For Cerenia, it's exactly as Staci said. Keep giving it, keep on top of the pain/nausea. Plus, Cerenia has analgesic properties that go beyond simply treating nausea.
Slippery Elm is great for constipation and loose bowels, and helps settle the tummy as well.
When our cats have tummy upsets, it can be hard to figure out what to do. Constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, overnight bile pukes - all of the distressing signs that something isn't right. Often, vets have advised the antacid Pepcid (Famotidine) used off-label, but although it can give short-term results, its effectiveness can lessen over time, and its isn't suitable for all cats. (
The Problems with Pepcid and Other Antacids.)
Slippery Elm (specifically the inner bark of Ulmus rubra) is often referred to by holistic veterinarians as "nature’s Pepto-Bismol." Its primary power comes from mucilage, a fiber that turns into a slick, soothing gel when mixed with water.
For cats, this gel acts like a "liquid bandage" for the internal linings of the body. Here are the main benefits:
1. Digestive Relief (The "All-in-One" Solution)
Slippery elm is unique because it can help with two opposite problems:
Diarrhea: The fiber and mucilage add bulk to stools and soothe the inflamed intestinal lining.
Constipation: Its lubricating properties help "slide" waste through the colon more easily.
Nausea and Vomiting: By coating the stomach lining, it can reduce irritation from stomach acid, which is particularly helpful for cats with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or acid reflux.
2. Hairball Management
Because it lubricates the digestive tract, slippery elm can help swallowed fur pass through the system more smoothly instead of getting stuck in the stomach to form a hairball.
3. Urinary Tract & Bladder Support
While it doesn't travel directly to the bladder, slippery elm contains pentosans, a type of sugar that may help soothe the lining of the urinary tract. This makes it a popular supportive supplement for cats suffering from Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) or cystitis.
4. Respiratory & Throat Health
If your cat has a dry cough or a sore throat (sometimes seen after dental surgery or during respiratory infections), slippery elm coats the throat to reduce the urge to cough and makes swallowing more comfortable.
5. Skin Healing (External Use)
When mixed with a little cold water into a paste, it can be applied to "hot spots," rashes, or minor wounds as a cooling, protective poultice.
Making a slippery elm syrup is the most effective way to use this herb for nausea or throat irritation, as the pre-thickened gel coats the digestive tract immediately.
Stovetop Recipe
This method creates a smooth, molasses-like consistency that is easy to dose.
Ingredients
* 1 tsp Slippery Elm Bark Powder (pure inner bark)
* 1/2 cup Cold Water
Instructions
1. Whisk while cold: Place the water and powder in a small stainless steel saucepan. Use a small whisk or fork to mix them while the water is still cold—this prevents the powder from clumping.
2. Simmer: Place the pan over low heat. Bring the mixture to a very low simmer, stirring constantly.
3. Thicken: Continue to simmer and stir for about **2–3 minutes**. You will see it thicken into a consistency similar to watery egg whites or light syrup.
4. Cool: Remove from heat and let it cool completely. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
---
Storage & Dosing
* Storage:** Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about **5 days**. If it changes color significantly or smells sour, discard it and make a fresh batch.
* Dosage:** For a typical 10lb cat, give **1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon** (approx. 1.25–2.5 ml) up to 4 times a day.
* Administration:** * **For Nausea/Acid Reflux:** Give it 30 minutes **before** a meal to coat the stomach.
* For Diarrhea/Constipation:** You can mix it directly into wet food.
* For Mouth Ulcers:** Use a syringe to gently dab or drop it onto the affected areas.
Pro-Tips for "Picky" Cats
If your cat isn't a fan of the plain syrup, you can try these tricks:
* **The Broth Swap:** Use plain, sodium-free chicken or beef broth (ensure it has **no** onions or garlic) instead of water to make the syrup.
* **The Food Topper:** Mix the dose of syrup with a tiny amount of Churu or their favorite wet treat.
* **Syringe Method:** If they refuse to eat it voluntarily, the syrup is smooth enough to be administered via a needleless plastic syringe into the side of the mouth.
Sources
Slippery Elm Bark
Safe and natural treatment for relief from nausea, stomach acid and other digestive ailments.
Slippery elm bark for FIP cats
DIY Cat Tummy Soother (Slippery Elm Syrup!)
Slippery Elm
Slippery Elm | Little Big Cat - Dr. Jean Hofve
Important tips for use
The "2-Hour Rule": Because slippery elm coats the digestive tract, it can interfere with the absorption of other medications. Always give other meds at least 2 hours before or after slippery elm.
Wait for the Gel: For the best results, mix the powder with water to form a "gruel" or syrup before feeding. Most cats find the taste mild and slightly sweet.
Check the Source: Ensure you are using inner bark powder (light tan/cream color). Avoid products containing the outer bark, which can be irritating.