Helping Horse Owners Make Informed Decisions
Zymox® Topical Spray or Cream for HotSpots by Pet King Brands

Zymox by Pet King Brands

Zymox® Topical Spray or Cream for HotSpots by Pet King Brands Zymox

Need vet-recommended dog grooming for your pet?

Reviewed by Ann Pruitt, InfoHorse.com · Updated May 2026
ZYMOX enzymatic ear and dermatology pet care product lineup by Pet King Brands
ZYMOX enzymatic ear and dermatology pet care product lineup by Pet King Brands
ZymoxSprayAd
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 enzymatic ear and dermatology pet care product lineup by Pet King Brands
ZYMOX enzymatic ear and dermatology pet care product lineup by Pet King Brands

What ZYMOX Topical Cream and Spray actually do

ZYMOX® Topical Cream and ZYMOX® Topical Spray are enzyme-based skin treatments built for wound care and the everyday irritations that plague horses, dogs and cats — hot spots, cuts, abrasions, girth sores, scratches, and itchy or sensitive skin. They are formulated to soothe and support the skin while the body's own defenses do the healing, without antibiotics, steroids or harsh chemicals. The cream is meant for small, targeted areas while the spray covers larger sections of the body and legs, so an owner can match the format to the problem.

ZYMOX enzymatic skin care products for hot spots and irritated pet skin
ZYMOX enzymatic skin care products for hot spots and irritated pet skin

Who makes ZYMOX — the Pamela Bosco story

ZYMOX® is the flagship line of Pet King Brands, founded in 1998 by President and Founder Pamela K. Bosco. The brand was born from a personal mission: her German Shepherd, Elizabeth, suffered from chronic ear infections, and Pamela set out to find an antibiotic-free answer. Working with her brother, bioscientist Michael Pellico, she developed the first enzyme-based pet health care products and revolutionized how owners treat ear, skin and oral conditions. More than 25 years later the company operates as PKB Animal Health Inc. out of Austin, Texas.

ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Ear Wipes by Pet King Brands
ZYMOX Advanced Enzymatic Ear Wipes by Pet King Brands

The LP3 Enzyme System inside every bottle

At the core of every ZYMOX product is the patented LP3 Enzyme System, a trio of naturally derived enzymes that has been refined over 40-plus years of enzyme research. Lactoperoxidase (found in milk) disrupts the metabolic processes of harmful bacteria; Lysozyme (sourced from egg whites) attacks and breaks apart bacterial cell walls; and Lactoferrin binds the iron that microbes need, starving harmful bacteria and fungi so they cannot reproduce. Because the enzymes target only single-celled organisms, they leave healthy cells and the skin's natural flora untouched — which is why there is no risk of antibiotic resistance.

ZYMOX skin care product category for wounds cuts and hot spots
ZYMOX skin care product category for wounds cuts and hot spots

Why the "no pre-cleaning" protocol matters

Unlike traditional treatments that demand scrubbing or antiseptic prep before application, ZYMOX topicals are designed to be applied with no pre-cleaning. The enzymes actually thrive where organic matter like pus or wax is present, so disturbing a sore wound first is unnecessary — rinsing with water is fine, but no cleaning or antiseptic agent is needed. That means fewer painful touches, less stress for the animal, and a once-a-day routine that owners can actually keep up with. The result is a gentle, non-drying product safe enough for everyday use on sensitive or recurring skin.

Built for horses, livestock and household pets
The same enzyme science extends across the ZYMOX® Equine Defense® line, which includes the Equine Defense Enzyme Topical Cream and Topical Spray alongside the Advanced Formula Shampoo ($18.49) and Advanced Formula Leave-On Conditioner ($17.49) with soothing Avena Sativa (oat) extract. These products are antibiotic- and steroid-free, so a competition horse will test clean, and they are safe for horses of all ages as well as livestock. For companion animals, the broader ZYMOX catalog spans Ear Care, Skin Care, Oral Care (Oratene® Brushless Oral Care), and dedicated formulas for Cats & Kittens.

How to buy ZYMOX and reach the company

ZYMOX® products are sold directly at zymox.com and through a wide network of veterinarians, pet specialty retailers, online retailers and farm-and-feed stores; the site's Store Locator, Online Retailers and Vet Locator tools help owners find the nearest source. All Pet King Brands products are proudly made in the USA and backed by a Satisfaction Guarantee. Customer service can be reached toll-free at or, Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30 PM (CST), or by mail at PKB Animal Health Inc., 8727 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin, TX 78757.

