Cats are sprightly pets; they love to climb tall perches and jump from one surface to another. So if you notice that yours is moving slower than usual or is in pain, you’ll want to take them to the vet to get checked out.
Your veterinarian might prescribe prednisolone, a steroid given to cats as an anti-inflammatory treatment. However, this isn’t the only condition that's treated with this medication. Keep reading to learn the benefits of prednisolone for cats, possible side effects and more.
Cats with allergies or joint pain are typically given prednisolone as an anti-inflammatory solution. It’s also an immunosuppressant for autoimmune diseases, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease or as a cancer chemotherapy agent, says Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch’s Chief Veterinary Officer and Director of Veterinary Affairs.
If your cat is prescribed prednisolone, you’ll either give it to them orally as a tablet or suspension, which is a liquid form.
There are a few potential side effects your cat may experience while taking prednisolone. You might notice your cat urinating more often or an increased thirst, Dr. McCullough explains.
“Chronic prednisolone use can lead to decreased adrenal gland function, increased infection risk due to immune system suppression, greater appetite, gastrointestinal upset, irritation leading to ulcers and increased blood sugar if given in high doses,” she adds.
If your cat has a negative reaction to prednisolone, Dr. McCullough recommends contacting your veterinarian. Unfortunately, the side effects usually can’t be stopped immediately, but there are ways to decrease the reaction.
Your cat’s weight, their ailment and the severity of their condition are all factors that determine how much prednisolone your veterinarian will prescribe, Dr. McCullough explains.
“In most cases, the amount of prednisolone is tapered to the lowest effective dosage as directed by a veterinarian,” she adds.
The length of time your cat should take prednisolone depends on the same three factors. According to Dr. McCullough, some cats will take it for a short period, while others will continue the treatment for their entire lives.
Before testing a natural remedy, Dr. McCullough urges you to always talk to your veterinarian. However, if you’re interested in incorporating different solutions into your cat's recovery (depending on their condition), ask your pet’s doctor about homeopathic treatments or special diets.
You can get the guaranteed lowest price on prednisolone and other medications for your cat on FetchPetRx.com.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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