16 y.o. Cat diagnosed with Lymphoma, Possible to increase Prednisolone dose or is it time to accept that this is the end?

I'm really struggling with a decision and could use some guidance. My dear cat Alfie, who’s been my companion for 16 years, was recently diagnosed with lymphoma. We've been on a roller coaster of emotions in the past few weeks. The vet prescribed Prednisolone, which seemed to help initially, but lately, he's been having more off days than on. He sleeps most of the time, has lost a lot of weight, and just seems so tired and frail. I know he’s old, and this could be his way of telling me it’s time, but I can’t help but wonder if adjusting his Prednisone might give us a bit more quality time together. Have any of you been in a similar situation? Is it worth asking the vet about increasing his dosage, or should I begin coming to terms with letting him go? My heart aches just at the thought, but I want to do what's best for him. Any advice or similar experiences would really help. Thanks in advance.

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Answer

Hello there,



I'm really sorry to hear about your cat's diagnosis. Lymphoma can be quite challenging to manage, especially in older cats, and it’s understandable to wonder about adjusting treatments as your cat's condition changes.



Prednisolone is commonly used to help reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of lymphoma symptoms. Increasing the dose might improve comfort temporarily, but it’s crucial that any adjustments be made under veterinary supervision. Larger doses can have side effects, like increased thirst, urination, or higher risk of infections.



At home, focus on keeping your cat comfortable by offering a warm, quiet place to rest and easy access to food, water, and their litter box. Since these cats can become picky eaters, tempting them with small amounts of their favorite foods might help maintain their strength.



Monitor your cat for signs of discomfort, such as trouble breathing, significant weight loss, lack of appetite, or withdrawal from social interaction. These signs could indicate that your cat's condition is progressing, and it might be time to discuss further options.



I recommend setting up a video consult with us on Dial A Vet. We can review your cat's current medications, assess her symptoms, and provide guidance tailored to her situation.

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