✓Reviewed by Ann Pruitt, InfoHorse.com·Updated April 2026
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Zymox® Topical Spray or Cream for HotSpots by Pet King Brands Zymox Topical Cream and Spray are ideal in wound care as well as other common skin conditions such as allergic skin and hotspots! About Pet King Brands, Makers of Zymox® Pet King Brands was started in 1998 by president and company visionary, Pamela Bosco and includes several products for pet dermatology and oral care. All of the products share a patented formulation of antimicrobial enzymes developed by Bosco's talented bioscientist brother, Michael Pellico. The LP3 Enzyme System is a combination of naturally occuring enzymes which work synergistically to form their antibacterial and antifungal properties and aid in the health of a pet’s ears, skin and mouth. The reigning flagship products continues to be the Zymox Ear products. Over the years, additional products have been introduced to meet the needs of pet owners seeking products without harsh chemicals or antibiotics and their availablity has been expanded to now include select pet retailers.
Relief Has Arrived— For Owners as Well as Dogs!
Zymox® not only brings relief to pets but to their owners as well. Nothing hurts a dog owner more than seeing their beloved dog suffer. Over time, chronic infections can be time-consuming, frustrating and extremely costly to a pet owner. Zymox®'s proven product line utilizes the LP3 Enzyme System for long-term maintenance and prevention of chronic ear and skin infections. These easy to use topical dermatology products are convenient, safe and effective.
Why Are Enzymes Better?
Enzymes are naturally occurring substances which act as catalysts to bring about a biochemical change. Enzymes won’t irritate a pet’s sensitive or raw skin; are very safe, non toxic for pets, people and the environment and most importantly, bacteria won’t develop resistance against enzymes. The patented LP3 Enzyme System in Zymox is a combination of enzymes which work synergistically to inhibit, split and destroy the offending bacteria, fungi and even some viruses making the combination antibacterial as well as antifungal. The enzymes only target the invading single-celled organisms, healthy cells are unaffected.
Zymox® Topical Spray or Cream for Hot Spots & Skin Infections!
The most common skin condition both dogs and cats can be afflicted with are hot spots. They are characterized by itchy, raw, sometimes bloody patches of skin. In addition to managing hot spots, the Zymox Topical Cream and Spray are ideal in wound care as well as other common skin conditions such as allergic skin..
Does It Matter What Kind Of Skin Infection or Hot Spots My Dog Has?
Regardless if bacterial, fungal or yeast, Zymox can be applied 1x/day as needed with no pre-cleaning or scrubbing of the skin because the LP3 Enzyme System reacts with the infectious pus and debris to form its antimicrobial properties and will naturally clean and disinfect the affected skin. Zymox is safe, gentle and non-toxic and worry-free if a pet licks application site. Both contain hydrocortisone for additional inflammation relief.
What About Hard To Reach Places on My Dog?
The TopicalCream features a catheter tip which is ideal for hard to reach applications such as skin folds and helps you target the application to whatever area your dog may be in need of receiving the soothing benefits of Zymox!
My Dog Has Ringworm— Can Zymox Help?
Yes, Zymox can help your dog overcome Ringworm, Impentigo, and yeast infections!
What About A Bathing Product To Help My Dog With Hot Spots and Skin Infections!
You will be glad to know that Zymox’s Shampoo and Conditioning Rinse is made specifically to sooth hot, itchy, miserable skin! We know that itchy skin is a serious discomfort and concern for your dog. He or she needs help NOW. You’ll love the way our Shampoo and Rinse leave your dog feeling both relieved, refreshed and smelling wonderful.
Zymox® Shampoo for Itchy Inflamed Skin
Zymox® Shampoo for Itchy Inflamed Skin is the first line of defense against infectious microbes is the skin. Zymox® Shampoo provides an effective way to protect this natural barrier without being irritating or drying. Only the mildest plant surfactants are used and the enzymes have anti inflammatory properties to calm the skin. The LP3 Enzyme System with the addition of Vitamin D3 helps relieve surface irritations and hydrate the skin. The shampoo contains no harsh detergents, chemicals or petroleum bi-products and features a pleasant, mild fragrance.
It is...
