Prednisone for Cats: Side Effects, Dosage

Sometimes predinsone is prescribed for felines. The reasons are similar to to why this drug is prescribed for humans. As a corticosteroid, prednisone can help to reduce swelling due to allergies and asthma. It is also an immune system suppressant and can thus be used to counteract the effects of an autoimmune disorder. Just like in humans, prednisone should only ever be given to a cat on a temporary basis. What is the proper prednisone dosage for cats? What side effects may occur while your pet is on this medication? Read on to learn more.

Prednisone dosage for cats

Prednisone dosage for cats depends on the condition for which the cat is being treated. Conditions which cause or result in minor inflammation, such as allergies, only call for a low dose of the drug. If the drug is being used to prevent vomiting or encourage eating then a slightly higher dose will be used. Large doses are used to treat cats that are also undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer as well as cats that have severe autoimmune disorders. Weight is also a factor that is considered when choosing a dosage. While a low dosage for a human is 20 mg, cats may take as little as 5 mg.

Prednisone side effects in cats

Just like humans, cats may experience side effects from the medications that they take. What are some prednisone side effects in cats? Prednisone can cause dry mouth resulting in your pet drinking more water. Prednisone also increases hunger which is why it is prescribed for cats with a weak appetite. This may result in rapid weight gain. Other side effects that are less common may include an upset stomach, behavioral changes (the cat may become more aggressive), and hair loss. If any of the more serious side effects occur, contact your vet.

Cats sometimes have trouble metabolizing prednisone. That is why some are prescribed prednisolone instead. It is basically the same drug, but it is already in the form it would be after being processed in the liver. Prednisolone side effects in cats should be the same as the prednisone side effects. Since prednisone works as an immune suppressant, you should watch for the signs of an infection in your cat when it is taking this drug, especially if it is on a high dose as such a dose will significantly compromise the immune system. That is why high doses are only used in connection with serious conditions such as cancer.