Pepcid AC® for Dogs and Cats

Famotidine—known by the brand names Pepcid® and Pepcid AC®—is a common acid reducer used in veterinary medicine to help reduce stomach acid in pets. It’s typically prescribed to treat conditions like gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, and stomach ulcers in dogs and cats. It works by blocking histamine-2 receptors in the stomach lining, which reduces acid production and creates a more favorable environment for healing.

As both a prescription and over-the-counter medication, famotidine is widely used by pet owners under veterinary guidance, especially when managing chronic digestive conditions.

What Is Famotidine?

Famotidine hydrochloride (famotidine HCl) is an H2 receptor antagonist. These medications target receptors in stomach cells that trigger acid release. By blocking these receptors, it slows down gastric acid production.

Key Similar Drugs

• Ranitidine (Zantac®)
• Cimetidine (Tagamet®)
• Nizatidine (Axid®)

Though originally developed for humans, famotidine has proven effective in pets. It can also reduce nausea in dogs by acting on the chemoreceptor trigger zone in the brain, which is responsible for vomiting reflexes.

Famotidine for Dogs

This drug is often prescribed to treat the following canine conditions:

• Gastric and intestinal ulcers
• Acid reflux/GERD
• Megaesophagus (reflux-related damage)
• Stomach inflammation due to kidney disease
• Nausea and poor appetite
• Helicobacter infections
• Mast cell tumors (which release histamine)
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Acute pancreatitis
• Parvoviral enteritis

Because dogs are prone to digestive disruptions from illness, medication, or stress, Pepcid for dogs is a widely relied-upon solution.

Pepcid Dosage for Dogs

The recommended famotidine dosage for dogs is:

• 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg) every 12 to 24 hours

This may vary based on your dog’s size, age, medical condition, and the intended duration of treatment. It can lose effectiveness if used continuously for more than two weeks, so twice-daily dosing is sometimes needed.

Important Tips:

• Give famotidine on an empty stomach for best absorption.
• Complete the full course prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
• Store tablets in a cool, dry place away from light.
• Liquid formulations should be refrigerated.

Famotidine for Cats

Though less commonly discussed, famotidine for cats is also a useful tool in managing feline digestive health. Cats may receive Pepcid to treat:

• Stomach Ulcers
• Esophagitis
• GERD
• Vomiting
• Kidney-related gastritis

As with dogs, dosage depends on body weight and medical conditions. Famotidine dosage for cats should be determined by your veterinarian but is generally similar in scale to dogs (0.25–0.5 mg/lb).

Pepcid for cats is often used short-term or intermittently due to the same diminishing effects observed in dogs.

Forms of Famotidine

Famotidine is available in several forms for veterinary use:

• Tablets: 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg
• Oral powder: 50 mg/5 ml (used for liquid suspension)
• Injectable solution: 20 mg/50 mL or 2 mg/mL

Tablets are most commonly used for dogs, but liquids may be easier to administer—especially in smaller pets or those reluctant to swallow pills.

Famotidine Side Effects in Pets

Though rare, side effects can occur. Watch for:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale gums
• Lethargy
• Trouble walking
• Lack of appetite

If any of these symptoms arise, contact your veterinarian immediately. Famotidine overdoses are uncommon, but caution is important.

Preventing Accidental Ingestion

Pets are curious by nature, and medication exposure can lead to emergencies. Prevent mishaps with these steps:

• Keep pill bottles stored securely and out of reach.
• Avoid using plastic bags for pill storage.
• Don’t leave purses or travel bags open where pets can access them.
• Ask guests to keep medications zipped and stored away.

Famotidine FAQs for Pet Owners

Can I give Pepcid with food?

No—administer it on an empty stomach, ideally 1 hour before feeding.

What if I miss a dose?

Give it when you remember, unless the next dose is soon. Never double up.

Is Pepcid safe for long-term use?

Short-term use is preferred. Long-term use may reduce effectiveness.

Can I crush Pepcid tablets?

It’s not recommended. Some tablets are designed for extended absorption. Ask your vet for a liquid form or hide tablets in food instead.

Do any drugs interact with Pepcid?

Yes—famotidine changes stomach pH, affecting absorption of:

• Iron supplements
• Antifungals (ketoconazole, fluconazole)
• Cephalosporins (cephalexin, cefpodoxime)

These should be spaced 1–2 hours apart.

Alternatives to Pepcid for Dogs and Cats

Other acid reducers in veterinary medicine include:

• Omeprazole (Prilosec®) — more potent acid suppression
• Cerenia — anti-nausea medication
• Sucralfate — coats ulcers
• Ranitidine (Zantac®) — less effective, but an H2 blocker

Always consult your vet before switching or starting any medication.

Famotidine is generally preferred due to its stronger acid-reducing properties.

Pepcid Complete: Dual Action Relief

Pepcid Complete® combines:

• Famotidine (longer-lasting)
• Antacid (fast relief)

Though formulated for humans, its dual action makes it popular. Always consult your vet before giving to pets.

When Should I Give My Pet Famotidine?

Morning administration works best, before breakfast. This helps create a low-acid environment throughout the day and avoids food interference.

Contraindications: When to Avoid Pepcid

Use famotidine cautiously if your pet has:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease

These organs process famotidine, and impairment may lead to toxicity. Your vet may recommend a lower dose or different medication.

Where to Get Famotidine

You can purchase Pepcid over the counter in 10 mg tablets. For higher doses, liquids, or injections, you'll need a prescription.

By keeping famotidine use informed and controlled, pet owners can confidently treat a variety of acid-related issues in dogs and cats. Whether it’s a temporary gastric flare-up or a chronic case of reflux, Pepcid for dogs and cats provides a reliable line of defense. Just remember: always consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance and dosing, and monitor your furry companion’s response every step of the way.

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. Make sure to discuss proper dosage and other precautions with your veterinarian before using Pepcid for dogs. If you’re concerned about costs related to medication, learn how pet insurance may be able to help. Click here to learn more.