What are antiemetics used for in veterinary medicine?

Antiemetics are medications specifically designed to inhibit or reduce the act of vomiting. In veterinary medicine, these drugs are vital for managing conditions where vomiting is a symptom or a concern, such as in cases of motion sickness, gastrointestinal disturbances, or as a side effect of certain treatments like chemotherapy. By controlling vomiting, antiemetics help maintain a pet's hydration status, prevent additional health issues that may arise from frequent vomiting, and improve the overall quality of life for animals undergoing stressful situations or treatments.

In contrast, promoting vomiting, increasing stomach acidity, or enhancing nutrient absorption are either actions that can be harmful in cases where vomiting is not indicated or are unrelated to the primary function of antiemetics. Thus, the role of antiemetics focuses on suppressing the vomiting reflex to ensure better health outcomes for animals.