Steroids for Dogs and Cats: What You Need to Know About Their Safety and Use - Petful (2024)

This pet health content was written by a veterinarian,Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS. This article was originally published in 2017 and is regularly updated. It was last reviewed for accuracy and updated on August 29, 2024.

If you have questions or concerns, call your vet, who is best equipped to ensure the health and well-being of your pet. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seeadditional information.

Understanding Steroids for Dogs and Cats

So you’ve heard that steroids for dogs and cats are “bad.”

You Google “steroids and pets” and find websites, some written by veterinarians, using words such as “extremely powerful drugs,” “over-prescribed,” and “very serious side effects.”

But what if your pet, whether it’s a cat or a dog, has itchy paws, diarrhea, or sore gums—conditions for which vets often prescribe steroids for dogs and cats?

As a vet myself, I’m a big believer in explaining the pros and cons of treatment options to my clients. Leaving aside poor communication as a separate matter, let’s look at:

• When steroid use is necessary
• The potential side effects of steroids for dogs and cats
• How to use steroids for dogs and cats safely

What Are Steroids for Dogs and Cats?

Steroids for dogs and cats are naturally occurring substances that their bodies produce on their own. They are essential to health and well-being.

Steroids are potent anti-inflammatories that help down-regulate the immune system, making them popular when:

• The body experiences out-of-control inflammation (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease)
• The immune system attacks the body (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

Short-term use of steroids for dogs and cats often results in temporary “euphoric” effects, where pets feel fantastic and eat better.

Since not eating can lead to other health problems, there’s an argument for a quick fix with a steroid injection to prevent more serious complications from developing.

Why Vets Prescribe Steroids for Dogs and Cats

Vets prescribe steroids for dogs and cats to reduce inflammation, such as for skin allergies, and to calm the immune system.

While calming the immune system may sound concerning—potentially weakening defenses against infection—it’s crucial in cases of autoimmune diseases where the immune system becomes the body’s own worst enemy.

Conditions like:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Pemphigus
• Sterile meningitis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• AIHA (autoimmune hemolytic anemia)

These conditions are the result of a faulty immune system that attacks its own tissues. Using steroids to switch off this reaction is potentially life-saving for both cats and dogs.

If you’re feeling skeptical, consider a world without steroids, which exists in a condition called Addison’s disease (rare in cats). The body needs steroids to cope during stress. Without steroids, as seen in Addisonian pets, even a slight change in routine can lead to:

• Muscle tremors and weakness
• Diarrhea
• Collapse, coma, and even death

Learn more about Addison’s disease and why the body needs steroids.

Treating Dogs and Cats With Steroids

So why do steroids have such a bad reputation when it comes to treating cats?

One cause is overuse: A quick injection of steroid can make a cat feel better fast. Sometimes, this is perfectly fine, but other times, the steroid is merely treating a symptom, like diarrhea or itchy skin, while the cause (e.g., food allergy or fleas) is still at large.

Side Effects of Steroids for Dogs and Cats

Cats are more resistant than dogs or people to the long-term use of steroids. But this doesn’t mean there’s no risk.

Most cats experience a psychological side effect and think they’re hungry and thirsty (hence the ravenous appetite and increased drinking).

Other side effects include:

• Stomach ulcers (if given on an empty stomach)
• Cushing’s disease (rare in cats)
• Sugar diabetes

The current thinking is that if a cat or a dog is on the road to developing diabetes, then steroids will boost them over the finish line. Thus it’s good to recognize if your cat is in one of these high-risk groups for diabetes:

• Overweight cats
• Older female cats
• Using long-term steroids, especially depot steroid injections

Treating Cats With Steroids: Risks and Benefits

So why do steroids have such a bad reputation when it comes to treating cats?

One cause is overuse. A quick injection of steroids for cats can make them feel better fast. Sometimes, this is perfectly fine, but other times, the steroid is merely treating a symptom, like diarrhea or itchy skin, while the underlying cause (e.g., food allergy or fleas) is still at large.

Side Effects of Steroids for Cats

Cats are generally more resistant than dogs or people to the long-term use of steroids, but this doesn’t mean there’s no risk. Most cats experience psychological side effects, such as:

• Thinking they’re hungry and thirsty (leading to a ravenous appetite and increased drinking)

Other potential side effects include:

• Stomach ulcers (if given on an empty stomach)
• Cushing’s disease (rare in cats)
• Sugar diabetes

Current thinking suggests that if a cat is at risk of developing diabetes, steroids can push them over the finish line. Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize if your cat falls into one of these high-risk groups for diabetes:

• Overweight cats
• Older female cats
• Cats receiving long-term steroids, especially depot steroid injections

Listen to this vet talk about why steroids are used to help ailing pets:

Types of Steroids Used in Dogs

When it comes to steroids for dogs and cats, there are several types used to treat various conditions. The most common steroids prescribed for dogs include:

• Prednisone and Prednisolone: These are the most widely used steroids in dogs and cats. They are effective in managing inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
• Dexamethasone: This steroid is more potent and is typically used in cases requiring a stronger anti-inflammatory response.
• Triamcinolone: Often used for skin conditions, this steroid helps in managing allergies and itching in dogs.
• Betamethasone: Another potent steroid, it’s used for severe allergies and inflammatory conditions in dogs.

