Can I Give My Cat Imodium AD?

###Yes, but... Diarrhea can be caused by any number of things: from dietary indiscretion (aka “garbage gut”), food hypersensitivity, parasites, and toxins, to endocrine and metabolic diseases, such as hyperthyroidism and inflammatory bowel disease. It’s important to find out why your cat is having diarrhea before administering any medication to stop the diarrhea, and this means a visit to your veterinarian for a physical exam, a fecal test, and possibly blood work. Another important reason to learn what is causing your cat’s diarrhea is that some conditions, such as toxins and parasites, may actually be exacerbated by administering Imodium. Additionally, the use of Imodium in cats is controversial because it can cause excitation and hyperactivity. Imodium should never be administered if your cat is having profuse or bloody diarrhea, diarrhea lasting for two or more days, anorexia, vomiting, fever, or significant lethargy. Seek veterinary medical care immediately if these symptoms are present. Know the signs to watch for and think carefully about why you’re giving your cat Imodium: is this a problem that warrants a trip to the vet? Probably... **NEVER administer Imodium to kittens or a severely ill animal - seek veterinary medical care first!** **If you decide to use it...** Here are a few guidelines: 1. Use the liquid form of Imodium rather than the 2 mg tablets for more accurate dosing in cats. The liquid form has a concentration of 1 milligram per 5 milliliters, or broken down to 0.2 mg/mL. 2. The dose for cats of liquid Imodium: **For cats 7 lbs. or less**: Give 0.5 mL by mouth once daily. Do not give for more than 2 days. **For cats over 7 lbs.**: Give 1 mL by mouth once daily. Do not give for more than 2 days. 3. Discontinue use immediately if constipation occurs or if you notice any of the other worrisome symptoms mentioned above. 4. Invest in a 1 mL syringe for accurate dosing. This should be available at your local pharmacy or your pharmacist can direct you. For comparison, a tablespoon is equivalent to 30 mL!