Prednisone. The word alone can strike fear into the hearts of cat owners. It’s a common medication prescribed by veterinarians to treat a variety of conditions, from allergies and asthma to inflammatory bowel disease and even certain cancers. While prednisone can be a life-saver for your feline friend, actually administering it can feel like an impossible mission. Cats are notorious for their discerning palates and their uncanny ability to detect hidden medications. This article is your comprehensive guide to successfully administering prednisone to your cat, making the process as stress-free as possible for both of you.
Understanding Prednisone and Why Your Cat Needs It
Prednisone is a corticosteroid, a synthetic version of hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation. This makes it effective for treating a wide array of conditions. Understanding why your cat needs prednisone can help you stay motivated during the challenging task of administering it. Your vet will have diagnosed the specific condition and prescribed the appropriate dosage.
It is crucial to adhere strictly to your veterinarian’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency. Never adjust the dosage without consulting your vet, even if your cat seems to be feeling better. Stopping prednisone abruptly can be dangerous.
Common Conditions Treated with Prednisone in Cats
- Allergies: Prednisone can relieve itching, skin irritation, and respiratory symptoms associated with allergies.
- Asthma: By reducing inflammation in the airways, prednisone helps cats breathe easier.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Prednisone can control the inflammation in the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Prednisone can suppress the overactive immune system response in conditions like pemphigus foliaceus.
- Cancer: In some cases, prednisone is used to manage symptoms or as part of a chemotherapy protocol.
Potential Side Effects of Prednisone
While prednisone is a valuable medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. These can include increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, weight gain, panting (especially in hot weather), and behavioral changes. Long-term use can also increase the risk of diabetes and other complications. Discuss any concerns you have with your veterinarian. Monitoring your cat for any unusual behavior or physical changes while they are on prednisone is very important.
If you notice any concerning side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on how to manage the side effects or adjust the dosage if necessary.
Strategies for Administering Prednisone: Pills vs. Liquids
Prednisone is available in both pill and liquid forms. The best option for your cat will depend on their individual personality and your own comfort level. Consider your cat’s temperament and your own skills when choosing between pill and liquid prednisone.
The Pill Pushing Approach
This is often the most challenging method, but it can be effective with some cats.
- Pill Pockets: These are treats with a built-in pouch to hide the pill. Many cats readily accept them.
- Hiding in Food: You can try hiding the pill in a small amount of your cat’s favorite wet food or a tasty treat like tuna or cooked chicken. Make sure your cat consumes the entire portion to ensure they get the full dose.
- Direct Pilling: If other methods fail, you may need to directly administer the pill. Gently hold your cat’s head, tilt it back slightly, and open their mouth. Place the pill as far back on the tongue as possible and quickly close their mouth. Gently stroke their throat to encourage swallowing. This method requires practice and patience.
Liquid Prednisone: A Potentially Easier Option
Liquid prednisone can be easier to administer, especially for cats who are resistant to taking pills.
- Measuring the Dose: Use a syringe to accurately measure the prescribed dose.
- Mixing with Food: You can try mixing the liquid with a small amount of wet food. However, be aware that some cats will detect the medication and refuse to eat it.
- Direct Administration: If your cat refuses to eat the medicated food, you can administer the liquid directly into their mouth using the syringe. Gently hold your cat’s head and insert the syringe into the side of their mouth, near the cheek pouch. Slowly release the liquid, allowing your cat to swallow. Administering the liquid slowly helps prevent your cat from choking or spitting out the medication.
Flavor Considerations
Prednisone itself can have a bitter taste. Compounding pharmacies can often formulate the medication into a more palatable flavor, such as chicken or tuna. Talk to your veterinarian about this option. A flavored medication can significantly improve your cat’s acceptance of prednisone.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pilling Your Cat
If you decide to use the pill method, follow these steps for the best chance of success.
- Prepare Everything: Have the pill, a pill pusher (optional), and a small towel ready.
- Wrap Your Cat: Gently wrap your cat in a towel, leaving only their head exposed. This can help prevent scratching and struggling.
- Hold Your Cat Securely: Position your cat on a table or counter, facing away from you.
- Open Your Cat’s Mouth: Gently tilt your cat’s head back and use your fingers to open their mouth.
- Place the Pill: Use your finger or a pill pusher to place the pill as far back on the tongue as possible.
