FiltaBac

Ask Aniwell a question about FiltaBac

FiltaBac Frequently Asked Questions

Can Filta Bac be used on rabbits?

ANIWELL FiltaBac is quite suitable for use on rabbits, especially in protecting fly-strike areas. Apply straight onto the flesh and it will will protect the wound while it heals. Make sure there is a reasonably thick cover of ANIWELL FiltaBac maintained over the affected area and it will also inhibit any future fly strike. Leave the ANIWELL FiltaBac in place for at least 3 days, then it may be gently removed with warm water and mild soap or antiseptic solution. Pat the area dry and re-apply.
Hope this will prove successful for your rabbit(s).

Can Filtabac be safely used on sores/ulcerations of the lips?

Absolutely yes, ANIWELL FiltaBac is completely safe to use. The Titanium Dioxide that forms the protective cover is a pharmaceutical grade ingredient and it is this particular grade that is used in food and tablet preparations.
Note that the ANIWELL FiltaBac will need to be re-applied frequently. It is best to maintain a visible cover.

Can FiltaBac be used in felines over a granulating wound, and if so, how often would you suggest application?

Thank you for your question. I have answered it in two parts. Firstly, the specific answer to your question is: 1. FiltaBac is ideally suited to apply onto damaged skin areas at any stage as it will form a cover protection that will transpire, stop contamination entering the wound, is antibacterial and will maintain the living cell structure of the damaged healing area. A reasonably thick cover is required and this should be maintained daily for up to 3 days. Remove with warm water or mild antiseptic solution, pat dry and reapply. Preferably, do not use any other cover for the area. The area of damaged skin should be observed and FiltaBac Cream re-applied to maintain a visible film.
Secondly, you may wish to note an "over-riding" comment on the use of FiltaBac on cats that has been given in relation to similar questions in this section. 2. Cats can be very sensitive to topical applications and in unusual circumstances allergic reaction have occurred when the New Zealand and Australian formulation of FiltaBac has been used on white or near albino cats.
These reactions have been attributed to the inclusion of quaternary ammonium compounds in the NZ and Aus FiltaBac formulation.
FiltaBac UK Cream DOES NOT HAVE Benzalkonium Chloride and the Cetrimide content has been reduced by 66%. For details go to the product specifications section on this website.

Can FiltaBac be used in wet and rainy conditions?

Sure can, best to apply daily in these conditions if that's possible because FiltaBac will wash off after a day of heavy rain. Just make sure the wound is covered with at least a thin white film of FiltaBac and there will be protection to the required area.

Can Filtabac be used solely as a sunblock on horses ie on white muzzles?

Absolutely yes...ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream is a reflector application (as distinct from an absorber application) and contains a very high percentage of Titanium Dioxide plus a smaller percentage of Zinc Oxide.
A film of Titanium Dioxide together with Zinc Oxide creates a TOTAL sun block by reflecting the harmful rays of the sun, UVA and UVB.
As long as there is a visible white cover of ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream, the skin will be protected. Even a fine white cover film will be effective as a sun screen.

Can FiltaBac be used successfully on sheep?

Thank you for your question and yes it can.

ANIWELL FiltaBac has even been successfully used in Australia on pedigree sheep that have been so badly fly blown (fly strike) that they were on the point of being destroyed, however by maintaining a covering of ANIWELL FiltaBac over the affected area, it completely healed and wool regrew.

Remember that ANIWELL FiltaBac also prevents the fluid loss from the affected area, promoting moist wound healing.

Can I apply FiltaBac to a wound that has sutures? How best to do this?

Yes, just apply a generous coating and make sure you re-apply daily if the weather is showery or raining. See Product infomation sheet for details on how and when to use FiltaBac Cream.

Filtabac has Titanium Dioxide in it. Is this harmful in any way to animals? Does it inhibit the growth of new tissue around a wound?

Titanium Dioxide is inert and therefore not harmful in the slightest to animals in the quantities we use. As for inhibiting growth, absolutely not, in fact it helps the new tissue to regenerate by providing a "totally natural second skin". Promoting moist wound healing.

Hi Aniwell, is it possible to purchase FiltaBac in Ireland? Thank you Carolyn

Good morning Carolyn,

Thank you for your enquiry.

The easiest way for you to buy FiltaBac in Ireland would be on-line (as we are only able to sell within UK).

These are some of the on-line stores I have found it on and know that some have sent to EU and USA.

These are few examples of on-line stores that stock our products:

VioVet

Equine-Mega-Store

Petsathome

Petdrugsonline

Hyperdrug

VetMedsDirect

Running Deals

Amazon

I hope this helps you locate some.

