What is Famotidine for Cats?

Famotidine

Cats are not that different from humans when it comes to experiencing heartburn and similar conditions. We all know how miserable this can be to experience. Heartburn sends us running for a bottle of antacids to cool the burn and bring relief. Your cat likely has the same feelings when it happens to him or her. Famotidine is the name of a medication that is commonly used to treat digestive problems in cats. If your cat is experiencing problems with appetite, vomiting, or other digestive issues, and your health care provider has diagnosed him with issues related to excessive stomach acid, this is a treatment that you may want to consider. If you’re not familiar with Famotidine, here is everything you need to know about the medication, its safety, dosing, and where to find it.

What is Famotidine?

According to VCA Hospitals, Famotidine is the name for the H2 receptor antagonist found in the brand Pepcid. It s used in the treatment of excessive stomach acid from a variety of health conditions in cats including inflammation from kidney stones, stress inflammation of the esophagus, gastrointestinal ulcers, and acid reflux. It’s the same medication that is used for humans, however, vets may prescribe or recommend the use of this medication for cats, dogs, and other small animals.

Where can you get it and what is the recommended dosage?

You can find Famotidine under the brand Pepcid at several different retailers including pharmacies and grocery stores. The dosage amounts listed on the label are for humans only. When using this medication for your cat, it is vital to speak with your pet’s vet for directions about use in cats. The directions are likely to be much different than what the label recommends. The most common recommendation for dosing cats is the equivalent of 0.22 mg per pound every 12 to 24 hours. It may be difficult to make the conversion from the regular tablets or liquids. Your veterinary health care provider may be able to give you tips on how to more easily make the conversions for dosage accuracy.

How to give your cat Famotidine?

Famotidine is an oral medication that comes in both liquid and tablet form. If you obtain this treatment from your local veterinary hospital, the veterinarian can give it as an intramuscular injection. If giving in liquid or tablet form, it is administered to cats before they eat their first meal of the day. This medication works best on an empty stomach. If your cat cannot tolerate this medication on an empty stomach, it can be given with food as the second-best option. If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as possible. If it is halfway in between when the next dosage is due, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Avoid overdosing on your cat with this medication. Never administered two doses within a few hours of each other.

How long does it take for Famotidine to work?

Famotidine usually begins to work within one or two hours of ingestion. It helps reduce stomach acid in cats. You may not notice any changes immediately. If your cat continues to experience digestive issues, you may need to follow up with your vet to investigate the efficiency of Famotidine as a treatment.

What are the side effects of Famotidine?

Most medications come with some risk of side effects. Although Famotidine is considered a safe medication for cats, in rare cases, reactions can happen. The most common side effects in cats are a low heart rate, lack of appetite, headache, dry mouth, dry skin, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal discomforts. On extremely rare occasions, low white blood cell count can happen. If your cat experiences side effects this medication is in the short-acting classification and will stop working within twenty-four hours of the last dose given. Kidney or liver problems can extend any side effects for longer. In general, famotidine is an antacid that can be used for cats in much the same way people use it.

What are the risks of Famotidine for cats?

According to Pet Meds, Famotidine may be used in pets with kidney, liver disease and who are pregnant or lactating, however, under any of these conditions, your cat should be monitored closely by his or her veterinary doctor. If your pet is taking any other medications, it is advised that you consult with your pet’s health care provider to make sure that there are no potential drug interaction issues before administering Famotidine.

How do you store Famotidine?

Famotidine may lose its effectiveness if it is not properly stored. It’s best to store at room temperature in a dark and dry place. Moisture, light, and extreme temperatures can affect the quality of this medication. This medication should also be stored in a safe and secure place where other pets and children cannot reach it.

Is Famotidine expensive?

Famotidine is usually a reasonably priced treatment for acid reflux. You can find either online or at your local grocery or pharmacy retailer. The average cost of Famotidine is not that expensive. You can usually find a bottle of 30 10 mg tablets for under $6.

Final thoughts

If your cat is having trouble with stomach acid, there is a treatment that you can find at your local grocery store. Famotidine is another name for the popular heartburn brand Pepcid. It is generally considered safe for use in cats when the proper dosages are adhered to. Like people, some cats have delicate digestive systems and they can be just as prone to developing heartburn and similar conditions as their owners. Those of us who have suffered from the misery that excessive stomach acid brings know the value of finding swift and effective relief for the condition. To be on the safe side, consult with your pet’s health care provider before using this medication, follow dosing directions closely, and help your kitty feel better with this handy over-the-counter remedy.

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