Diarrhea Dogs Treatment

Diarrhea dogs treatment with Imodium is a common practice that pet owners fall back on when their pets develop diarrhea. It is an easy to use over the counter product that is readily available and not expensive. However, pet owners should be aware that it is not FDA approved for use in animals, even though it is commonly used.

Imodium

Other brand names for Imodium are Imodium AD, Kaopectate, Pepto Diarrhea Control, and Loperamide.

Imodium is a narcotic antidiarrheal which is considered non-addictive. It can be used when your pet has diarrhea.

Imodium reduces secretions in the intestinal tract and allows your pet to start regaining normal bowel movements. In cases of diarrhea that persist in excess of 48 hours, consulting your veterinarian is recommended. Your dog may develop severe dehydration if diarrhea lasts longer than 48 hours.

Dosing Information

Imodium comes in liquid and solid form as capsules and tablets.

Animals that weigh under 20 lbs. should be given the liquid form only. There is a potential of overdosing a small animal when using tablets or capsules.

In liquid form, Imodium is normally dosed at .04mg per lb, 3 to 4 times per day.

In solid form, Imodium is usually dosed at 1 capsule/tablet per 50 lbs.

As with any medication, complete the dosage prescribed by your veterinarian even if your dog seems to be fine. This is to avoid possible relapse and recurring symptoms.

Treatment along with Imodium

Diarrhea dogs treatment with Imodium does help your pet achieve normal bowel functions, you should also encourage your pet to drink fluids.  He needs to replace the liquids that he is losing. You will also need to remove food from his reach until his diarrhea slows down or disappears.

Once your pet starts developing soft stools, your veterinarian will suggest a bland diet to assist healthy bowel functions. Bland starches like white rice, instant mashed potatoes, and pasta should be given to your pet once soft stools develop, however, the foods should be plain. This means no sauce, no butter, and no spices.  The additives will upset your dog’s stomach.

Some bland proteins your pet should be given are low fat cottage cheese, boiled chicken or turkey minus the skin.  You can also give your dog boiled hamburger with the fat completely skimmed off. Baby food jar meats can be be given to your pet, but make sure that there is no onion powder listed as an ingredient. The onion powder may aggravate your dog’s tender digestive tract.  Stopping dog diarrhea won’t be achieved with any kinds of spices.

When Not to Use Imodium for Diarrhea

If you know that your dog is allergic to any sort of opiate or narcotic drug, you should not administer Imodium to your pet.

Dogs with kidney, gastro, liver and any respiratory diseases or conditions should not be given Imodium. Dogs that are pregnant or nursing also should not be given Imodium. 

As with any medication, consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet’s reaction to Imodium. If your pet is already on other medications, your vet should be advised as not all medications interact well with others.

Diarrhea in dogs can usually be treated quite easily, however, keeping your veterinarian in the loop will ensure your pet’s safety and well being.

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