Kind regards,

Samantha

How does FiltaBac actually work?

Good question...we've spent just on 30 years of continuous improvements in New Zealand and Australia and now we're proud to bring it to the UK.
Here's how ANIWELL FILTABAC Cream works. It is an oil-in-water cream emulsion with an extremely high content of Titanium Dioxide (Pharmaceutical Grade). When this is applied as a reasonably thick cover protection, the continuous phase of the film is water and so allows the film to create a Natural Skin effect.
The inclusion of an antibacterial minimises or prevents the invasion or growth of bacteria. The optimising of the preservative factor in the cream allows the film coating to function as a protective and active barrier while in place on the damaged area.
The coating and adhesion function of the Titanium Dioxide is inert and does not effect the normal growth of damaged skin or tissue.

How often should FiltaBac be applied to cats?

Thank you for your question. We have had several similar questions about using FiltaBac on cats so you may like to read answers to those questions in this section as well.

Meantime, here is the specific answer to your question above:

FiltaBac Cream may be licked off the area by the cat without any harm. A fine visible white film will still be effective. If sun protection is required, apply in the morning and again at midday if possible. For antibacterial and skin cover, re-apply when the white film is not visible recover with a visible film of FiltaBac Cream. If licking continues to be a problem, try FiltaClear, which has the same sun reflector properties but has an added bittering agent to discourage licking of the area.

I haven't heard of FiltaBac before. What exactly is it used for?

FiltaBac has been in the UK since 2010 and the news of its usefulness on wounds and as a total sunblock is spreading well. We're very pleased with the uptake and feedback we've had to date.

FiltaBac provides a covering film that allows a wound to breath...just like real skin. Particularly good for cuts, abrasions and wounds that horses (and other animals) get in the field. Think of FiltaBac as a protective antibacterial cream specifically formulated to correct damaged or irritated skin. It also has the added benefit of a total sun block.

Please see the downloadable Information guide on this website for instruction on its uses and how to apply.

I've had experience with "antiseptic-type" creams before, pariticlarly on horses with sensitive skin. FiltaBac is "non-reactive", that's good but can you explain this to me please?

Most other "antiseptic-type" creams have a range of ingredients and some can definitely cause a reaction or further irritations. But not FiltaBac. The Titanium Dioxide is inert and totally safe on all skin types. We've had some "rigorous masters and critics" here in NZ over the years in the dairy industry, where FiltaBac NZ is utilised for protection on facial eczema skin lesions on dairy cows and also used for sensitive skin conditions on teats. FiltaBac does not produce milk grades therefore rest assured it will be completely non-reactive when used on a UK horse.

Is filta bac harmful to dogs cause I have noticed it has a lot of zinc oxide in which is ment to be toxic for dogs???

Thank you for your query.

This question is often raised regarding the Zinc oxide in FiltaBac.

The level of Zinc oxide in FiltaBac is very small. This pharmaceutical grade Zinc oxide is an inert element – therefore even if ingested will pass through and not be absorbed by the gut or skin.

Toxicity reports are generally from large ingestion of heavy metal Zinc (e.g.: chewing the wire on galvanised wire cages etc).

I have attached the manufacturing safety data sheet for you which gives the hazard and toxicology information.

We have had reports of dogs having eaten the entire contents of our tubes and not suffered any ill effects – although of course that is not recommended!

I hope this answers your question.

Kind regards,

Is FiltaBac a CREAM and if so, why is it different from an OINTMENT?

Thank you for this question...the answer is similar to another question we had recently on CAMROSA!!
The short answer is:
"ANIWELL FiltaBac is definitely and deliberately formulated as a CREAM...a covering protective CREAM and NOT an ointment".
(I have included below for reference the structural difference between an ointment and a cream).
ANIWELL FiltaBac is antibacterial in a non-aggressive manner and when the CREAM is applied as a protective film over damaged skin areas, it will act as a totally natural skin replacement. ANIWELL FiltaBac achieves the function of a skin covering film because it breathes (transpires). This allows the movement of fluid from the damaged, covered area in the same way as normal skin does.
ANIWELL FiltaBac will: 1. Absorb serum and, 2. Block foreign material entering damaged areas.
This allows the covered area to reform naturally.
The CREAM is an effective antibacterial and the composition of the CREAM will inhibit the growth of yeasts and moulds within the creams formulated structure. Re-growth of normal skin will occur naturally beneath the cover and hair growth. Under normal circumstances, it will return normally as the original colour.
ANIWELL FiltaBac CREAM may be also suitable to cover and protect procedures undertaken by your Veterinary Surgeon. Ask your Vet first.
FOOTNOTE:
"What are the major differences between Ointments and Creams?"
Ointments have a continuous structure known as the Continuous Phase that is oil and water proof. This will lock and waterproof the area covered.
Creams have a continuous phase that is aqueous (water) and will allow transpiration of fluids and the area covered with cream will breathe.

