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Did you know that prednisone, an inexpensive steroid, is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs to help dogs with cancer live more comfortably?
This corticosteroid is important in palliative care and cancer treatment for dogs.
In this guide, let's discuss what to expect from prednisone for dogs with cancer and how long a dog can stay on this medication.
Let's begin!
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What Is Prednisone and Why Is It Used for Dogs With Cancer?
Prednisone is a synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It helps reduce inflammation and suppresses immune responses when it goes into overdrive.
In dogs with cancer, this medication can also shrink tumor size (especially in lymphoma), and help alleviate pain and swelling associated with specific cancers and tumors, like:
- Lymphoma (as part of CHOP therapy or alone)
- Leukemia
- Mast cell tumor
- Multiple myeloma
- Brain tumors
Prednisone is also used as palliative care for inoperable or late-stage cancers. It helps boost appetite and energy, and reduces nausea and vomiting.
What to Expect When Treating Dogs With Cancer Using Prednisone
It's best to understand that prednisone is not a cure for cancer per se, but it provides comfort and improves a sick dog's quality of life.
That is why prednisone is used ONLY for palliative care—it relieves the physical suffering of the sick individual by managing the symptoms.
Prednisone is NOT a replacement for cancer treatments.
Aggressive cancer treatments may involve surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and other types of procedures to destroy the cancer cells or slow down their progression and, therefore, prolong the dog's life.
Undergoing these treatments will affect your dog's day-to-day life, so prednisone, as part of the whole palliative care plan your veterinarian will prescribe, can help alleviate these discomforts.
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Possible Side Effects
Any medications can have side effects, and prednisone is no exception.
Some side effects you might see in your dog in the first few weeks of taking it are:
- Restlessness
- Increased thirst and urination
- Panting
- Changes in bowel movements
- Changes in behavior or mood
- Digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhea)
- Lethargy
- Thinning and dulling of the skin and coat
It's important to monitor any of these signs or symptoms, even if your dog seems to be doing well.
You should also create a system for tracking them, like a list on your phone or a small notebook with what you have observed. The more details, the better.
This will help you remember and report everything later during your dog's visit with the veterinarian.
Prednisone can have more serious long-term effects when used for an extended period, such as:
- Muscle wasting or loss
- Suppressed immune system
- Increased risk of infections
- Gastrointestinal ulcers
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Cushing's Disease-like symptoms
This is why long-term use must always be done under veterinary supervision.
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Supportive Care While on Prednisone
Because these effects are possible, it's important to provide supportive care to your dog in addition to the medications your vet prescribed.
Make sure your dog is always hydrated. Constant access to clean water is important!
You can try water fountains for dogs. These circulate fresh, clean water, decreasing the risk of bacterial buildup.
Nutrition is always a key part of recovery. To meet its nutritional requirements, feed your dog a high-protein, anti-inflammatory diet.
You can try this high-protein dog food recipe below.
With your vet's permission, you can also add supplements to your dog's diet, like Omega-3s, and for liver support.
Light walking and exercise are also necessary to avoid further muscle deterioration.
How Long Can a Dog Be on Prednisone for Cancer?
Your veterinarian can better answer this question because the duration can depend on the type of cancer, the stage of progression, and your dog's body's response to prednisone.
The typical protocol involves giving a high dose initially, about 1-2 mg/kg/day, lasting about three weeks.
If the symptoms are managed, your vet may decrease the dosage to 0.5/kg/day and gradually taper it off for the next 1 to 2 weeks or more.
For lymphoma, prednisone is often used until remission or progression, which typically lasts for 2 to 4 months.
Generally, if you notice the prednisone isn't as effective anymore, or your dog seems worse and has developed side effects, that's the time to taper giving it already.
It's important NOT to stop giving prednisone to your dog at once. And do not do it without your vet's advice.
Gradually taper it off, because otherwise, it might cause adrenal insufficiency or Addison's disease in dogs.
Regular bloodwork and liver/kidney function checks are also necessary to monitor for any worrying signs.
Individualized care is important based on your veterinarian's guidance.
FAQs about Prednisone for Dogs
Can prednisone shrink tumors in dogs?
Yes, there have been studies that conclude prednisone can reduce inflammation and tumor size in some canine mast cell tumors.
In this study, 20% of the dog respondents had a reduction in tumor volume. Four of them even went into partial remission, and one into complete remission.
What are the signs that prednisone is helping my dog?
You should see an improved appetite, increased energy, reduced swelling, and more comfort in your dog 1-2 hours after taking prednisone.
Is prednisone the same as chemotherapy?
No. Prednisone does not replace any therapy to treat cancer.
However, as we've discussed above, it can be used as part of chemotherapy protocols or in palliative care.
Can I stop prednisone if my dog seems better?
No, stopping suddenly can cause serious side effects to your dog. Always taper off under your vet's supervision.
Are there natural alternatives to prednisone for dogs with cancer?
Some supplements, like CBD oil or turmeric, are explored in integrative care, but none are as fast-acting or reliable as prednisone.
Make sure to consult your vet before switching from prednisone to other alternative medications.
RELATED: CBD for Dogs And Its Interaction With Other Medication
Prednisone for Dogs with Cancer: Before You Go…
Prednisone can be a powerful ally in giving your dog comfort during cancer treatment.
While it’s not a cure, it often improves quality of life and helps reduce symptoms.
Before starting or continuing prednisone for dogs, make sure that you understand what to expect and its possible side effects.
And most importantly, work closely with your vet for the proper dosage, duration, and administration.
If you want to learn more about other dog medications, check out our recommended articles below!
