Famotidine for dogs is an antacid medication that reduces the production of stomach acid. It is most commonly prescribed when a dog is suspected of having a gastric ulcer or feels nauseous because of kidney disease.
Famotidine is perhaps better known under the trade name of Pepcid.
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What is Famotidine for Dogs?
Famotidine for dogs is a relatively safe medication that is available over the counter. It is the more-sophisticated than its forerunners cimetidine and ranitidine and has fewer side effects.
Although an antacid medication, it works in a different manner to traditional antacids that form a barrier lining over the stomach wall.
Famotidine Vs Ranitidine!
Famotidine for dogs and ranitidine both belong to the same family of drugs, the H2-receptor antagonists. However, famotidine wins out in the sophistication stakes and has the advantage of being more potent. It’s also less likely than ranitidine, to interact with other medications
But keep in mind that all drugs have the potential to interact. If your dog is already on treatment, always check with your vet before giving famotidine.
Zantac Vs Pepcid!
Zantac is to ranitidine, what Pepcid is to famotidine.
Zantac is the trade name for the generic drug ranitidine. In the same way, Pepcid is the trade name for the generic drug famotidine.
Is Pepcid for Dogs the Same as Famotidine?
Yep! That’s right. Famotidine is the drug name and the active ingredient.
The commercially available version of famotidine is manufactured under the name of Pepcid. So when you buy a pack of Pepcid, you are in fact purchasing famotidine.
What About Pepcid AC for Dogs
Both Pepcid and Pepcid AC contain the active ingredient famotidine. Both formulations are used in the same way.
However, Pepcid can contain other additional antacids (for example Pepcid Complete contains calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide). Whereas Pepcid AD is famotidine in a chewable tablet form, with the addition of other forms of antacid.
Pepcid 20 mg
Pepcid products are widely available over the counter at pharmacies. If your vet has recommended a famotidine product for your pet, a good starting point is Pepcid 20mg. An example of how much to give is one 20mg tablet to a 40kg Labrador.
So, What is Famotidine used for in Dogs?
Famotidine for dogs is used to control stomach acid. In people, the condition we most associate with this is heartburn.
In dogs famotidine is prescribed when a gastric ulcer is suspected, the dog is nauseous, or where acid-reflux into the esophagus is suspected.
Health problems which can cause nausea or gastric ulcers include:
How Does Famotidine 20 mg Work?
Famotidine for dogs belongs to a family of drugs called H2-receptor antagonists. This simply means it inhibits acid secretion in the stomach.
Famotidine for dogs works by blocking the signals to produce stomach acid. It does this by blocking entry to the receptor cells in the stomach lining, which are normally activated by histamine.
This is like putting the wrong key in a door lock. When the keyhole is already occupied, the correct key can’t fit in and therefore doesn’t turn the lock.
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How Much Should Max Have? Famotidine Dosage for Dogs
Famotidine for dogs is considered a safe medication, so there is some leeway in the dosage. The recommended dose is between half to one mg for every kg body weight. Thus a 40-kg Labrador would take one or two famotidine 20mg tablets at a time.
This medication can be given once or twice a day. The vet will recommend an appropriate dosing interval. This depends on what the condition and the severity of the problem.
For example, if the famotidine is to help with appetite, then once a day in the morning is usually sufficient. But if a dog has a severe stomach ulcer, then twice daily is best.
A-ha! Trick question. Pepcid contains famotidine so you are giving one and the same thing.
Pepcid AC Side Effects
Happily, Pepcid is largely side-effect free. Other drugs from this family (such as ranitidine or cimetidine) can slow the absorption of other drugs from the stomach. For this reason, many vets recommend separating doses of ant-acids from other meds by an hour or two.
Strictly speaking, this isn’t necessary for Pepcid, but old habits die hard!
Contraindications! What Dogs Should Stay Away from Famotidine
One reason famotidine is such a popular ant-acid is that it’s largely side-effect free. Unlike other members of the H2 receptor antagonist family, it has few or any interactions with other drugs. This makes it a good option for dogs that are on multiple medications.
The main issues to be aware of is that dogs with kidney disease require a lower dosage. Since a poorly kidney isn’t as efficient at getting rid of waste products, using a higher dose can cause a famotidine build-up in the body.
Also, some experts argue against long-term (weeks to months) use. This is because famotidine makes the stomach less acidic. In turn, this means certain infectious agents could theoretically pose an increased risk to the stomach lining. However, this is rarely a problem and of no concern for short-term or occasional use.
5 Facts You Need to Know About Famotidine for Acid Reflux in Dogs
Famotidine facts in a nutshell.
- Famotidine is available as both a prescription and an over-the-counter product. However, famotidine is not licensed for use in dogs, which means you give it at your own risk.
- Always check with your vet before giving famotidine along with other medications. Although the risk is low, it may alter the absorption of certain drugs and mean they work less effectively.
- Famotidine can be dosed once or twice a day, and it can also be used in cats (although, again, it is not licensed for this species)
- If your dog is vomiting persistently, seek veterinary attention rather than dosing with famotidine. The problem may well be more complex than excess stomach acid. A delayed diagnosis could lead to complications.
