Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats
Vet-reviewed by Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS MRCVS ·
What is Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats
Overview
Prednisolone is the active form of prednisone, meaning it is already converted into its usable form by the body. In dogs, prednisone is converted to Prednisolone efficiently, but in cats this conversion is limited, making Prednisolone the preferred choice for feline patients.
As a glucocorticoid, Prednisolone helps regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and control symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases, allergic skin problems, and other inflammatory disorders. It works at the cellular level by affecting gene expression and cytokine activity.
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What Is Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats Used For
| Condition | Notes |
|---|---|
| Autoimmune diseases | Helps manage immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, autoimmune skin disease, and SLE. |
| Allergic skin disease | Highly effective for chronic atopic dermatitis. |
| Inflammatory conditions | Reduces inflammation in skin, joints, and organs. |
| Adjunct therapy for itchy skin | Can be used short-term when starting cyclosporine to speed up itch control. |
| Immune-mediated disorders (dogs & cats) | Used for induction and maintenance dosing schedules. |
How Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats Works
Prednisolone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, altering gene expression and decreasing the production of inflammatory chemicals such as cytokines. This results in strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. At low doses it mimics natural cortisol; at higher doses it suppresses the immune system to control disease.
Drug Facts
Prednisolone is a glucocorticoid steroid used to treat inflammation, itching, immune-mediated diseases, and allergic conditions. It can cause dose-dependent effects, meaning low doses act physiologically, while higher doses provide immunosuppression.
Common Brands
PrednisTab
Drug Class
Glucocorticoid steroid
Substance Classification
Not a controlled medication
Generic Status
Generic widely available
Availability
Prescription
Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats Dosage Forms
Prednisolone is available as tablets, oral liquids, and sometimes injectable formulations. Tablets are most commonly used for dogs, while cats often receive tablets or compounded liquids due to easier dosing. Pricing can vary based on compounding and dosage strength.
Oral Tablets / Capsules (5 mg)
| Qty/Size | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|
| 30 tablets | $6.00 | $0.20 |
| 60 tablets | $10.00 | $0.16 |
Compounded Oral Liquid
| Qty/Size | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|
| 30 mL | $35.00 | $1.16 |
| 60 mL | $55.00 | $0.91 |
Injectable Form
| Qty/Size | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mL | $25.00 | $2.50 |
Typical Dosing For Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats
Prednisolone dosing is highly dose-dependent and based on the type of effect needed: physiologic, anti-inflammatory, or immunosuppressive. Dogs convert prednisone effectively, but cats require Prednisolone because they cannot efficiently perform this conversion.
Oral Dosing
| Group | Typical Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs (all sizes) | 1 mg/kg/day | For general inflammation. |
| Dogs (immune-mediated disease) | 2–4 mg/kg/day | Immunosuppressive range. |
| Dogs (induction phase) | 2.2–6.6 mg/kg/day | Used for autoimmune disorders. |
| Cats (immune-mediated skin disease) | ~6.6 mg/kg/day | Higher dose due to lower conversion from prednisone. |
| Cats (general use) | Dose varies per prescribing vet | Cats require Prednisolone, not prednisone. |
Risks and Warnings for Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats
Prednisolone can cause many dose-dependent side effects, especially with long-term use or high doses. Short-term treatment often includes temporary issues such as increased thirst, urination, or appetite. Long-term use increases risks such as immune suppression, infections, and delayed healing.
Side effects noted in studies include:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting (mild)
- Increased thirst and urination
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Increased risk of infections
- Possible urinary incontinence
Higher doses can significantly suppress the immune system, while prolonged combined use with medications such as cyclosporine may increase the risk of serious infections.
Biochemical changes such as elevated ALP, altered iron levels, and shifts in cholesterol and phosphate may occur and may affect interpretation of lab tests.
Prednisolone for Dogs and Cats Warnings and Precautions
Use Prednisolone carefully and follow veterinary directions:
- Avoid in pets with active infections unless prescribed.
- Use cautiously in pets with diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease.
- Do not discontinue suddenly after long-term use.
- Avoid combining with NSAIDs or other steroids.
- Monitor for excessive drinking and urination.
- Long-term use increases infection risk.
- Not recommended for pregnant or nursing animals.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before using or combining any medications for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Prednisolone the same as prednisone?
No. Prednisolone is the active form. Dogs can convert prednisone to Prednisolone, but cats cannot, so cats must receive Prednisolone.
How fast does Prednisolone work?
Most pets show improvement within a few hours to a few days, depending on the condition.
Is long-term use safe?
Long-term use may cause significant side effects and requires close veterinary monitoring.
Can Prednisolone be given with other medications?
Yes, but not with NSAIDs or other steroids. Always consult your vet before combining medications.
Why is my pet drinking and urinating more on Prednisolone?
This is a common steroid side effect and usually resolves when the dose is lowered or discontinued.
Related Medications & Supplements
Dogs taking prednisolone for inflammation or allergies may also use additional treatments that help manage itching, immune response, or skin irritation. These options are commonly considered alongside or as alternatives to steroid therapy.
- Prednisone: similar steroid often used for inflammation and immune conditions
- Apoquel: oral allergy medication used to control itching
- Oclacitinib: generic form of Apoquel used for itch and inflammation control
- Lokivetmab: injectable allergy therapy that provides long lasting itch relief
- Animax ointment: topical medication used for irritated or infected skin
- Nystatin: antifungal commonly used for yeast related skin problems
- Omega 3 fatty acids: supplement that supports skin health and helps reduce inflammation
References
- Petterson, H., et al. (2021) ‘Effect of 1 mg/kg oral prednisolone on biochemical analytes in ten dogs: a cross-over study’, Comparative Clinical Pathology, 30, pp. 519-528. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00580-021-03246-9
- Nerhagen, S., et al. (2020) 'Prednisolone-induced diabetes mellitus in the cat: a historical cohort’, Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1098612X20943522
- Sebbag L. (2012) ‘Pharmacokinetics of Oral Prednisone at Various Doses in Dogs: Preliminary Findings Using a Naïve Pooled-Data Approach’, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.571457/full
- Dip, R., et al. (2013) ‘Concurrent short-term use of prednisolone with cyclosporine A accelerates pruritus reduction and improvement in clinical scoring in dogs with atopic dermatitis’, BMC Veterinary Research, 9, 173. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1746-6148-9-173
- Papich, M.G., et al. (2002) ‘Drugs Used to Treat Immune-Mediated Disorders in Animals’, WSAVA 2002 Congress. Available at: https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?id=3846289&pid=11147&print=1
Editor
The Webvet Editorial Team is a collective of seasoned pet-care journalists, veterinary content specialists, and industry editors dedicated to delivering accurate, trustworthy, and compassionate pet health information. With decades of combined experience across veterinary reporting, pet wellness education, and consumer product research, our team works closely with veterinarians and certified pet experts to ensure every article is both evidence-based and easy to understand.
Veterinarian · BVMS MRCVS
Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a veterinarian with nearly 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. Dr. Elliott earned her Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery from the University of Glasgow. She was also designated a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Married with 2 grown-up kids, Dr. Elliott has a naughty Puggle named Poggle, 3 cats and a bearded dragon.