Is it ok to use Aniwell FiltaBac on race day or does it have a withdrawal under the rules of racing in the UK?

Thanks for the question, happy to report that ANIWELL FiltaBac and FiltaClear are both safe products to use on race day as there is no withdrawal time for competition under the current UK rules.
I suspect the same applies for Dressage and Show Jumping. The only concern in these events would be the showing of white (as in ANIWELL FiltaBac) but ANIWELL FiltaClear would be fine indeed. But I will check the provisions for these codes to be absolutely certain. Should the situation be any different from what I've said, I will confirm with a revised answer later on this website question.
If there was a withholding factor it could apply to the cross country rather than the ring events.

Is this cream similar to CAMROSA?

do not know Camrosa Ointment or what the formulating is. I would assume that Camrosa has specific qualities pertaining to different conditions.
ANIWELL FiltaBac is a covering protective CREAM and is NOT an ointment.
(I have included below for reference the structural difference between an ointment and a cream).
ANIWELL FiltaBac is antibacterial in a non-aggressive manner and when the cream is applied as a protective film over damaged skin areas, it will act as a totally natural skin replacement. ANIWELL FiltaBac achieves the function of a skin covering film because it breathes (transpires). This allows the movement of fluid from the damaged, covered area in the same way as normal skin does.
ANIWELL FiltaBac will: 1. Absorb serum and, 2. Block foreign material entering damaged areas.
This allows the covered area to reform naturally.
The CREAM is an effective antibacterial and the composition of the CREAM will inhibit the growth of yeasts and moulds within the creams formulated structure. Re-growth of normal skin will occur naturally beneath the cover and hair growth. Under normal circumstances, it will return normally as the original colour.
ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream may be also suitable to cover and protect procedures undertaken by your Veterinary Surgeon. Ask your Vet first.
FOOTNOTE:
"What are the major differences between Ointments and Creams?"
Ointments have a continuous structure known as the Continuous Phase that is oil and water proof. This will lock and waterproof the area covered.
Creams have a continuous phase that is aqueous (water) and will allow transpiration of fluids and the area covered with cream will breathe.

My horse has an area of scar tissue on his pastern from a granulating wound, will ANIWELL FiltaBac help the hair regrowth?

ANIWELL FiltaBac will be quite safe to cover the granuating area. It forms a natural skin and is non-aggresively antibacterial. The formuation of ANIWELL FiltaBac allows the area to transpire (breathe) normally (just like normal skin does) so the cover tissue will continue to reform. Normally the hair will regrow and the colour will be the same as before. Do not bandage and maintain a visible cover.

My horse has no hair around the eyes and down toward her muzzle. Is it safe for use near her eyes?

Yes, ANIWELL FiltaBac will be quite safe to apply right up to the eye and on to hairless and non-pigmented skin. If it is to be used for sunburn protection, just maintaining a visible cover should be enough. However, if the skin is damaged and needs protection the ANIWELL FiltaBac should be applied in moderate thickness to maintain a "Natural Skin" cover. The underlying damaged area will be protected plus have the additional benefit of the anti-bacterial function. Please read the Information sheets regarding application and uses - downlaodable from this website under "Guides".

What is the advice for use in cats??

Thank you for your question. I have answered it in two parts> 1. Cats can be very sensitive to topical applications and in unusual circumstances allergic reaction have occurred when the New Zealand and Australian formulation of FiltaBac has been used on white or near albino cats. These reactions have been attributed to the inclusion of quaternary ammonium compounds in the NZ and Aus FiltaBac formulation. FiltaBac UK Cream DOES NOT HAVE Benzalkonium Chloride and the Cetrimide content has been reduced by 66%. For details go to the product specifications section on this website. 2.Cats, especially white albino type cats, frequently require sun protection. Mainly on the pink non-pigment skin areas of the ear margins and nose. The very sensitive nature of these skin areas may react to topical applications. Reaction is highly unlikely. In the case of a reaction remove the FiltaBac Cream from the area and the reaction will subside within 12 hours. FiltaClear Cream is an alternative sun reflector, cover and antibacterial cream. Contact your wholesaler for this product.