Share This Solution
The Solution Section (FAQ)
What is Zymox and what does it treat?
Zymox® by Pet King Brands is a line of enzyme-based topical dermatology and oral care products for pets. The Zymox® Topical Cream and Spray are made for hot spots, wound care, and other common skin conditions such as allergic skin, while the company's flagship products are the Zymox® Ear line.
How does the LP3 Enzyme System work?
LP3 is a patented combination of naturally occurring enzymes that work synergistically to inhibit, split, and destroy offending bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses, making it both antibacterial and antifungal. The enzymes only target invading single-celled organisms, so healthy cells are unaffected. Because the action is enzymatic, bacteria don't develop resistance against it the way they can with antibiotics.
How do I apply Zymox Topical Cream or Spray to a hot spot?
Zymox® can be applied once a day as needed with no pre-cleaning or scrubbing of the skin, because the LP3 Enzyme System reacts with infectious pus and debris to form its antimicrobial properties and naturally clean the area. It is safe, gentle, and non-toxic, and worry-free if your pet licks the application site. Both the Cream and Spray also contain hydrocortisone for added inflammation relief.
Does it matter whether the skin infection is bacterial, fungal, or yeast?
No. Whether the issue is bacterial, fungal, or yeast, Zymox® can be applied directly because the LP3 Enzyme System reacts with the infectious material to disinfect the affected skin. The product is also used to help with conditions such as ringworm, impetigo, and yeast infections.
How do I reach hard-to-treat spots like skin folds?
The Zymox® Topical Cream features a catheter tip designed for hard-to-reach applications such as skin folds, letting you target the exact area that needs the soothing benefits of Zymox®.
Is there a Zymox bathing product for itchy, inflamed skin?
Yes. The Zymox® Shampoo and Conditioning Rinse for Itchy Inflamed Skin are made specifically to soothe hot, itchy skin. They use the LP3 Enzyme System with added Vitamin D3 to relieve surface irritations and hydrate the skin, with no harsh detergents, steroids, or petroleum by-products, and they are gentle enough for puppies and kittens.
Who makes Zymox and why are enzymes a safer choice?
Zymox® is made by Pet King Brands, founded in 1998 by president Pamela Bosco, with its patented enzyme formulation developed by bioscientist Michael Pellico. Enzymes are naturally occurring catalysts that won't irritate a pet's sensitive or raw skin and are non-toxic for pets, people, and the environment, which is why owners seeking products without harsh chemicals or antibiotics turn to the line.
How can I learn more or find Zymox products?
You can learn more about the full Zymox® product line, including the Topical Cream and Spray, Shampoo, Conditioning Rinse, and Ear products, at https://www.zymox.com, or reach Pet King Brands by phone at 888-752-5847. The team can point you to the right product for your pet's skin or ear needs.
What is ZYMOX Topical Cream and Spray used for?
ZYMOX Topical Cream and Topical Spray are enzyme-based skin treatments for wound care and common skin conditions including hot spots, cuts, abrasions, allergic and itchy skin, girth sores and scratches. The cream is intended for small, targeted areas, while the spray is better for covering larger sections such as the body and legs. Both work without antibiotics, steroids or harsh chemicals.
Who makes ZYMOX?
ZYMOX is the flagship brand of Pet King Brands, which today operates as PKB Animal Health Inc. The company was founded in 1998 by President and Founder Pamela K. Bosco. It is headquartered in Austin, Texas.
How did ZYMOX get started?
The brand began with Elizabeth, a German Shepherd who suffered from chronic ear infections. Her struggle inspired Pamela K. Bosco to find an antibiotic-free solution, and together with her brother, bioscientist Michael Pellico, she developed the first enzyme-based pet health care products. That breakthrough became the foundation of ZYMOX in 1998.
What is the LP3 Enzyme System?
The LP3 Enzyme System is the proprietary technology at the core of every ZYMOX and Oratene product. It combines three naturally derived enzymes that work synergistically to provide antimicrobial protection against bacteria, fungi and viruses. It has been refined through more than 40 years of enzyme research and is positioned as a trusted alternative to antibiotics.
What are the three enzymes in the LP3 Enzyme System?
