CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Fergus Allerton,
Medication: Ferrous sulfate
Your cat has been prescribed ferrous sulfate to help maintain your pet’s blood iron levels.
Key points: • Low blood iron levels are typically due to other illnesses and your veterinarian will need to investigate and treat the cause of the iron deficiency. • Dosage: once daily, or as prescribed by your veterinarian.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Ferrous sulfate (feh-russ sul-fayt).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing solely ferrous sulfate.
Class of medication
- Mineral.
- Iron salt.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed ferrous sulfate?
Your cat has been prescribed ferrous sulfate because their blood iron levels are too low. Low blood iron levels may be due to significant blood loss (such as during surgery, or an accident, or due to chronic bleeding conditions) or due to poor nutrition or chronic disease. Iron is needed by the red blood cells that carry oxygen to all of the body and so it is essential that your pet maintains healthy blood iron levels.
How is the medication given?
Ferrous sulfate is given orally as tablets. Dosage is usually once daily but your veterinarian will advise the correct dose for your pet. Tablets may be administered with or without food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Possible side-effects may include constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea. Your cat’s feces may also become dark while on treatment. If your cat appears to have any side-effects from their medication, then speak to your veterinarian straight away. Use with care in patients with heart disease, kidney disease and liver disease. Let your veterinarian know if your cat is on any other medications, including home remedies or herbal preparations.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Ferrous sulfate should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused ferrous sulfate safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Do not save ferrous sulfate for future use or give to other pets. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period. If you accidentally double dose your pet with ferrous sulfate then there are unlikely to be any consequences from a single accidental extra dose, but it is best to call your veterinarian for advice.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Ferrous sulfate should only be given to the pet that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on ferrous sulfate?
Your veterinarian will need to check your cat regularly to ensure that the drug is working safely and to comply with prescribing regulations. Your veterinarian will need to run regular blood tests to check your pet’s red blood cell count and ensure that their anemia (lack of red blood cells) is improving.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on ferrous sulfate can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