- Close and Stroke: Close your cat’s mouth and gently stroke their throat to encourage swallowing.
- Observe and Reward: Watch your cat to ensure they have swallowed the pill. Offer a small treat as a reward.
Tips for Successful Pilling
- Stay Calm: Cats can sense your anxiety, so try to remain calm and confident.
- Be Gentle: Avoid forcing the pill down your cat’s throat.
- Practice: If you’re new to pilling, practice with a treat or empty capsule first.
- Use a Pill Pusher: This can help you place the pill further back in your cat’s mouth, making it harder for them to spit it out.
- Consider Lubrication: Coating the pill with a small amount of butter or olive oil can make it easier to swallow.
Administering Liquid Prednisone: A Gradual Approach
If you’re using liquid prednisone, follow these steps for successful administration.
- Prepare the Dose: Accurately measure the prescribed dose using a syringe.
- Choose Your Method: Decide whether you will mix the liquid with food or administer it directly.
- If Mixing with Food: Mix the liquid with a small amount of your cat’s favorite wet food. Observe to see if your cat eats the entire portion.
- If Administering Directly: Gently hold your cat’s head and insert the syringe into the side of their mouth, near the cheek pouch.
- Release Slowly: Slowly release the liquid, allowing your cat to swallow.
- Reward: Offer a treat or praise after administering the medication.
Tips for Liquid Medication Success
- Slow and Steady: Administer the liquid slowly to prevent choking or spitting.
- Aim for the Cheek Pouch: This area is less sensitive and can help prevent your cat from tasting the medication immediately.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your cat with a treat or praise after each dose.
- Clean the Syringe: Thoroughly clean the syringe after each use.
- Refrigerate (if required): Some liquid prednisone formulations may require refrigeration. Check the label for storage instructions.
Troubleshooting Common Prednisone Administration Challenges
Even with the best strategies, you may encounter challenges when administering prednisone to your cat. Patience and persistence are key to overcoming these challenges.
My Cat Refuses to Eat the Medicamented Food
This is a common problem. Try these solutions:
- Smaller Portions: Mix the medication with an even smaller amount of food.
- Different Food: Try a different flavor or brand of wet food.
- Strong-Smelling Food: Use a strong-smelling food like tuna or salmon to mask the medication’s taste.
- Direct Administration: If all else fails, you may need to administer the medication directly.
My Cat Spits Out the Pill
This is another common challenge. Try these strategies:
- Pill Pockets: Use a pill pocket to disguise the pill.
- Coating the Pill: Coat the pill with butter or olive oil to make it easier to swallow.
- Pill Pusher: Use a pill pusher to place the pill further back on the tongue.
- Direct Pilling Technique: Improve your direct pilling technique.
My Cat Becomes Aggressive When I Try to Give Medication
If your cat becomes aggressive, it’s important to prioritize your safety and theirs.
- Towel Wrap: Use a towel to gently restrain your cat.
- Enlist Help: Ask a friend or family member to help you.
- Veterinary Assistance: If you’re unable to safely administer the medication, talk to your veterinarian about alternative options or having them administer the medication.
- Calming Aids: Discuss using calming aids with your veterinarian.
My Cat is Panting Excessively
Panting can be a side effect of prednisone, especially in hot weather.
- Keep Your Cat Cool: Ensure your cat has access to cool water and a cool environment.
- Monitor Activity: Limit your cat’s activity during hot weather.
- Contact Your Veterinarian: If the panting is excessive or concerning, contact your veterinarian.
Long-Term Prednisone Use: What You Need to Know
If your cat needs to be on prednisone for an extended period, there are some additional considerations. Long-term prednisone use requires careful monitoring and management.
Monitoring for Side Effects
Pay close attention to your cat for any signs of side effects, such as increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, weight gain, and behavioral changes. Report any concerns to your veterinarian.
Regular Veterinary Checkups
Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to monitor your cat’s health and adjust the prednisone dosage as needed.
Gradual Weaning
Never stop prednisone abruptly. Your veterinarian will gradually reduce the dosage to allow your cat’s adrenal glands to resume normal function.
Dietary Considerations
Prednisone can increase appetite, so be mindful of your cat’s weight and adjust their diet accordingly.
Alternative Therapies to Prednisone
In some cases, alternative therapies may be available to reduce or eliminate the need for prednisone. Discuss alternative therapies with your veterinarian to determine if they are appropriate for your cat.
