Alternatives to Prednisone for Cats

Veterinarians prescribe the corticosteroid prednisone for many conditions in cats. However, this anti-inflammatory drug is not without side effects, so many pet owners prefer to find alternative methods to deal with their cats' ailments. Whether or not an alternative method suits your cat depends on many factors, particularly the nature of the disease. Always discuss alternative treatments with your veterinarian, and do not change medications without a veterinarian's advice.

  1. Ailments Commonly Treated With Prednisone

    • The list of feline diseases frequently treated with prednisone is long. Amopng them are asthma, skin inflammations, cancer, arthritis and endocrine system issues. Common side effects include excessive water consumption and water retention, kidney and liver disease, high blood pressure, weight gain, immune system compromise, temperament changes, nausea and stomach ulcers. Cats taking prednisone must be weaned off the drug gradually -- don't take a cat off prednisone "cold turkey." Finding alternatives to prednisone may be especially valuable in cases where potential side effects outweigh the severity of the cat's medical diagnosis.

    Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplementation

    • Cats suffering from dermal issues may benefit from supplementation with omega 3 fatty acids. Using these products may delay or obviate the need for prednisone, although it may take six weeks of supplementation or more to see differences in the cat's skin or coat condition. If prednisone is still necessary, it may be at a reduced dosage if supplementation continues. Omega 3 fatty acid supplements work by lowering inflammatory chemical production within the animal's body. Administering supplements is relatively easy, as they can be mixed into kitty's food.

    Antihistamines

    • In lieu of prednisone, cats often respond to antihistamines for treatment of skin allergies and asthmatic conditions. There is one caveat -- you will have to pill the cat once or twice daily. Unlike dogs, cats don't usually fall for the pill-wrapped-in-meat-or-cheese trick, so you must be comfortable sticking the pills down kitty's throat and making sure they are actually swallowed. Ask the vet about using antihistamines and omega 3 fatty acids in conjunction, as their effects are complementary.

    Vitamins

    • For cats exhibiting milder disease symptoms, vitamin therapy or supplementation with over-the-counter remedies that have anti-inflammatory properties may preclude or at least postpone the need for prednisone. Supplementation with ester C at approximately 250mg daily may aid cats with minor respiratory issues. Vitamin E, the B-complex vitamins, l-lysine, cod liver oil, evening primrose oil, and coenzyme Q-10 are also common feline supplements. Consult your veterinarian for proper dosage and forms of all supplements.