Treating Prednisone Side Effects in Dogs
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Gastric Effects
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Vet Info says that prednisone can cause gastric side effects in dogs, including ulcers and problems absorbing nutrients. This is especially common when prednisone must be given to the dog on a long-term basis for a chronic condition. Gastric side effects can be treated by cutting back on the treatment days, giving prednisone every other day rather than daily. Ulcers can be treated with common medications such as Tagamet (cimetidine) and Pepcid AC (famotidine) under a veterinarian's direction.
Excessive Hunger and Thirst
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Even when used for short periods, prednisone can cause excessive hunger and thirst as a side effect in dogs, according to Pet Alive. Thirst can be treated by ensuring the dog has access to clean water at all times and taking it outside frequently to urinate. Hunger can be managed by controlling food portions and using lower-calorie dog food during the treatment period.
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Psychological Effects
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Some dogs on prednisone exhibit odd behavior, including abnormal fear or aggression. These effects tend to disappear after treatment is stopped. Meanwhile, they must be managed by noting the specific symptoms and handling the dog with care. If the animal has become aggressive, the owner should keep others from handling it during treatment.
Long-term Effects
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Prednisone that is used for the long-term treatment of conditions including arthritis can have long-term effects, such as causing the dog to develop diabetes or making it more prone to infections by suppressing its immune system. These effects are treated as they occur by treating the disease or infection. Typically, these effects are seen in older dogs that depend on prednisone for pain relief. The benefit of the treatment outweighs the problems it causes because otherwise, the dog would have to be euthanized due to the pain.
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