Where can I buy FiltaBac for my First Aid kit please? My vet recently gave me a sample for use on my horse on a wound we couldn't get to completely heal. I was impressed with the results when I used FiltaBac.?

That's good to hear ANIWELL FiltaBac worked on your horse. We launched ANIWELL FiltaBac in the UK market in 2010 and have been very pleased with the positive response from Distributors, vets and horse-lovers like yourself. All the major Distributors in the UK stock or have access to stocking the ANIWELL FiltaBac range and in turn they supply all veterinary clinics, local vets, pet/vet pharmacies and equine supply stores. You'll find there are a range of pack sizes for ANIWELL FiltaBac (tubes and a 500gm tub) so one of them will be suitable for your first aid kit. If you'd like further information please come back to us.

Why does it say on the packaging of FiltaBac "For Cats, Seek Veterinary Advice"?

Thanks for your question...here are some helpful points to clarify this point on the UK packaging. Cats, especially white albino-type cats, frequently require sun protection, or a cover film of ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream mainly on the pink non-pigment skin areas of the ear margins and nose. The very sensitive nature of these skin areas may react to topical applications. Reaction to ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream (the UK formulation) is highly unlikely. In the case of a reaction, remove the ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream from the area and the reaction will subside within 12 hours.
Cats can be very sensitive to topical applications and in unusual circumstances allergic reactions have occurred when the New Zealand and Australian formulation of ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream has been used on white or near-albino cats. These reactions have been attributed to the quaternary ammonium compounds which is used in the NZ and Australian formulation.
ANIWELL FiltaBac UK Cream DOES NOT HAVE Benzalkonium Chloride and the Cetrimide content has been REDUCED BY 66%.
ANIWELL FiltaClear Cream is an alternative sun reflector and cover cream. ANIWELL FiltaClear Cream also contains Denatonium Benzoate (Bitrex®) as an anti-licking agent and is suitable for Cats and Dogs. Please refer to the section 'FILTACLEAR' on this website for more information on this product.

Wondering if it is safe to use on a lactating mare that has sunburnt nose and eyes . Will it go though bloodstream to milk as be safe for foal. Many Thanks. Michelle

Thank you for your email Michelle,

FiltaBac is not absorbed into the skin – the ingredients are inert and are reflectors rather than absorbers. Even if the foal nuzzled it off her face the creams non-toxic.

This product is used in the dairy industry in NZ and Australia on dairy cows teats and does not produce milk grades that would effect the milk quality.

I hope this has answered your question.

Would ANIWELL FiltaBac be a good cream to use on clipper rash on dogs?

The rash is normally created by the close shave and taking minute portions of skin away. Ideally, cover the area with ANIWELL FiltaBac and usually a thin cover will do. It will form a replacement skin and is non-aggressively antibacterial. This should maintain a bug-free area. Do not cover and if only a thin cover OF ANIWELL FiltaBac has been applied, maintain a visible film at regular intervals. If the dog is in the house then ANIWELL FiltaBac may rub off on furniture. In that case, use ANIWELL FiltaClear and gently massage onto the affected area. This will almost disappear into the skin and it contains Bitrex (very bitter) to minimise licking. Don't forget to wash your hands after applying to avoid having the residual bitter after-taste yourself.

Would FiltaBac be a good first-aid cream to carry 'in the field'?

Yes indeed, in fact I wish we could send you a spray gun and a back pack...we're working on it!!! Obviously the most convenient pack sizes we have at present would be the 120g and 220g tubes for First Aid Kits. I'd welcome any suggestions you may have if another pack size or configuration would be useful for you.

Would this be an ideal cream to apply to a sunburnt nose on horses? There are some open sores.?

Absolutely yes...and filtaBac Cream will protect the open sores and broken skin. Cover the visible damaged skin area with a reasonable coating of ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream. This will naturally replace the lost skin and act as an anti-bacterial cover. Retain the cover by re-applying ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream to the area without removing the original cover daily for 3 days.
After 3 days, gently remove the ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream from the area by using warm water and a mild soap or antiseptic solution. Pat dry and re-cover with ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream. This area will form new skin and should be clear in 7 to 10 days. Hair re-grows naturally on the area.
An important thing to remember is that ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream is a reflector application (as distinct from an absorber application) and contains a very high percentage of Titanium Dioxide plus a smaller percentage of Zinc Oxide.
A film of Titanium Dioxide together with Zinc Oxide creates a TOTAL sun block by reflecting the harmful rays of the sun, UVA and UVB. As long as there is a visible white cover of ANIWELL FiltaBac Cream, the skin will be protected. Even a fine white cover film will be effective as a sun screen.