Kaolin/Pectin
Also known as: Kaopectolin, Kao-Pec, Kao-Pect, Kaolin Pectin Suspension, Kapectolin
- **Shake the bottle well** before each use to ensure the suspension is properly mixed. - **Do not substitute human products:** Never give human over-the-counter diarrhea medications (like modern Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol) to your pets, especially cats, without veterinary approval. Many of these now contain bismuth subsalicylate, which is highly toxic to cats. - **Monitor your pet:** This medication may help firm up the stool but does not cure the underlying cause of diarrhea. - **When to call the vet:** If the diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, or if your pet appears listless, lethargic, develops a high fever, or shows signs of dehydration, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
Veterinary professional? See the full dosing-by-species reference on VetSheet →
What it is used for
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea (Adults)
- Diarrhea (Calves)
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea in Foals
- Diarrhea (Canary or parakeet)
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea (Medium-sized birds)
- Diarrhea (Large birds)
- Diarrhea
- Diarrhea (Guinea pigs)
- Diarrhea
- Enterotoxins secondary to garbage ingestion
- Enterotoxins secondary to garbage ingestion
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Transient constipation
- Fecal impaction (especially at high doses or in debilitated, very old, or very young patients)
- Increased fecal sodium loss (documented in rats)
Cautions & contraindications
- Should not be used as the sole treatment for severe or chronic diarrhea
- Should not replace adequate fluid and electrolyte monitoring/replacement therapy
- There are no absolute contraindications, but kaolin/pectin **must not be relied upon to control severe diarrheas**. It is not a substitute for appropriate fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy. Use with caution in debilitated, very young, or geriatric patients due to the risk of fecal impaction. **Verify product ingredients**, as many human brands (e.g., Kaopectate) have replaced kaolin/pectin with bismuth subsalicylate, which is toxic to cats.
Drug interactions
- Digoxin: Kaolin/pectin may impair the oral absorption of digoxin. Separate doses by at least 2 hours.
- Lincomycin: Kaolin/pectin may inhibit the oral absorption of lincomycin. Administer kaolin/pectin at least 2 hours before or 3-4 hours after the lincomycin dose.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kaolin/Pectin used for in pets?
- Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the suspension is properly mixed. - Do not substitute human products: Never give human over-the-counter diarrhea medications (like modern Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol) to your pets, especially cats, without veterinary approval. Many of these now contain bismuth subsalicylate, which is highly toxic to cats. - Monitor your pet: This medication may help firm up the stool but does not cure the underlying cause of diarrhea. - When to call the vet: If the diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, or if your pet appears listless, lethargic, develops a high fever, or shows signs of dehydration, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Is Kaolin/Pectin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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