INFORMATION LIBRARY

What Is Bismuth Subsalicylate?

Bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate, Pepto Bismol) is a medicine used in pets to treat stomach issues such as diarrhea, loose stool, nausea, and heartburn. It also helps protect the lining of the stomach and intestines in dogs and sometimes cats.

It belongs to the aspirin (salicylate) family. Veterinarians may also prescribe it to treat Helicobacter bacteria, which can cause ulcers in your pet’s stomach.

This medicine is not FDA-approved for animals. Never give it to your pet unless directed by your veterinarian.

Availability

• Available over the counter (OTC)
• Forms include oral paste, liquid, tablets, and caplets
• Even veterinary-labeled products are not FDA-approved

How Is It Used in Pets?

Bismuth subsalicylate is available in liquid, chewable tablets, and pills. Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions for dosage.

• Dose for pets is different from human label
• Can be given with or without food
• Do not give to cats unless advised by a vet
• Shake liquid well before use
• Store liquid in refrigerator to improve taste
• Do not mix with milk

Benefits

• Available without prescription
• Helps improve symptoms within 24 hours

Monitoring & Follow-Up

Monitor your pet for improvement and side effects.

• Fecal testing may be required if symptoms continue
• Fluids and electrolytes may need monitoring

Warnings

• Do not use if allergic to bismuth or aspirin
• Do not use in pregnant or nursing pets
• Avoid use in pets with bleeding disorders or ulcers
• Use extreme caution in cats and young or sick animals

Side Effects

• Tongue discoloration: May turn black temporarily
• Stool color change: May appear gray-black or green-black
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stool

If stool appears black and tarry, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Drug Interactions

Tell your veterinarian about all medications your pet is taking. This product may interact with:

• ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril, enalapril)
• Anticoagulants (e.g., heparin, warfarin)
• Aspirin
• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
• NSAIDs (e.g., carprofen)
• Tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline)

Important: Separate tetracycline antibiotics and this medicine by a few hours.

Safety for Pet Owners

• Keep out of reach of children
• Wash hands after use
• Avoid handling if allergic

Overdose & Missed Dose

• High doses can be toxic, especially for cats
• Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and neurological issues
• Contact a veterinarian immediately in case of overdose
• Do not double doses if one is missed

Storage

• Store tablets at room temperature, away from light
• Keep liquid refrigerated
• Do not freeze the liquid form