Is Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate better for dogs? What to Know

Is Pepto Bismol® bad for dogs with diarrhea?

After reading about how Pepto Bismol® works, it probably sounds like a good choice for your dog’s diarrhea. Although people can use it safely, Pepto Bismol® should not be your go-to at-home remedy for your dog’s diarrhea. It should only be used under the guidance of your veterinarian. Not only is it not the most effective medication for dogs, there are many other safer alternatives.

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.

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.

Clubs Offering:

Dogs, like people, can be afflicted with stomach problems, including indigestion, diarrhea, and gas. Although severe or prolonged symptoms should always be treated by a veterinarian, minor cases of stomach upset or diarrhea can be cared for at home with “people” medications that are safe for dogs. If symptoms persist or if you’ve never given a food or medication mentioned below to your dog, call your veterinarian.

Household Items That Can Help Treat Your Pet

It’s hard to watch your dog feel uncomfortable, especially if what ails him is as common and simple as an upset stomach. If your dog has diarrhea, he may not be acting like himself and you may want to help him feel better by reaching for the same thing that comforts you when your stomach hurts: Pepto Bismol.

The famously pink over-the-counter medication, Pepto Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is used to treat gastrointestinal upset in humans, and although it may aid in the resolution of diarrhea in dogs in certain situations, it should only be used if directed by a veterinarian and at the appropriate dose, says Dr. Jessica Wallach, a staff doctor at NYC’s Animal Medical Center, adding that it should not be administered long-term.

While Pepto Bismol can work wonders on your stomach, it could cause more harm than good when it comes to your dog’s overall health.