Prednisone is used to treat many conditions in cats. It is a synthetic corticosteroid drug that is used for treating humans as well. This article lists its uses and side effects in cats.
Prednisone is a popular corticosteroid drug that is used for treating a number of medical conditions in cats. It is one of the widely-used medications in veterinary care. It helps in treating Addison’s disease, inflammation due to arthritis, allergies, and even helps in treating some types of autoimmune diseases. You cannot just give prednisone to your cat without the advice of your vet. The dosage depends on the weight of the cat. It is a prescription drug and is sold per tablet.
Prednisone is a synthetic corticosteroid that belongs to the glucocorticoid class. The glucocorticoids help treat cats in cases of dysfunctions. These are also produced naturally in the adrenal glands and are responsible for breaking down proteins and fats, which are converted to glucose.
Low doses of prednisone are given in cases of allergic reactions. In case of moderate doses, it helps as an appetite stimulant and an anti-emetic agent, that is, it helps prevent vomiting and nausea. High doses of prednisone for cats with cancer are used in chemotherapy and also to treat immune and autoimmune diseases like ulcerative skin disease.
Different Types
Prednisone for cats is available in syrup form, suspension liquid, various-sized tablets, and injectable form in two concentrations. The vet will determine the dosage according to the cat’s condition. The most preferred form of prednisone is tablets. In case of bacterial shock, the vet may administer the injectable form.
Uses
Prednisone not only helps in treating inflammation and autoimmune diseases, but also helps to reduce swelling and itchy skin due to cat skin allergies. In case of an allergic reaction of the eyes, it helps in reducing the redness and itching. It suppresses the inflammatory response due to many different agents.
Prednisone is given in case of anti-inflammatory conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, severe skin inflammation, and for breathing problems due to swelling of the mouth and nasal passage. It is also used to treat anaphylactic reactions, spinal cord trauma, and other types of shocks. The dosage in such cases is usually 1 mg per pound weight of the cat, once or twice a day.
When the cat seems to get better, the dosage is reduced to one time per day till the cat is fully cured. In case of autoimmune conditions like hemolytic anemia or thrombocytopenia, the cat is given 1 to 3 mg per pound of prednisone, once a day. The dosage is reduced to 1 to 2 mg per pound as the cat gets better.
Side Effects
Prednisone, like all other drugs, has side effects that can affect your pet. Many owners tend to give their cats large doses of prednisone if they find any problems with their health. If the animal ingests high doses for more than a week, then it may become dependent on the drug. The various side effects are as follows.
- High blood pressure, especially in diabetic cats
- Retention of fluid
- Increased frequency of urination and renal disorders
- Excessive thirst
- Gastrointestinal ulcers
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Muscle degeneration
- Change in cat behavior, like aggression or hiding
- Poor coat quality
- Hair loss
The cat may also experience long term side effects like weight gain, Cushing’s disease, eye disorders, weakening of muscles, etc.
This wonder drug for cats can have many serious complications if given without medical guidance. You should provide your cat with the best pet care available. You should provide it with good and healthy cat food and never treat it at home without the veterinarian’s advice.
