Prednisone (did I spell that right?)

macush · September 23, 2014, 05:04:57 PM

My Macushla has rat ulcers in his mouth. While they don't seem to bother him (he eats both wet and dry food very well). The vet wants to put him on prednisone (which is the standard treatment). Has anyone had a cat on this and are there any side effects I should worry about? I know I was on it once and I hated it. Any thoughts on this much appreciated

lesliek · September 23, 2014, 05:41:20 PM

How long do they want Macushla on it ? I have been on it as well as my cats & dogs . I don't like it , but for many things it really does help . I was just on it twice for an allergic reaction to bites . The only thing I noticed with the cats was increased urination .

catbird · September 23, 2014, 06:06:58 PM

I have had two cats on it short-term--Fluffy, many years ago, was on it for 10 days to treat a flea bite reaction (she was allergic.) Cameo was on it for a week when we thought she had a back injury (and didn't know that she had cancer.) I noticed increased water drinking and urination, but that was about it.

I was on it for about 3 weeks once to treat terrible hives, starting at a quite high dose. I was a little hyper and couldn't sleep, but in some other ways, I felt better than I had in 20 years!

macush · September 23, 2014, 06:17:01 PM

Thanks folks. I'm meeting with the vet next week and I'll know more (length, etc)

Spartycats · September 23, 2014, 06:22:19 PM

I always ask for prednisolone, rather than prednisone. Cats seem to do better with that. They generally tolerate steroids better than people do. It is necessary for eosinophilic granulomas (rodent ulcers). I had a kitty with this problem - can be frustrating as it is often chronic.

All about pred

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?A=622

rodent ulcer
http://drbarchas.com/rodent_ulcers

macush · September 23, 2014, 08:15:08 PM

Thanks for the info Spartycats. It's very helpful.

Mandycat · September 23, 2014, 08:59:14 PM

It can be very helpful for specific problems, and rodent ulcers is one of them. I agree with Spartycats, though, be sure it is prednisolone rather than prednisone. Cats tolerate the prednisolone much better. I believe it has something to do with the way it is metabolized. Depending on the length of time it is to be given, the dose needs to be tapered over a period of time when stopping it. Do not stop it suddenly since it can cause big problems. The most noticeable side effects are usually an increase in appetite and increased urination. I am so sorry that Macushla has this problem, but I hope the medication can resolve it.