Allergy Management
For cats with allergies, allergen-specific immunotherapy (allergy shots) or dietary changes may help reduce the need for prednisone.
Asthma Management
Inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators may be used to manage asthma symptoms.
IBD Management
Dietary changes, probiotics, and other medications may help control IBD symptoms.
Seeking Professional Help
If you’re struggling to administer prednisone to your cat, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your veterinarian is your best resource for advice and support.
Veterinary Technician Assistance
Your veterinary technician can demonstrate proper pilling techniques and offer helpful tips.
Compounding Pharmacy
A compounding pharmacy can formulate prednisone into a more palatable flavor.
Behavioral Consultation
A veterinary behaviorist can help address any behavioral issues that may be contributing to the difficulty of administering medication.
Administering prednisone to your cat can be challenging, but with patience, persistence, and the right strategies, you can successfully manage your cat’s health and improve their quality of life. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance.
Why is prednisone prescribed for cats?
Prednisone is a corticosteroid prescribed for cats to treat a wide array of conditions. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant, meaning it can reduce swelling, redness, itching, and pain. Veterinarians commonly use it to manage allergies, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), asthma, and even some types of cancer.
Essentially, prednisone helps to control the body’s overactive immune response, providing relief from the symptoms of these diseases. However, it doesn’t cure the underlying condition; instead, it manages the symptoms to improve the cat’s quality of life. It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment to minimize potential side effects.
What are the common side effects of prednisone in cats?
Increased thirst and urination are among the most frequently observed side effects of prednisone in cats. You might notice your cat drinking more water than usual and needing to use the litter box more often. Some cats may even have accidents outside the litter box due to the increased frequency of urination.
Another common side effect is increased appetite. Your cat might become more demanding for food and seem constantly hungry. This can lead to weight gain, especially if not managed properly with dietary adjustments. Other less common side effects include panting, changes in behavior (such as increased aggression or lethargy), and, in rare cases, suppression of the immune system, making them more susceptible to infections.
What are some methods for administering prednisone to my cat?
Hiding the prednisone pill in a palatable treat is often the first approach many cat owners try. Pill pockets, small pieces of cooked meat, or even tuna can be used to disguise the medication. Ensure the treat is soft enough for the cat to swallow easily, and watch to make sure they consume the entire treat, pill included.
Alternatively, you can use a pill popper or pet piller, a device designed to help administer pills directly into the cat’s mouth. This method requires some practice but can be very effective. Some veterinarians or compounding pharmacies can formulate prednisone into a liquid or flavored chewable tablet, which might be easier for some cats to take. Talk to your veterinarian about these options.
What if my cat refuses to eat the prednisone, no matter what I try?
If your cat absolutely refuses to take prednisone hidden in food or treats, and using a pill popper proves unsuccessful, consider compounding the medication. Compounding pharmacies can often transform the prednisone into a transdermal gel that can be applied to the cat’s inner ear. The medication is then absorbed through the skin.
Another option is to discuss with your veterinarian the possibility of using a different medication. While prednisone is often the first-line treatment, there might be alternative medications that are more palatable or easier to administer. It’s crucial to communicate your difficulties with your veterinarian so they can explore other solutions.
How do I properly store prednisone?
Prednisone should be stored in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. This helps to maintain its stability and effectiveness. Avoid storing it in the bathroom due to the humidity.
Keep prednisone out of reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion can lead to serious health consequences. If you have any expired or unused prednisone, dispose of it properly according to your local regulations. Do not flush it down the toilet or throw it in the trash, as this can contaminate the environment.
Can I stop giving my cat prednisone abruptly?
No, you should never abruptly stop giving your cat prednisone unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian. Sudden cessation of prednisone can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms, as the cat’s adrenal glands, which produce natural corticosteroids, may not be functioning properly after being suppressed by the medication.
Your veterinarian will typically recommend a gradual tapering schedule, where the dosage is slowly reduced over time. This allows the adrenal glands to gradually resume their normal function. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and monitor your cat for any signs of withdrawal, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What should I do if my cat misses a dose of prednisone?
If your cat misses a dose of prednisone, give the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns about missed doses or if your cat exhibits any unusual symptoms after missing a dose. They can provide specific guidance based on your cat’s individual situation and the dosage schedule. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.