Is Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate better for dogs?

Having tummy trouble is the worst. Humans feel helpless in the face of nausea and the unpleasant symptoms that accompany it. It’s heartbreaking enough when our dogs are ill. You might be unsure of what to give a dog with a stomach bug in order to help him feel better and reduce the symptoms. Let’s look at what you might have on hand and how it can be administered before we answer the question of can you give your dog OTC human medications.

What is Pepto Bismol® and how does it work?

Pepto Bismol® is the well-known pink over-the-counter human medication. It contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate and is commonly used for diarrhea and other digestive issues in people. Pepto Bismol® stimulates fluid and electrolyte absorption and also reduces inflammation. The two main ingredients in Pepto Bismol® and Kaopectate® also have their own jobs:

Bismuth is a chalk-like compound that can help to coat the gastrointestinal tract lining. In people, it reduces Helicobacter, the bacteria that causes stomach inflammation and ulcers.

Subsalicylate decreases diarrhea that may be due to intestinal infections.

Is Pepto Bismol® bad for dogs with diarrhea?

Pepto Bismol® probably sounds like a good option for your dog’s diarrhea after reading about how it functions. Pepto Bismol® should not be your go-to at-home remedy for your dog’s diarrhea, despite the fact that people can use it safely. It must only be used as directed by your veterinarian. There are numerous safer substitutes in addition to the fact that it is not the most efficient medication for dogs.

One of the main ingredients, subsalicylate, can be toxic to dogs. It is an aspirin-like compound, which can be associated with gastric bleeding.

Pepto Bismol® can also cause your dog’s stool to turn black. If this happens, it can be difficult to distinguish this from dark tarry stools (melena). This is worrying because melena signals gastric bleeding, a medical emergency for dogs.

Pepto Bismol(R) tablets can be mistaken for metallic objects on radiographs. If your dog’s signs worsen and they need radiographs, this may lead to unnecessary procedures.

Clubs Offering:

Similar to humans, dogs can experience stomach issues such as indigestion, diarrhea, and gas. Although minor cases of stomach upset or diarrhea can be treated at home with “people” medications that are safe for dogs, severe or prolonged symptoms should always be treated by a veterinarian. Call your veterinarian if symptoms worsen or if you’ve never given your dog any of the foods or medications listed below.

FAQ

Can you give a dog Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate?

Pepto Bismol and Kaopectate contain an aspirin-like substance that may be toxic to dogs, so you should avoid giving them to your dog if they have diarrhea. These substances may also interact with specific drugs, raising blood aspirin levels.

Do vets recommend Pepto Bismol for dogs?

The recommended dose of Pepto-Bismol for dogs is one teaspoon for every 10 pounds, according to Dr Klein. The dog can receive it every 6 to 8 hours, but if the diarrhea persists after a few doses, stop giving the medication and contact your veterinarian.

What is the best medicine to give a dog for diarrhea?

Your veterinarian might advise you to also give your dog some loperamide (Imodium ADTM) if their diarrhoea is particularly bad. This can lessen fluid loss while the dog undergoes the rice-water fast, consumes white rice and acidophilus, and heals on its own.

What’s the difference between Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol?

Kaopectate is a medication used to stop diarrhea; is it the same as Pepto Bismol? It contains subsalicylate of bismuth. This substance is also present in Pepto-Bismol, a different medication for diarrhea and upset stomach.