My dog has heavy breathing on prednisone for ear hematoma. Normal?

While allergic reactions can reoccur it can be very difficult determine what is triggering them. It is very rare for dogs to develop life threatening anaphylactic reactions, and the biggest concern with an allergic reaction is swelling around the throat which does not happen often. If you think Koda is having difficulty breathing you should see a veterinarian, but prednisone can sometimes cause panting.

Prednisone can cause panting, but it shouldn't change the character of their breathing. (The panting should be the same sound/speed as his normal pant is). If it doesn't seem like he's just panting, get him in to see your vet. If he has other symptoms as well (coughing, labored breathing, vomiting, lethargy, etc) please seek emergency care. Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hello, thank you for your question about Emma. Rapid breathing could be a side effect of the prednisone but could also be a sign of progressive IMHA. I would recommend counting the number of time Emma breaths in a minute; if the rate is >60 breaths a minute this would be concerning. I would also recommend checking the color of her gums/tongue - if they appear pale or blue or have any color other than pink this is also concerning and could be indicative of progression of her IMHA. I would also be concerned if she is experiencing weakness or wobbly gait. These signs could also be a side effect of the prednisone but I would recommend evaluating the above things first to look for any obvious concerns that require immediate veterinary care. Hope this helps, good luck!

Panting is a common side effect of prednisone, so unfortunately it will probably continue as long as he is taking this medication at her current dose. If it's bothersome to him or you, I would recommend calling his regular vet in the morning to discuss your concerns - you may be able to decrease Satchmo's dose or discontinue the medication earlier than planned, but I would not do this without speaking to your vet first because it could be dangerous depending on his underlying medical condition.

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! In my professional opinion, this is a much higher dose than what I would use. I normally do not exceed 60mg daily regardless of the size of the dog just because of the potential side effects such as gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding as well as the undesirable side effects you describe. I recommend you bring up your concerns to the prescribing veterinarian who knows the case well, to taper his dose down slowly. It is important to not discontinue or lower too much this medication acutely as problems can arise with this approach. For now, look for any evidence of gastrointestinal bleeding such as black, tarry stools. If observed, let your veterinarian know right away. Good luck with your boy!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Nancy. Given that it's not bothering her, and it does not look infected in the pictures, it's fine to wait until the morning when you can call the vet. I hope this helps!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Hypno! The medications likely need more time to work. I would call your Vet when they open and discuss having prednisone and/or another pain medication prescribed until he is more comfortable. If he is still reacting to the medication like that in a few days then he may be having a reaction to it and another ear drop might need to be tried. I hope this helps and I wish Hypno the best!