Missed dose of Prednisolone; what do?

I'm really worried and could use some advice. This morning, in the chaos of getting everyone out the door, I completely forgot to give my cat her dose of Prednisolone. I usually give it to her every morning to help with her serious allergies. She's already dealing with a lot, and I feel awful for messing up her routine. It's been about 9 hours since I should have given her the medication, and I’m not sure if I should give it to her now or just skip it and continue with the regular schedule tomorrow. Has anyone dealt with this before? Should I call my vet, or is it okay to just resume the normal schedule? She seems fine, just her usual self, but I don't want to risk any side effects. Any advice would really help ease my mind, thanks!

Answer

Thanks for your question! Missing a dose of Prednisolone, a steroid commonly prescribed for inflammation and immune-related issues in pets, can understandably cause concern. Fortunately, a single missed dose isn't typically a reason to panic. Here’s what you can do:



First, if you remember the missed dose within 12 hours of the scheduled time, you can generally give it right away. However, if it’s closer to the time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue with the regular schedule. Doubling up on the medication could lead to unwanted side effects.



It’s important to monitor your pet for any unusual symptoms, such as increased thirst, urination, or lethargy, which are potential signs that warrant a closer look. If these symptoms arise, or if your pet seems unwell, it might be best to consult with a vet.



For future doses, keeping a medication log or setting reminders can help ensure doses aren’t missed. However, chronic steroid treatments should be managed carefully, so keep an eye on your pet’s overall health and behavior.



If you’re unsure or if your pet exhibits any concerning signs, I encourage you to set up a video consult with Dial A Vet for personalized advice.

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