fbpx
Pet Struggles
TRENDING
  • Can Dogs Take Penicillin
  • Best Indestructible Dog Beds
  • Best Grain-Free Dog Foods
No Result
View All Result
  • Cats
    • Cat Backpack
    • Beds
      • Heated Cat Bed
    • Cages
    • Collars
    • Cat-Proof Couch Cover
    • Cosequin For Cats
    • Costumes
    • Dental Treats
    • Cat Door
    • Cat Food
      • Automatic Cat Feeders
      • For Diabetics
      • Dry Kitten Food
      • High Calorie
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Limited Ingredient
      • For Maine Coons
      • For Siamese Cats
      • Sensitive Stomach Cat Food
      • Wet Food for Older Cats
    • Dewormers
      • Kitten Dewormers
    • Flea Collar for Cats
    • Grooming Glove
    • Kitten Shampoo
    • Litter Scoopers
    • Nail Clippers
    • Odor Control Cat Litter
    • Outdoor Playpen
    • Pepcid For Cats
    • Probiotics for Cats
    • Top Entry Litter Box
    • Cat Tags
    • Toothpaste for Cats
    • Cat Trees for Large Cats
  • Dogs
    • Beds
      • For Boxers
      • For Bulldogs
      • For Dachshunds
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Great Danes
      • For Greyhounds
      • Indestructible Beds
      • For Labs
      • For Mastiffs
      • For Schnauzers
      • For Yorkies
    • Brushes
      • For Australian Shepherds
      • For Boxers
      • For Corgis
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Havanese
      • For Huskies
      • For Labs
      • For Maltese
      • For Pitbulls
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • For Shih Tzus
      • For Short Hair
    • Clippers
      • For Thick Coats
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Miniature Schnauzers
      • For Poodles
    • Collars
      • For Dobermans
      • Martingale Collars
      • For Pitbulls
      • Training Collar For German Shepherd
    • Crates
      • For Chihuahuas
      • For Separation Anxiety
      • For Yorkies
      • For Goldendoodles
      • Husky Kennels
      • For Mastiffs
      • Pitbull Cages
      • Plastic Dog Crates
      • Soft Crates
    • Food
      • For American Bulldogs
      • For Beagles
      • For Blue Heelers
      • For Boston Terrier Puppies
      • For Boxer Puppies
      • For Cane Corsos
      • For Chihuahuas
      • For Corgis
      • For Corgi Puppies
      • For Dachshunds
      • Dry Dog Food For Havanese
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Short Haired Pointers
      • For Golden Retrievers
      • For Golden Retriever Puppies
      • Grain-Free
      • High Fiber Food For Anal Gland Problems
      • For Husky Puppies
      • Hypoallergenic
      • For IBD
      • Natural Brands
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • To Prevent Gas
      • For Pugs
      • For Seizures
      • For Sensitive Skin
      • For Shedding
      • For Shichons
      • For Shih Tzus
      • For Rottweiler Puppies
      • Royal Canin vs. Blue Buffalo
      • Taste Of The Wild vs. Blue Buffalo
      • Victor Dog Food vs. Diamond Naturals
      • For Yeast Infections
      • For Yorkies
    • Harnesses
      • For Beagles
      • For Bulldogs
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Large Breeds
      • For Small Breeds
    • Leashes
      • For Pitbulls
      • Retractable
      • For Running
    • Shampoo and Conditioner
      • Antibacterial Antifungal Dog Shampoo
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Golden Retrievers
      • For Husky’s
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Oatmeal
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • For Puppies
      • Waterless
    • Toys
      • For Border Collies
      • For Corgis
      • For Pitbulls
      • For Teething Puppies
      • For Blind Dogs
      • Tug Toys
  • Blog
    • Cat Breeds for Kids
    • Cat Names
      • For Black Cats
      • For White Cats
      • For Siamese Cats
    • Crating Your Dog While at Work
    • Do Bark Collars Work? 
    • Dog Names
      • For Chihuahuas
      • Harry Potter Names
      • For Hunting Dogs
      • Spanish Names
    • How to Get Rid of Fleas on Newborn Puppies
    • How to Remove a Tick from a Dog
    • Potty Training A Puppy With A Bell
    • Smartest Dog Breeds
