Guaifenesin is a super popular medicine. Robitussin in particular has at least 15 different variations including some formulated for children.
It can be very confusing and even more so when it comes to your precious pet dog.
Here is what’s certain:
Are you wondering if Robitussin can be given to your dog for a cough, mucus, sinus problems or other flu-like symptoms?
Nobody likes to have a family pet that isnt feeling well. Often it seems that pets become sick when it is after-hours, a holiday, or you are out of town with your pet. Of course there is lots of information available online about over-the-counter (OTC) medications, but some of this information is not correct, misinformed, misleading, and even dangerous for your pet.
The only OTC pain medication that you may give your DOG is Aspirin. If your dog is on any other medications, please check with a veterinarian before giving a dose. Aspirin should not be given if your dog is currently taking any steroids (i.e., prednisone) or an NSAID (i.e., Deramaxx, Metacam, Rimadyl, etc.). At most, Aspirin should only be given for 2-3 days, if your dogs pain persists beyond that, please contact your veterinarian.
Remove food and water and offering nothing by mouth for 4 hours. If no more vomiting has occurred, offer small amounts of water, pedialyte or gatorade. Wait approximately an hour and if your pet is able to hold the liquid down, you may offer more liquids. Food should not be offered for 12-24 hours. Then food may be reintroduced in small amounts. If your pet is still unable to keep food down, please contact us. In dogs under 10 pounds, give a small amount (about a teaspoon) of maple syrup or Karo syrup every 2-4 hours while withholding food. This will help prevent hypoglycemia.
For dry, non-productive coughing in dogs, Robitussin DM (Dextromethorphan)–(2mg/mL), can be given. Read all ingredients thoroughly on the package, as some formulations may not contain Dextromethorphan or may contain additional ingredients (ex. Acetaminophen), which should never be given to your pet. A cough can be a indicator of a serious respiratory or heart condition, so if your dogs cough has not improved in 24 hours, please contact your veterinarian.
In the event of a seizure, please remain as calm as possible to reduce additional stress on your pet. Wrap your pet in a blanket (or lay on something soft), lay him/her on their side, and reduce lighting until the seizure stops (usually within 1-3 minutes). DO NOT PUT YOUR FINGERS IN YOUR PETS MOUTH, THEY WILL NOT SWALLOW THEIR TONGUE. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. If the seizure continues for more than 5 minutes, take your pet immediately to the veterinarian.
Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdose:
Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, sleepiness, drooling, anxiousness
Signs of overdose include rapid heartbeat, collapse, incoordination, muscle tremors, seizures, facial swelling, and hives.
FAQ
Is Robitussin OK for dogs?
Can I give my dog Robitussin for kennel cough?
What cough medicine can dogs take?
What does Robitussin do for dogs?