Why is my kitten suddenly aggressive after steroid shot for herpes?

I'm sorry to hear that Titan has had this problem after his vet visit. I certainly can't tell you the reason for sure, but if Titan has ever had an upper respiratory infection, that virus can live in the body and can be "re-activated" by steroids. I'm attaching a handout with more information about the virus below. https://www.vin.com/apputil/project/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=19239&SAId=1&id=4951824 If that is what has happened, I would expect that Titan should slowly improve over the next couple of days. If the eye discharge is worsening, his eye is swollen, he is holding his eye shut, the discharge becomes yellow or green, or Titan is not eating, then I would certainly have your veterinarian examine him again. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

Steroids, especially by injection, can cause severe side effects in cats, it can affect the gastrointestinal system and even cause diabetes and heart disease in severe cases. you should take Sibby back to the vet ASAP in order to get it checked and treated.

Hi there. Steroids can sometimes cause increased irritability or aggression, so it's possible that the medication might have contributed to her being more grumpy than usual. Dexamethasone generally wears off within 36 hours or so, so if this is the problem, she should be back to her normal self after that.

There are different types of steroid shots. Long term use or high doses can affect their liver or kidneys. There has been studies that some forms can bring on a form of heart failure if already underlying with it. The do make asthma inhalers for cats that may be easier to give. If she is not eating I would have her rechecked to have blood work done and see what else is going on

Excessive drinking and urination, as well as behavioral changes (aggression, hyperactivity and agitation can all occur) can all be attributed to steroid administration. Long acting steroids can last 2-4 weeks, depending upon which exact medication was given. As the steroid wears off, you should see these side effects resolve. Fiddle will return to his normal self again, don't worry! :-)

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Abby. Since I don't know more about this case and why a steroid shot was given, I would advise calling your veterinarian and letting them know what is going on. Steroids usually increase a pet's appetite but in Abby's case, it hasn't, at least not yet. Your vet will most likely want to see Abby for a recheck and reassess what is going on. There are many reasons for anorexia including fever, pain/discomfort, periodontal disease, internal organ disease, etc. Your vet may need to do a minimum database including fecal/blood/urine tests and imaging studies (x-rays/ultrasound). Once a cause is discovered a treatment plan can be put into place to address the anorexia. It is possible you may have to force feed Abby until she starts eating again. Your veterinarian should have some canned diets that can be fed by syringe. Good luck

She will likely still be uncomfortable but should be greatly improved over how she felt before the anal glands were treated. The steroid injection can cause them to act very hungry and thirsty all the time, but you don't need to feed her more than before. If she does eat and drink more, expect more output in the litter box. Any of the injection sites may be sore for a day or so afterward but no longer than that. If you notice any lameness or swelling in those areas, or if she loses her appetite, has vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy or weakness, she'll need to be seen again by your veterinarian right away.