  • About Us
SUBSCRIBE
  • Cats
    • Cat Backpack
    • Beds
      • Heated Cat Bed
    • Cages
    • Collars
    • Cat-Proof Couch Cover
    • Cosequin For Cats
    • Costumes
    • Dental Treats
    • Cat Door
    • Cat Food
      • Automatic Cat Feeders
      • For Diabetics
      • Dry Kitten Food
      • High Calorie
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Limited Ingredient
      • For Maine Coons
      • For Siamese Cats
      • Sensitive Stomach Cat Food
      • Wet Food for Older Cats
    • Dewormers
      • Kitten Dewormers
    • Flea Collar for Cats
    • Grooming Glove
    • Kitten Shampoo
    • Litter Scoopers
    • Nail Clippers
    • Odor Control Cat Litter
    • Outdoor Playpen
    • Pepcid For Cats
    • Probiotics for Cats
    • Top Entry Litter Box
    • Cat Tags
    • Toothpaste for Cats
    • Cat Trees for Large Cats
  • Dogs
    • Beds
      • For Boxers
      • For Bulldogs
      • For Dachshunds
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Great Danes
      • For Greyhounds
      • Indestructible Beds
      • For Labs
      • For Mastiffs
      • For Schnauzers
      • For Yorkies
    • Brushes
      • For Australian Shepherds
      • For Boxers
      • For Corgis
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Havanese
      • For Huskies
      • For Labs
      • For Maltese
      • For Pitbulls
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • For Shih Tzus
      • For Short Hair
    • Clippers
      • For Thick Coats
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Miniature Schnauzers
      • For Poodles
    • Collars
      • For Dobermans
      • Martingale Collars
      • For Pitbulls
      • Training Collar For German Shepherd
    • Crates
      • For Chihuahuas
      • For Separation Anxiety
      • For Yorkies
      • For Goldendoodles
      • Husky Kennels
      • For Mastiffs
      • Pitbull Cages
      • Plastic Dog Crates
      • Soft Crates
    • Food
      • For American Bulldogs
      • For Beagles
      • For Blue Heelers
      • For Boston Terrier Puppies
      • For Boxer Puppies
      • For Cane Corsos
      • For Chihuahuas
      • For Corgis
      • For Corgi Puppies
      • For Dachshunds
      • Dry Dog Food For Havanese
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Short Haired Pointers
      • For Golden Retrievers
      • For Golden Retriever Puppies
      • Grain-Free
      • High Fiber Food For Anal Gland Problems
      • For Husky Puppies
      • Hypoallergenic
      • For IBD
      • Natural Brands
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • To Prevent Gas
      • For Pugs
      • For Seizures
      • For Sensitive Skin
      • For Shedding
      • For Shichons
      • For Shih Tzus
      • For Rottweiler Puppies
      • Royal Canin vs. Blue Buffalo
      • Taste Of The Wild vs. Blue Buffalo
      • Victor Dog Food vs. Diamond Naturals
      • For Yeast Infections
      • For Yorkies
    • Harnesses
      • For Beagles
      • For Bulldogs
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Large Breeds
      • For Small Breeds
    • Leashes
      • For Pitbulls
      • Retractable
      • For Running
    • Shampoo and Conditioner
      • Antibacterial Antifungal Dog Shampoo
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Golden Retrievers
      • For Husky’s
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Oatmeal
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • For Puppies
      • Waterless
    • Toys
      • For Border Collies
      • For Corgis
      • For Pitbulls
      • For Teething Puppies
      • For Blind Dogs
      • Tug Toys
  • Blog
    • Cat Breeds for Kids
    • Cat Names
      • For Black Cats
      • For White Cats
      • For Siamese Cats
    • Crating Your Dog While at Work
    • Do Bark Collars Work? 
    • Dog Names
      • For Chihuahuas
      • Harry Potter Names
      • For Hunting Dogs
      • Spanish Names
    • How to Get Rid of Fleas on Newborn Puppies
    • How to Remove a Tick from a Dog
    • Potty Training A Puppy With A Bell
    • Smartest Dog Breeds
  • About Us
No Result
View All Result
Pet Struggles
No Result
View All Result
Home Cats Cat Health

