Animal care products occupy a legal grey area. They are not covered by cosmetic legislation and legally an animal is considered an object. In practice, animal skincare products are classified as technical preparations—similar to automotive products—which means that the use of substances not permitted in human cosmetics is allowed. For this reason, understanding product safety in animal care products is essential.

Authorities do not require manufacturers or marketers of animal care products to have formal qualifications or to meet any quality standards for raw materials. This means that anyone – whether a layperson or an expert – can bring their own version of a product to market.

For consumers, this makes it challenging to choose a safe and high-quality product. Behind safe and effective animal care products, such as dog skincare products, horse skincare products, and products suitable for cats, you will typically find the following key factors:

1. The manufacturer or marketer can demonstrate genuine expertise in the products and their applications. The company also has appropriate qualifications for the field.
2. Product labels list all ingredients, not just a few “active” or impressive-sounding components.
3. The product clearly explains the scientific or practical basis for its effectiveness.
4. There are clear directions for use and intended purpose.
5. Dosage instructions are provided.
6. Storage instructions are included.
7. Additional reliability is demonstrated if there is scientific evidence supporting the product’s safety and efficacy.

Please note that human cosmetic products are formulated for human skin (pH ~5.5), whereas animals’ skin is more neutral (pH ~7). Therefore, products made for humans are not directly suitable for animal skincare, especially in cases of skin problems.

An ecological alternative for pet skincare can be found in the natural Solheds Derma products, which are developed specifically for cats, dogs, and horses. These products offer a safe and effective solution for animal skincare without harmful chemicals.

All Solheds Derma products meet the above criteria (1–7): they are manufactured responsibly, ingredients are clearly listed, efficacy is well-founded, instructions and dosages are properly defined, and storage guidance is available. Most importantly, the Solheds Derma range is developed by qualified professionals with formal expertise in the field – ensuring a high level of product safety, quality, and trustworthiness.

 Natural Products in Animal Skincare

A product cannot be considered a natural product simply because it contains one or a few natural ingredients. True natural products do not contain petrochemical by-products such as paraffin, petroleum jelly, or mineral oils. Instead, they rely on genuine plant-based oils.

The oils and raw materials used in Solheds Derma natural animal care products are natural, safe, and suitable as dog skincare products, horse skincare products, and also for cats. This ensures that animal skincare can be carried out ecologically, safely, and effectively – using only genuine natural ingredients.

You can find more information about animal care product safety and the transparency of our entire operation here. Detailed information about our ecological pet skincare products is available in our webshop – from individual ingredients to product shelf life. We offer a safe and natural choice for your pet’s skincare.