- Kidney disease leads to build up of toxins that make the patient feel nauseous. Famotidine can help with this, however, the dose should be reduced as the kidney can struggle to get rid of this medication. Always speak to your vet first before dosing.
Common Questions on Famotidine for Dogs
Page 2
Finding the perfect diet for your dog can be challenging. Often you have to search to find a quality, vet-approved dog food formula that will satisfy your dog’s nutritional needs and taste requirements.
To make things easy for dog owners, we have reviewed premium-quality dog foods that meet high quality and safety standards, and one brand, 4health Dog Food, definitely stood out from the rest.
4Health is a reputable and trustworthy brand that offers wet and dry, adult and puppy formula diets that are full of beneficial and nutritional ingredients that will keep your canine strong, healthy, and happy.
4Health Dog Food Review at a Glance
Veterinarians.org Rating: 4
4Health Dog Food Company Information
4Health dog food is a family-owned, private label brand manufactured for the Tractor Supply Company by Diamond Pet Foods, Inc.
The Tractor Supply Company (in business since 1938) is the largest rural lifestyle store in the US, selling various home, pet, and farming products. On the other hand, founded in 1970, Diamond Pet Foods is a privately-held enterprise owned by Schell and Kampeter.
TSC launched the 4Health premium line of dog food in 2010. With 20% lower prices than most national brands, the company markets this new pet food as budget-friendly and affordable yet supporting optimal health.
Where is 4Health Dog Food Made?
The Tractor Supply Company has over 1000 locations across the USA, but it is based in Brentwood, Tennessee. However, the 4Health Dog Food is manufactured in the three Diamond Pet Food plants located in Meta, Missouri, Lathrop, California, and Gaston, South Carolina.
Most importantly, Diamond’s plants are GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)-certified, and you can find all of the different 4Health dog food and cat formulas across the country in Tractor Supply Company stores.
Types of 4Health Dog Food
4Health offered dry and canned dog food as well as tasty dog treats and snacks. Here is a list of the different 4Health Dog Food formulas:
Where to Buy 4Health Dog Food
4Health Dog Food Formulas
We will thoroughly review the 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula for Adult Dogs and then discuss three other 4Health Lines – the 4Health Original Dog Food, the 4Health Grain Free Dog Food, and the 4Health Special Care Dog Food.
4Health Salmon & Potato Formula for Adult Dogs
Summary: The Salmon & Potato Formula is the most popular 4Health pet food, and with salmon and ocean fish meal as main ingredients (25% crude protein) and 14.0% crude fat, there is a backed-up science behind the diet’s popularity. The salmon and egg products provide protein, and the ocean fish meal and canola oil are rich sources of fats and linoleic omega-6 and linolenic acid omega-3 fatty acids.
The formula includes wholesome ingredients like potatoes, peas, and cracked pearled barley. The potatoes, cracked pearled barley, and millet add carbohydrates and the peas are rich in protein. The formula also includes blueberries, cranberries, spinach, dried kelp, apples, carrots which provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
For a better profile, the formula is enriched with folic acid, riboflavin, biotin, niacin, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D supplement, vitamin E supplement, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), selenium, calcium pantothenate, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, zinc sulfate, copper proteinate, potassium iodide, manganous oxide, iron proteinate, and zinc proteinate.
The 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula has added probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecium), prebiotics (dried chicory root), and digestive enzymes (Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract) for healthy digestion. It also has chondroitin sulfate (100 mg/kg) and glucosamine hydrochloride (300 mg/kg) for joint health and mobility support.
Finally, this dry dog food features Yucca Schidigera extract for better poop quality and less odor and L-carnitine, which speeds up the metabolism, thus supporting lean body and weight management.
Pros
- Salmon as the first ingredient (ethoxyquin-free)
- Warious grains, fruits, and veggies
- Natural flavors and added health-boosting ingredients
- Supports digestion, the immune system, skin, and joint health
- Free from corn, wheat, and soy
Cons
- Relatively low overall fiber content (3%)
- Flaxseed is linked with lower reproductive performances
- Some dogs have trouble digesting peas
Review: We like the diet’s suitability for dogs allergic to traditional protein sources like chicken and beef. We also like the inclusion of antioxidants, probiotics, and joint-friendly compounds. We dislike the use of tomato pomace and flaxseed as poor fiber sources. All in all, we rate the 4Health Salmon & Potato Formula as Best for Adult Dogs.
- No Wheat, No Corn, No Soy
- Salmon is the main ingredient
- Omega Fatty Acids for Skin and Coat
- Healthy Digestion Support
Summary: For their Original Dog Food, 4Health has sourced high-quality meat to ensure your pet can enjoy nutritious protein that is not a poultry by-product nor contains harmful ingredients.
This dog food does not contain corn, soy or wheat, but does contain powerful antioxidants and omega fatty acid for a silky and shiny coat and a healthy immune system. Overall, 4Health Original Dog Food offers a wholesome and beneficial meal for your dog.