• Pure and gentle enough for puppies and kittens
• Does not contain harsh detergents, steroids, or petroleum by-products
• Calms and soothes itchy allergy prone skin
• Provides natural inflammation relief
• Pleasant mild fragrance
Zymox® Conditioning Rinse for Itchy Inflamed Skin
Zymox® Conditioning Rinse for Itchy Inflamed Skin produces a powerful protective barrier against minor skin inflammations and surface irritations due to bacterial and fungal microbes. The LP3 Enzyme System with Vitamin D3 provides optimal protection for the skin. For best results, wash first with Zymox® Shampoo and use as a leave-in rinse for residual effectiveness. Can also be safely applied full strength directly to most problematic areas.
Bio-active enzymes have been shown to be effective against:
• Pyotraumatic Dermatitis
• Trichopyton
• Pseudomonas
• Impetigo
• Candida Albicans
• Staphylococcus
• Bodyfold Pyoderma
• Malassezia
• Microsporum
Note: Use as a Leave On rinse for between bathing protection & relief.
What Do People Say Who Have Used Zymox®?
We started our dog on the Zymox® Shampoo and Rinse in July. This treatment made all the difference in the world. —D. Baker El Dorado Springs, MO
I just called order the shampoo and rinse hoping it works on her skin allergies. Once I get those products I feel sure the skin problems will go away. I have so much faith in Zymox® I can't wait to get the products. —N. Cox Mt. Juliet, TN
Don’t Let Your Dog Suffer a Minute Longer! Buy Zymox® Today!
Hot Spots, Itchy Skin and Wounds must be dealt with— and Zymox is the product to do it. You’ll love the affordability, the ease of use, but best of all, you’ll love the way it makes your dog feel— and look! Zymox is available at DrsFosterandSmith.com, JeffersPet, HorseHealthUSA, and distributors across the country! Zymox Equine Defense Enzymatic Spray 8 oz bottle for horse skin conditions, rain rot, scratches, and thrush
What makes the Zymox® approach different from antibiotics?
Every Zymox® product is built on the patented LP3 Enzyme System, a trio of naturally derived enzymes — lactoperoxidase, lysozyme, and lactoferrin — that work together to disrupt the bacteria, fungus, and yeast behind common ear and skin problems while leaving healthy cells untouched. Because it is enzyme-based rather than antibiotic-based, there is no risk of microbial resistance, and the formulas are free of antibiotics, steroids, parabens, chlorhexidine, benzalkonium chloride, and alcohol. Pamela K. Bosco founded the company on a simple promise: "It's always been our mission to provide solutions, but first, do no harm."
Zymox Equine Defense Enzymatic Spray label detail showing LP3 Enzyme System for horses
Who developed Zymox and how the science was born
Pet King Brands was started in 1998 by President and Founder Pamela Bosco after her German Shepherd, Elizabeth, suffered from chronic, recurring ear infections that conventional treatments could not resolve. Pamela partnered with her brother, bioscientist Michael Pellico — who had earlier developed the enzyme technology behind Biotene®, the leading dentist-recommended dry-mouth brand — to adapt that enzyme science for pets. Together they created the first enzyme-based pet healthcare products, and Zymox® has been trusted by veterinarians for over 25 years.
Zymox Equine Defense spray directions for treating equine wounds and abrasions
Why horse owners reach for Zymox® Equine Defense®
The same LP3 Enzyme System that soothes dogs and cats is formulated for horses in the Zymox® Equine Defense® line, which combines the enzyme complex with skin-soothing aloe vera in a gentle, non-toxic, water-based base. The Equine Defense® Enzymatic Spray offers soothing relief on abrasions, wounds, ringworm, rain rot, scratches, and thrush — exactly the recurring skin and hoof troubles that follow wet pastures and muddy paddocks. It contains no stinging astringents, isopropyl alcohol, or oils, promotes healthy skin without antibiotics or steroids, and contains no banned substances, making it suitable for horses of any age.
Zymox Equine Defense enzymatic spray ingredient panel with aloe vera and LP3 enzymes
The full Zymox® and Oratene® product family
Beyond the topical creams and sprays for hotspots, the line includes Zymox® Otic Enzymatic Solution for ear infections (offered with and without 0.5% or 1% hydrocortisone), LP3 Enzyme Shampoo and conditioning rinses for itchy, infected skin, the Equine Defense® spray, cream, and Skin & Coat Wash for horses, and the Oratene® Brushless Oral Care line that freshens breath and supports gum health with no brushing required. Every formula draws on the same patented enzyme platform, so pet owners can build a coordinated ear, skin, and oral-care routine around one trusted technology.