Pepcid For Cats

by Dr. Maureen
September 23, 2020
in Cat Health, Cats
two cats smelling a medicine in a mans hand
8
SHARES
16k
VIEWS
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Pepcid is popularly known as famotidine. It is an extra-label drug (not solely used in cats) used in veterinary medicine. It is an H2 (histamine) blocker or antagonist which is used to block histamine receptors in the stomach.

Histamine is produced by the body during allergic reactions which causes swelling, stomach cramping, and spontaneous diarrhea. The H2 receptors in the stomach stimulate the production of stomach acid.

In cases where a cat has ulcers, H2 receptor blockers such as Pepcid are prescribed to reduce the production and pH of stomach acid. This gives time for ulcers to heal and to reduce inflammation. Ulcers can be found both in the stomach and in the intestines.

It is also prescribed as a form of prophylaxis in senior cats suffering from chronic kidney failure (CKD). Pepcid for cats is available as an injectable, tablet, syrup, and as a transdermal gel. It has various side effects and should be given under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian at the correct dosage.

It also interacts with various drugs and becomes ineffective when given together with food. Below we explore the various uses, side effects, and dosage in the use of Pepcid in cats.

What is Pepcid?

As mentioned Pepcid also known as famotidine, Pepcid AC or Pepcid RPD is a histamine receptor blocker. It prevents histamine receptors found in the stomach from stimulating the production of stomach acid.

It is an extra-label drug used by veterinarians for cats in the treatment of stomach ulcers. It is not approved by the FDA for use in animals.

Famotidine (Generic) Tablets

Famotidine (Generic) Tablets

CLICK FOR BEST PRICE
Chewy.com

What is Pepcid used for?

Pepcid is a histamine receptor blocker. Histamine is usually produced in the body during allergic reactions. It is also found in the stomach and is important in stimulating the production of gastric acid in the stomach.

Gastric acid has a low ph and is useful in killing bacteria in the stomach, breaking down of proteins to amino acids, and providing an optimal environment for the functioning of the enzyme known as pepsin.

Increased acid production often leads to corrosion of the protective inner layer of the stomach leading to the formation of ulcers. The presence of bacteria such as Helicobacteur pylori also plays a role by weakening the protective layers allowing the stomach acid to penetrate and injure the inner layer of the stomach forming ulcers.

Ulcers usually affect the stomach as well as the upper parts of the small intestines. Hyperacidity is commonly found in cases of gastritis, oesophagitis, gastric, and esophageal acid reflux.

Pepcid is prescribed in such situations to reduce the production of the gastric acid to give time for the ulcers to heal and reduce inflammation. Ulcers are usually accompanied by symptoms such as:

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • In appetence
  • Blood tinged stool or at time dark stool
  • Stomach pain or cramps
  • Diarrhea

Pepcid is also prescribed as a form of prophylaxis. This is in cases of chronic kidney failure common in senior cats. Kidney failure causes a decrease in platelet function which can lead to internal bleeding from the ulcers.

Patients suffering from chronic kidney failure are also prescribed long term non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which often lead to stomach ulcers. The presence of Helicobacteur pylori bacteria also increases the risk of occurrence of peptic ulcers.

In such situations, Pepcid is prescribed to lower the production of gastric acid to slow down or prevent ulcer formation.

What are the side effects of Pepcid?

Cat looking at

Pepcid is available in the form of a transdermal gel, injectable, tablets, and syrup. Though an extra-label drug, veterinarians prescribe it at a dosage of 0.25 – 0.5 mg/lb or 0.5 – 1mg/kg every twelve to twenty-four hours.

