We’ll tell you today if Pepto Bismol works for dogs who have diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort. We’ll explain how to administer Pepto Bismol to a dog and provide the appropriate dosage. Additionally, we will inform you when to use it and when to contact a veterinarian in its place.
You’ve probably heard of Pepto Bismol, the iconic pink drug that you take when you have a mild stomach ache. You may have also wondered, “Can you give a dog Pepto Bismol for digestive issues, too,” if you use Pepto Bismol.
In this article, we’ll examine what Pepto Bismol is, whether giving it to dogs is safe, the recommended dosage, and when not to. It is always safer to consult your veterinarian before giving any medication meant for humans to dogs, including Pepto Bismol.
FDA-approved OTC (over-the-counter) medication Pepto Bismol is intended for human consumption. Dogs can typically take Pepto Bismol, and some veterinarians may even prescribe it for certain conditions. Pepto Bismol has bismuth subsalicylate as the active ingredient. Other names for the substances that contain this ingredient include Kaopectate, Bismatrol, and Castro-Cote. Cats should never be given Pepto Bismol unless a veterinarian has prescribed it. Cats are hypersensitive to any form of salicylate.
In the body, bismuth and subsalicylate separate and serve two purposes for treating digestive distress. To create a buffer against acid, the bismuth coats the lining of the stomach and intestines. Additionally, it forms bonds with the toxins that cause stomach problems. Binding these toxins helps to stop diarrhea.
Subsalicylate is a compound closely related to aspirin. Salicylate slows down intestinal fluid secretions and bowel movements that are too frequent and result in diarrhea. The substance also has mild antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, salicylate is also known to irritate the stomach lining, which can result in ulcers. Furthermore, it also thins the blood which can cause bleeding. Due to this, Pepto Bismol must always be administered in accordance with the suggested doses and duration.
What Is Pepto Bismol?
A prescription drug called Pepto Bismol is used to treat the signs and symptoms of stomach problems. These include heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting.
H2 antagonists are a pair of medications that are combined in Pepto Bismol. One of these drugs blocks the production of stomach acid. The second prevents the stomach from producing too much acid.
Can I Give My Dog Pepto Bismol?
Although Pepto Bismol is generally safe for dogs, you shouldn’t give it to your puppy without first consulting your veterinarian. Without your veterinarian’s approval, never give your dog human over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Your dog’s medical history and conditions are known to your veterinarian, who can determine what is and isn’t safe for your specific puppy.
Because the salicylates in Pepto Bismol may cause gastric bleeding in some dogs, some veterinary experts are reluctant to recommend it. Additionally, because the medication contains bismuth, which typically turns dog poop black, it can be challenging to see any blood in a dog’s stool, which is a sign of gastric bleeding.
Never administer Pepto Bismol or any other product containing bismuth subsalicylate to cats. Bismuth subsalicylate is extremely toxic for cats.
Are There Any Restrictions On Who Can Use Pepto Bismol?
Only animals weighing less than 50 pounds are supposed to take Pepto Bismol. Give this product to children, nursing mothers, pregnant women, people with certain medical conditions, or children. Consult your veterinarian before using this product.
FAQ
Can dogs have Pepto-Bismol chewables?
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. Additionally, if you’ve never administered Pepto-Bismol to your dog before, confirm the dosage with your veterinarian.
How many mg is chewable Pepto?
If you experience any negative side effects, discontinue use and consult a doctor immediately. Active Ingredient/Active MoietyIngredient NameBasis of StrengthStrengthBISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE (UNII: 62TEY51RR1) (SALICYLIC ACID – UNII:O414PZ4LPZ)BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE525 mg in 2
Can I give my dog two Pepto-Bismol tablets?
If you’re wondering whether Pepto-Bismol for dogs is a safe way to settle your dog’s upset stomach, the usual response is “no.” ” Integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby relates how a seemingly harmless Pepto-Bismol tablet nearly necessitated an unnecessary surgery for one of her patients.
How many Pepto-Bismol caplets can I give my dog?
For dogs, 0 mg of Pepto Bismol (or a comparable generic form of bismuth sub- salicylate) is generally regarded as safe. Per kilogram of the dog’s body weight, 25 to 2 ml (0 1 to 0. 9 ml per lb), up to three or four times per day.