No scrubbing, no stinging — how to use it A defining benefit of Zymox® is that there is no need for painful disinfection or pre-cleaning — no antiseptic sprays that sting and no pulling or rubbing at sore skin. For the topical cream, apply a thin coat directly to the affected area one to two times per day and continue for seven days; for sprays, shake well, hold the bottle four to six inches away, cover the area thoroughly, and let it air-dry without rinsing or wiping so the enzymes can keep working. The Equine Defense® Spray follows the same pattern: apply once daily for one to two weeks.
Where to buy and how to reach Pet King Brands
Zymox® and Oratene® products are proudly made in the USA and sold through veterinary clinics, pet specialty stores, major online retailers, and directly at zymox.com via the company store locator. To reach Pet King Brands customer service, call toll-free or local, or; the team is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM CST.
Per Pet King Brands: started in 1998 by president and company visionary, Pamela Bosco. Per the company: includes several products for pet dermatology and oral care. All products share a patented formulation of antimicrobial enzymes developed by Bosco's bioscientist brother, Michael Pellico.
What's the LP3 Enzyme System?
Per Pet King Brands: the LP3 Enzyme System is a combination of naturally occurring enzymes that work synergistically to form their antibacterial and antifungal properties. Aids in the health of a pet's ears, skin, and mouth.
What is Zymox® Topical Spray and Cream — what conditions does it treat?
Per Pet King Brands: Zymox® Topical Spray and Cream are ideal in:
Wound care
Allergic skin
Hot spots
Other common skin conditions
Per the company: ZYMOX brings relief to pets AND owners. Over time, chronic infections can be time-consuming, frustrating, and extremely costly to a pet owner.
Why are enzymes better than antibiotics?
Per Pet King Brands: enzymes are naturally occurring substances that act as catalysts to bring about a biochemical change. Advantages:
Won't irritate sensitive or raw skin
Safe, non-toxic for pets, people, environment
Bacteria won't develop resistance against enzymes
Enzymes only target invading single-celled organisms — healthy cells unaffected
Per the company: the patented LP3 Enzyme System inhibits, splits, and destroys offending bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses — antibacterial AND antifungal.
What are ZYMOX's flagship products?
Per Pet King Brands: the flagship products continue to be the ZYMOX Ear products. Over the years, additional products have been introduced for long-term maintenance and prevention of chronic ear and skin infections — convenient, safe, and effective topical dermatology.
How do I order?
Per Pet King Brands: Phone 888-752-5847, email [email protected], website http://www.zymox.com. Now available at select pet retailers in addition to direct.
What is the LP3 Enzyme System in ZYMOX products?
LP3 is the patented enzyme platform at the heart of every ZYMOX product. It combines three naturally derived enzymes — lactoperoxidase, lysozyme, and lactoferrin — that work as a group to disrupt the bacteria, fungus, and yeast that cause ear and skin infections. Because it relies on enzymes rather than antibiotics, it targets harmful microbes without harming healthy cells and without the risk of microbial resistance.
Who founded Pet King Brands and why?
Pet King Brands was started in 1998 by President and Founder Pamela K. Bosco. The inspiration was Elizabeth, her German Shepherd, who suffered from chronic, recurring ear infections that standard treatments could not resolve. Pamela set out to find an antibiotic-free solution, leading to the creation of the company and the ZYMOX line.
What is the connection between ZYMOX and Biotene?
The enzyme science behind ZYMOX was adapted by bioscientist Michael Pellico, Pamela Bosco's brother. Pellico had previously developed the enzyme technology used in Biotene, the leading dentist-recommended dry-mouth product. He applied that same enzyme expertise to create the first enzyme-based pet healthcare products for Pet King Brands.
Does ZYMOX treat dog and cat hot spots?
Yes. ZYMOX Topical Cream and Topical Spray are designed for hot spots, body-fold irritations, wounds, cuts, abrasions, and skin infections on dogs and cats of any age. The LP3 Enzyme System is effective on bacteria, fungus, and yeast infections, including ringworm, staph, and MRSA. Formulas are available with or without hydrocortisone for added itch relief.
Can ZYMOX be used on horses?
