Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Sucralfate is the active ingredient in Carafate which is primarily used to protect the lining of the digestive tract in animals, including the oesophagus, stomach, and the upper small intestines. It's effective in preventing and treating stomach ulcers.
Carafate acts by combining with stomach acid to form a paste-like coating. This coating binds to the lining of the gastrointestinal system and creates a protective barrier over ulcerations in the stomach, duodenum, and oesophagus.
The administration of Carafate/Sucralfate should be as directed by your veterinarian. It is typically given by mouth every six to twelve hours, preferably on an empty stomach. Sometimes vets will recommend giving Carafate in slurry form using a syringe. It may be advised to crush and dissolve the tablets in 15-30ml lukewarm water immediately prior to administration.
Missed dose:
If you miss a dose of Carafate to your pet, typically vets might suggest giving it as soon as remembered or skipping it if the next dose is due soon. Avoid giving extra or double doses. Consult your veterinarian for guidance and always follow your vet’s instructions.
Overdose:
Carafate is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. Overdoses are rare but if suspected, immediately contact your veterinarian or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or 0800 869 738.
Carafate can interfere with the absorption of other medications and supplements your pet might be receiving, so it is important to follow your vet's instructions regarding administering Carafate before or after other medications. Often it is recommended to give Carafate 2 hours before some medications, so consult with your vet about giving Carafate with other medication and supplements.
While generally well-tolerated, some pets may experience mild side effects such as:
Store Carafate tablets and liquids at room temperatures. Ensure the container is tightly closed to protect from moisture and light.
Can I give my pet Carafate on an empty stomach?
How long should a pet stay on Carafate?
Should I give Carafate with food?
Should I give Carafate at the same time as my pet’s other medications?
Carafate (Sucralfate) can be a beneficial medication for managing digestive tract issues in cats and dogs. We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Carafate for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.