The three enzymes are Lactoperoxidase, Lysozyme and Lactoferrin. Lactoperoxidase, found in milk, works with hydrogen peroxide to disrupt the metabolic processes of harmful bacteria. Lysozyme, sourced from egg whites, attacks and breaks apart bacterial cell walls, while Lactoferrin binds iron to starve harmful bacteria and fungi so they cannot reproduce.
Does ZYMOX contain antibiotics or steroids?
No. ZYMOX skin and topical products are antibiotic-free and steroid-free, relying instead on the natural LP3 Enzyme System. Because there are no steroids, a competition or performance horse treated with ZYMOX Equine Defense will test clean.
Why don't I need to clean the area before applying ZYMOX?
ZYMOX topicals are designed with a no pre-cleaning protocol because the enzymes actually thrive in environments where organic matter like pus or wax is present, which enhances their antimicrobial activity. Rinsing with water is allowed, but no cleaning or antiseptic agent is necessary beforehand. This means fewer painful touches and less stress for the animal.
How often should ZYMOX be applied?
ZYMOX products generally need to be applied only once a day. This simple daily regimen makes it easier for owners to stay consistent and promotes a calm, stress-free experience for both the pet and the owner. The reduced handling is especially helpful for animals with painful skin or ear conditions.
Is ZYMOX safe for daily and long-term use?
Yes. Because the enzymes are non-reactive, natural and non-toxic, ZYMOX is safe for daily use even on sensitive skin or recurring conditions such as allergies. The products are non-drying and target only harmful single-celled organisms, preserving the natural balance of the skin and minimizing the risk of irritation.
Can ZYMOX be used on horses?
Yes. The ZYMOX Equine Defense line is built specifically for horses and livestock, offering enzymatic relief for hide and hoof conditions. It includes the Equine Defense Enzyme Topical Cream and Topical Spray for wounds, cuts, scratches and irritated skin, plus an Advanced Formula Shampoo and Leave-On Conditioner. The products are safe for horses of all ages.
What is in the ZYMOX Equine Defense Shampoo and Conditioner?
The ZYMOX Equine Defense Advanced Formula Shampoo and Advanced Formula Leave-On Conditioner are built on the same LP3 Enzyme System and add Avena Sativa, also known as oat extract. The oat extract helps aid in healing itchy, raw, dry skin, making the formulas extra beneficial for horses and livestock with very dry, irritated skin.
What other products does ZYMOX make?
Beyond skin and topical care, ZYMOX offers a full range of Ear Care products, including Otic Enzymatic Solutions and Advanced Ear Wipes, plus Oral Care under the Oratene Brushless Oral Care line. There are dedicated formulas for Cats & Kittens, as well as specialty products for birds, small animals, exotics and reptiles. Many products are also available in veterinarian sizes.
Are ZYMOX products made in the USA?
Yes. All Pet King Brands products are proudly made in the USA. Each formula is produced to high standards of quality and safety and is free of harmful chemicals and allergens.
How does ZYMOX avoid antibiotic resistance?
The enzymes in the LP3 Enzyme System target only harmful, single-celled organisms while leaving healthy cells and natural flora untouched. Because they do not work the way antibiotics do, there is no risk of bacterial resistance developing, which is increasingly common with repeated antibiotic treatments. This precision is what allows the products to be used safely over the long term.
How much do ZYMOX products cost?
Pricing varies by product and size. Examples from the official store include the ZYMOX Advanced Formula Otic Plus with 1% Hydrocortisone at $33.49, the ZYMOX Otic Enzymatic Solution with 1% Hydrocortisone (1.25 oz) at $28.49, the Equine Defense Advanced Formula Shampoo (12 oz) at $18.49, and the Equine Defense Advanced Formula Leave-On Conditioner (12 oz) at $17.49. All prices exclude tax and shipping.
Where can I buy ZYMOX?
ZYMOX products can be purchased directly at zymox.com or through a wide network of veterinarians, pet specialty retailers, online retailers, and farm-and-feed stores. The website offers a Store Locator, an Online Retailers list, and a Vet Locator to help you find the nearest source. Purchases are backed by a Satisfaction Guarantee.
How do I contact ZYMOX customer service?
You can reach ZYMOX customer service toll-free at 888.752.5487 or at 630.241.3905, Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 4:30 PM (CST). Mail can be sent to PKB Animal Health Inc., 8727 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin, TX 78757. There is also a contact form available on zymox.com.

Contact Zymox by Pet King Brands

Call Website
Ann Pruitt
Contact Ann Pruitt
InfoHorse.com