Pros
- No wheat, no corn, no soy
- Salmon is the main ingredient
- Omega fatty acids for skin and coat
- Healthy digestion support
Cons
Review: We like the salmon as the first ingredient and added health-boosting compounds. We dislike the use of flaxseed oil. All in all, we rate the 4Health Original Dog Food as the Best for Dogs of All Ages.
- No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
- Species Specific Probiotics for Digestive Support
- Whitefish is the #1 Ingredient
- Omega Fatty Acids for Skin and Coat
Summary: When your pet has a food allergy, finding the right pet food products can be challenging. But, 4Health Pet Food caters to those with a food allergy by offering a grain-free meal option.
With the 4Health Grain Free Dog Food, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog will love its food and is getting the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy. It also contains probiotics that aid digestion, avoid an upset stomach, and help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Pros
- Grain-free formula
- High-quality protein source
- Species-specific probiotics for digestive support
- Rich in omega fatty acids
Cons
- Often out of stock due to high demand
Review: We like the grain-free option, and the use of species-specific probiotics – two factors dogs with allergies can benefit from. We dislike the frequent unavailability. All in all, we rate the 4Health Grain Free Dog Food as the Best for Dogs with Allergies.
- No Corn, Wheat or Soy
- Limited-Ingredient Diet
- Species-Specific Probiotics for Digestive Support
Summary: The Special Care line of 4Health Pet Food is perfect for dogs with dietary needs and could do with some pet health support. The formulas focus on providing healthy and balanced nutrients while supporting optimal health and well-being.
The line includes three different formulas: 4Health Special Care Sensitive Stomach Formula for Adult Dogs, 4Health Special Care Weight Management Formula for Adult Dogs, and 4Health Special Care Sensitive Skin Formula for Adult Dogs
Pros
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- Limited-ingredient diet
- Probiotics for digestive support
- Condition-specific ingredients
Cons
- Negative comments about the bag size
Review: We like the limited selection of ingredients and added condition-specific components. We dislike that some customers complain about the bag size and price. All in all, we rate the 4Health Special Care Dog Food as the Best for Health Support.
Additional 4Health Products
4Health Dog Food Ingredient Analysis
The 4Health Dog Food uses high-quality meat and fat sources (instead of the typical chicken meal and chicken fat), and most importantly, the fish meal is stated to be ethoxyquin-free. Plus, the formulas do not feature GMO ingredients, fillers, and allergens like soy, corn, and wheat.
All preservatives and flavors are natural, and 4Health Dog Food regularly uses additional health-boosting ingredients like omega fatty acids, vitamins, chelated minerals, antioxidants, dietary fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and chondroprotectants.
Last but not least, 4Health Dog Food is not made of organic ingredients, and the meat sources are not free-range grown or wild-caught from pristine waters. There are also questions regarding the use of ground race without stating whether it is brown rice or white rice.
However, the brand offers high-quality and well-paired ingredients or, in simple words, proper nutrition with a reasonable price tag.
4Health Dog Food Recalls: What You Need to Know
Diamond Pet Foods voluntarily recalled 4Health Dog food in May 2012. This was due to the discovery of salmonella contamination on their dog food brands with a best-by date from December 2012 to April 2013.
After a thorough investigation, 4Health Dog Food was not found to have salmonella, but the action was taken as a precaution to protect pets across the country.
Is 4Health Food Right for Your Dog?
Since it is difficult to find a bad review about 4Health Dog Food it is safe to assume that the formula is suitable for your dog’s nutritional and individual needs.
In fact, most dog owners are happy with the variety of 4Health Dog Food options and the premium quality they have experienced with the meat and fish meal options. There are customer reviews reporting that their dog is enjoying better skin and a healthier coat after eating 4Health dog food.
The wholesome food recipes that subtract the artificial additives and leave in all the best bits also make this pet food stand out from the crowd for being premium but affordable.
Our Final Thoughts on 4Health Dog Food
We believe that 4Health Dog Food offers balanced pet food for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds, shapes, and sizes, as well as catering to allergies and dietary needs.
The dog food brand’s overarching goal is to provide quality ingredients and fresh meat that brings a balance of macronutrients to your dog’s diet. This is important for everyday life and making sure your pup stays fit and healthy.
Plus, 4Health Dog Food has a rich range of pet foods and treats, allowing you to choose the option that suits you and your dog best. No matter what formula you decide on, rest assured it is wheat, soy, and corn-free, yet full of healthy and wholesome ingredients.
Sources
(PDF) The role of dietary omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids in the nutrition of dogs and cats: A review (researchgate.net)
Can Dogs Eat Peas? – American Kennel Club (akc.org)
Ethoxyquin: An Antioxidant Used in Animal Feed (hindawi.com)
Feeding your dog salmon can boost its brain power, study finds | London Evening Standard | Evening Standard
Utilisation of supplemented l-carnitine for fuel efficiency, as an antioxidant, and for muscle recovery in Labrador retrievers (nih.gov)