Pepcid has serious adverse side effects and should be used under the strict guidance of a registered veterinarian. Common side effects observed while in use include:

  • Vomiting
  • Restlessness
  • Redness of the mouth or ears
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Collapse and death

If your cat has a known allergy to Pepcid other drugs such as cimetidine, ranitidine and nizatidine can be prescribed. They however have a lesser duration of action and are less potent. Common allergic signs include:

  • Hives
  • Swollen face
  • Diarrhea
  • Scratching
  • Vomiting
  • Pale gums
  • Shock
  • seizures
  • Coma

Pepcid should also not be used together with drugs such as:

  • Digoxin
  • Sucralfate
  • Ketooconazole
  • Metoclopromide
  • Antiacid

It should also be used with care in pregnant and nursing cats. It may also cause weight gain therefore should be used with precaution in cats with heart disease and liver failure. Storage should be in a cool dark place.

In case of a missed dose, the next dose should be taken at the appropriate time or as soon as one remembers. If not taken signs may recur. 

Famotidine (Generic) Tablets

Famotidine (Generic) Tablets

CLICK FOR BEST PRICE
Chewy.com

Conclusion

Pepcid is an extra-label drug used in veterinary medicine for the treating of peptic ulcers in cases such as esophageal and gastric acid reflux, peptic ulcers, parvovirus, and gastritis.

It is also prescribed to prevent the formation of ulcers in cats suffering from chronic kidney failure which is common. Pepcid works by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach which stimulate secretion of gastric acid in the stomach.

This allows time for the ulcers to heal and also in reducing inflammation. Pepcid should be given under the strict guidance of a registered veterinarian. The recommended dosage is 0.5 to 1 mg/kg every 12 to 24 hours.

Overdosing and underdosing can lead to adverse side effects which can be fatal. Pepcid should not be given together with food as it reduces its effectiveness. It should also be given two hours before or after with other medications to avoid the interaction.

It is also discouraged in pregnant cats or those who are allergic to the drug. Cats suffering from heart failure or liver failure should be prescribed under the strict guidance of a veterinarian as it causes weight gain and impaired metabolism respectively which is detrimental to the health of the cat.

ShareTweetPin4
Dr. Maureen

Dr. Maureen

Dr. Maureen is a qualified and registered veterinary surgeon and an epidemiologist. With over 6 years of experience in Veterinary Medicine as well as 4 years of experience as a researcher, Maureen provides informative and well researched articles making her a valued member of the Pet Struggles team!

Related Posts

Cat laying behind its bowl of food
Cats

Best Diabetic Cat Food

Beds & Furniture

Cat-Proof Couch Cover

scoop in a litter box
Cats

Best Litter Scooper In [2021]

Cat in a bed all cosy
Beds & Furniture

Best Cat Beds Reviewed in [2021]

Siamese cat on its side
Cat Nutrition

Best Siamese Cat Food Reviewed in [2021]

cat getting worming treatment put on it
Cats

Best Cat Dewormer [2021]

Next Post
Husky-Upside-Down

4 Best Dog Beds for Huskies

ADVERTISEMENT

Recent Reviews

woman brushing her dog

Top-Rated Dog Brushes

Choosing the best dog brush for your furry companion is easy $8.99
pomeranian in a dog crate

Top-Rated Crates

Read through our ratings of the best dog crates before making $37.99
Cat laying behind its bowl of food

Top-Rated Diabetic Cat Food

Finding the right diet to help your cat suffering from diabetes $12.55

Our #1 Recommended Dog Food

1. Ollie

$$$$
Check Price
50% Off First Box
2. Wellness Core

$$$
Check Price
30% Off Chewy.com
3. American Journey

$$
Check Price
30% Off Chewy.com
4. Taste Of The Wild

$$$
Check Price
30% Off Chewy.com

Disclaimer

PetStruggles.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. For more information, please read our privacy policy.

  • Cats
  • Dogs
  • Blog
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Nutrition
  • Dog Supplies
Pet Struggles

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Cookies Policy
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2019-2020 Pet Struggles - Made with love by pet lovers.