Each type of steroid has its specific use, and the choice depends on the condition being treated and the pet’s overall health. Your vet will decide the most appropriate steroid based on the diagnosis.

Long-Term Effects of Steroid Treatment in Dogs

Just like steroids for cats, long-term steroid use in dogs carries certain risks. While steroids can be life-saving, prolonged use needs careful management to avoid severe side effects. Some of the potential long-term effects in dogs include:

• Increased risk of infections: Steroids can suppress the immune system, making dogs more susceptible to infections.
• Cushing’s disease: Long-term use can lead to hyperadrenocorticism, where the body produces excessive cortisol, leading to symptoms like increased thirst, appetite, and a pot-bellied appearance.
• Muscle weakness and joint problems: Prolonged steroid use can lead to muscle atrophy and weakened ligaments, increasing the risk of injuries.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Dogs may develop stomach ulcers or other GI issues if steroids are not administered with food.

Monitoring and regular veterinary check-ups are essential for any dog on long-term steroid treatment to catch and manage these potential issues early.

Responsible Steroid Use for Dogs and Cats

We all want your pet to be fit, well, and happy. So here’s how to use steroids for dogs and cats responsibly, with minimal risk to their health:

• Reach a diagnosis: Where possible, identify and eliminate the underlying cause of the problem. For example, a cat with diarrhea may need a fecal exam, blood tests, and an abdominal scan. By addressing the underlying cause, the need for steroids may be reduced or eliminated.
• Start early with the lowest effective dose: Administering a low dose helps stop the inflammatory cycle, ultimately leading to lower doses for shorter periods.
• Balance the risk factors: If you have a fat, elderly female cat, the reason for giving steroids needs to be more compelling than for a young, slim male cat with a lower risk of side effects.
• Prefer tablets over injections: A one-off injection is unlikely to cause problems, but if long-term medication is needed, tablets are better. Tablets allow you to stop the medication (under your vet’s guidance) if side effects occur, unlike a depot injection, which cannot be reversed once administered.
• Administer safely: Give steroids with or after food (not on an empty stomach) to reduce the risk of stomach ulcer formation.
• Avoid combining medications: Always consult your vet before adding another medication to steroids.
• Consider alternate-day therapy: Once your pet is stable, ask your vet about dosing every other day. This method can provide the full anti-inflammatory benefits while giving your pet’s body a “rest day” to process the steroid.

Managing Steroid Dosage and Administration in Dogs

Proper management of steroid dosage is crucial for minimizing risks when using steroids for dogs and cats. In dogs, the key strategies include:

• Starting with the lowest effective dose: This helps to control inflammation while reducing the risk of side effects.
• Gradual tapering: Instead of abruptly stopping steroids, the dosage should be gradually reduced under veterinary supervision to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
• Monitoring side effects: Keep an eye on your dog for any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels, as these could indicate side effects from steroid use.
• Alternate-day dosing: For long-term treatments, your vet may recommend alternate-day dosing to give your dog’s body a rest and reduce the cumulative side effects.

By carefully managing the dosage and administration of steroids, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your dog during treatment.

Final Thoughts: Are Steroids Safe for Dogs and Cats?

Your vet should always discuss treatments like steroids for dogs and cats with you. If they don’t volunteer the information, be sure to ask what the medication is, why it’s necessary, and what to expect.

No vet worth their stripes will mind you taking an active interest in your pet’s welfare, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and ensure you fully understand the treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

• “The Challenge of Long-term Steroids for Cats.”CatWatch, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Feline Health Center. Jan. 9, 2017.https://www.catwatchnewsletter.com/features/the-challenge-of-long-term-steroids-for-cats/.
• Hunter, Tammy, DVM, and Ernest Ward, DVM. “Steroid Treatment: Effects in Cats.” VCA Hospitals. 2018.https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/steroid-treatment-long-term-effects-in-cats.
• Hunter, Tammy, DVM, and Ernest Ward, DVM. “Steroid Treatment: Effects in Dogs.” VCA Hospitals. 2018.https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/steroid-treatment-long-term-effects-in-dogs.
• Gollakner, Rania, DVM. “Prednisolone/Prednisone.” VCA Hospitals.https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/prednisoloneprednisone.
• Brooks, Wendy, DVM, DABVP. “Steroid Use in Dogs and Cats.” Veterinary Partner. July 2, 2019.https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952031.
• Mason, Doug, DVM, DVSC, DACVIM. “Prednisone Therapy in Dogs and Cats.” Veterinary Emergency ClinicInternal Medicine News. January 2012.http://vectoronto.com/content/uploads/2012/12/InternalMedicineNews4.pdf.
• “Steroid Treatment: Long-Term Effects in Dogs.” VCA Hospitals. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/steroid-treatment-long-term-effects-in-dogs
• “7 Types of Steroids for Dogs.” PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/7-types-steroids-dogs
• “Prednisone for Dogs.” GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/pet-health/dog/prednisone-for-dogs