and observe the spot over several days to check for a negative reaction.

Your Workspace

• When dyeing your pet, it is best to work outdoors to avoid staining walls or furniture if your pet gets loose. Be sure to have a harness to keep your pet in a restricted area, and consider using a protective veterinary funnel, in case your dog or cat wants to lick it. Many pet dyes are nontoxic, but you never know how your pet will react if dye is ingested. If you are using colorant that requires rinsing, working outdoors also will be beneficial, in that it allows for easy access to a garden hose. Again, this is a situation where many cats will not be comfortable.

  Use protective gloves and throwaway clothes to avoid getting unwanted stains on yourself during the process. Whether using a spray or gel application, apply the color evenly, and rinse thoroughly while avoiding the eyes, snout and ears of your pet.

Dye Alternatives

• Children's craft markers known as BloPens are nontoxic and create a airbrushed appearance that washes out easily.

  Many groomers use chalk on the coats of pets, however the chalk powder smears as it dries.

  Unsweetened drink mix, such as Kool-Aid, can be mixed with water to create a paste that can be safely applied to pet fur, though be absolutely sure not to use a mix that contains sugar.