Yes. The ZYMOX Equine Defense line brings the same LP3 Enzyme System to horses, paired with skin-soothing aloe vera in a non-toxic, water-based formula. The Equine Defense Enzymatic Spray provides soothing relief on abrasions, wounds, ringworm, rain rot, scratches, and thrush, and it is safe for horses of any age.
Does ZYMOX Equine Defense contain any banned substances?
No. ZYMOX Equine Defense is free of harsh astringents, alcohols, chemicals, antibiotics, and steroids, and contains no banned substances. It promotes healthy skin without antibiotics or steroids, which is an important consideration for owners of competition and show horses.
Do I need to clean or scrub the area before applying ZYMOX?
No. One of the defining benefits of ZYMOX is that there is no need for painful disinfection or pre-cleaning. There are no stinging antiseptic sprays and no pulling or rubbing at sore skin. You apply the product directly to the affected area and let the enzymes do the work.
How do I apply ZYMOX Topical Cream?
Apply a thin coat of the cream directly to the affected area one to two times per day. Continue application for seven days. Because there is no need to pre-clean the area, application is gentle and low-stress for the pet.
How do I use the ZYMOX sprays?
Shake the bottle well, then hold it four to six inches away from the affected area and cover the area thoroughly. Apply one to two times per day. For the Equine Defense Spray, apply once daily for one to two weeks, then let it air-dry without rinsing or wiping so the enzyme activity can continue working on the skin.
What is the difference between the hydrocortisone and hydrocortisone-free versions?
ZYMOX offers both Otic and topical products with and without hydrocortisone, available in strengths such as 0.5% and 1%. The hydrocortisone versions add anti-itch and anti-inflammatory relief for pets with significant irritation, while the hydrocortisone-free versions deliver the same LP3 enzyme action for owners who prefer to avoid corticosteroids.
Does ZYMOX Otic treat ear mites?
ZYMOX Otic helps manage the itching, inflammation, and pain associated with ear problems and is effective on bacterial, fungal, and yeast ear infections, but it will not treat ear mites. For suspected ear mites, consult your veterinarian for an appropriate miticide. ZYMOX requires no cleaning of the ear before or during use, making routine ear care easier.
What ingredients are in ZYMOX Equine Defense Spray?
The Equine Defense Spray ingredient list includes Purified Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Tripropylene Glycol, Benzyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Isopropyl Myristate, Zinc Gluconate, Lactoperoxidase, Lactoferrin, Lysozyme, Potassium Iodide, Glucose Oxidase, Aloe Vera, Sodium Benzoate, and Benzoic Acid. The three LP3 enzymes plus aloe vera are the functional core of the formula.
Where are ZYMOX products made?
All Pet King Brands products are proudly made in the USA. The formulations are manufactured by Laclede, Inc. for Pet King Brands, Inc. The company has highlighted domestic manufacturing as a point of quality and consistency throughout its more than two decades in business.
What sizes does ZYMOX Otic come in?
ZYMOX Otic Enzymatic Solution is available in 1.25 oz, 4 oz, and 8 oz bottles, giving owners options for single pets or multi-pet and large-dog households. The topical creams are commonly sold in 1 oz sizes. Equine Defense products come in larger formats, such as the 8 oz spray and the 12 oz Skin & Coat Wash, with some products also offered in 1-gallon containers.
How much do ZYMOX Equine Defense products cost?
Pricing varies by retailer, but at one major online pharmacy the ZYMOX Equine Defense Enzymatic Spray (8 oz) is listed at $23.99 for a one-time purchase or $22.79 on AutoShip, and the Equine Defense Skin & Coat Wash (12 oz) is listed at $14.99. Prices and availability differ across veterinary clinics, pet stores, and online sellers.
Is ZYMOX recommended by veterinarians?
Yes. ZYMOX has been trusted by veterinarians for over 25 years, and veterinarians and pet parents have used ZYMOX products to successfully manage ear infections for more than 20 years. Over one million bottles of ZYMOX Otic Ear Solution have been distributed since its introduction, and the brand is carried by veterinary clinics, pet specialty stores, and online retailers.
How do I contact Pet King Brands customer service?
You can reach Pet King Brands toll-free at 888-752-5487 or locally at 630-241-3905, or email [email protected]. Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM CST. The company website, zymox.com, also offers a store locator to find products near you.