No Result
View All Result
  • Cats
    • Cat Backpack
    • Beds
      • Heated Cat Bed
    • Cages
    • Collars
    • Cat-Proof Couch Cover
    • Cosequin For Cats
    • Costumes
    • Dental Treats
    • Cat Door
    • Cat Food
      • Automatic Cat Feeders
      • For Diabetics
      • Dry Kitten Food
      • High Calorie
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Limited Ingredient
      • For Maine Coons
      • For Siamese Cats
      • Sensitive Stomach Cat Food
      • Wet Food for Older Cats
    • Dewormers
      • Kitten Dewormers
    • Flea Collar for Cats
    • Grooming Glove
    • Kitten Shampoo
    • Litter Scoopers
    • Nail Clippers
    • Odor Control Cat Litter
    • Outdoor Playpen
    • Pepcid For Cats
    • Probiotics for Cats
    • Top Entry Litter Box
    • Cat Tags
    • Toothpaste for Cats
    • Cat Trees for Large Cats
  • Dogs
    • Beds
      • For Boxers
      • For Bulldogs
      • For Dachshunds
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Great Danes
      • For Greyhounds
      • Indestructible Beds
      • For Labs
      • For Mastiffs
      • For Schnauzers
      • For Yorkies
    • Brushes
      • For Australian Shepherds
      • For Boxers
      • For Corgis
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Havanese
      • For Huskies
      • For Labs
      • For Maltese
      • For Pitbulls
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • For Shih Tzus
      • For Short Hair
    • Clippers
      • For Thick Coats
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Miniature Schnauzers
      • For Poodles
    • Collars
      • For Dobermans
      • Martingale Collars
      • For Pitbulls
      • Training Collar For German Shepherd
    • Crates
      • For Chihuahuas
      • For Separation Anxiety
      • For Yorkies
      • For Goldendoodles
      • Husky Kennels
      • For Mastiffs
      • Pitbull Cages
      • Plastic Dog Crates
      • Soft Crates
    • Food
      • For American Bulldogs
      • For Beagles
      • For Blue Heelers
      • For Boston Terrier Puppies
      • For Boxer Puppies
      • For Cane Corsos
      • For Chihuahuas
      • For Corgis
      • For Corgi Puppies
      • For Dachshunds
      • Dry Dog Food For Havanese
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Short Haired Pointers
      • For Golden Retrievers
      • For Golden Retriever Puppies
      • Grain-Free
      • High Fiber Food For Anal Gland Problems
      • For Husky Puppies
      • Hypoallergenic
      • For IBD
      • Natural Brands
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • To Prevent Gas
      • For Pugs
      • For Seizures
      • For Sensitive Skin
      • For Shedding
      • For Shichons
      • For Shih Tzus
      • For Rottweiler Puppies
      • Royal Canin vs. Blue Buffalo
      • Taste Of The Wild vs. Blue Buffalo
      • Victor Dog Food vs. Diamond Naturals
      • For Yeast Infections
      • For Yorkies
    • Harnesses
      • For Beagles
      • For Bulldogs
      • For French Bulldogs
      • For German Shepherds
      • For Large Breeds
      • For Small Breeds
    • Leashes
      • For Pitbulls
      • Retractable
      • For Running
    • Shampoo and Conditioner
      • Antibacterial Antifungal Dog Shampoo
      • For Goldendoodles
      • For Golden Retrievers
      • For Husky’s
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Oatmeal
      • For Pomeranians
      • For Poodles
      • For Puppies
      • Waterless
    • Toys
      • For Border Collies
      • For Corgis
      • For Pitbulls
      • For Teething Puppies
      • For Blind Dogs
      • Tug Toys
  • Blog
    • Cat Breeds for Kids
    • Cat Names
      • For Black Cats
      • For White Cats
      • For Siamese Cats
    • Crating Your Dog While at Work
    • Do Bark Collars Work? 
    • Dog Names
      • For Chihuahuas
      • Harry Potter Names
      • For Hunting Dogs
      • Spanish Names
    • How to Get Rid of Fleas on Newborn Puppies
    • How to Remove a Tick from a Dog
    • Potty Training A Puppy With A Bell
    • Smartest Dog Breeds
  • About Us

Copyright © 2019-2020 Pet Struggles - Made with love by pet lovers.