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My dog has bloody diarrhea on prednisone. Can I skip a dose?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 2 years old | 3.5 lbs

My 20 month old 3 lb chihuahua has been on prednisone for a yr for his legs, but just developed bloody diarrhea yesterday. He's not playful as usual and seems a bit weak. I was already thinking of weaning him off the med and since I can't get him to eat today, can I just skip today and then just go to every other day? I know not to give it on an empty stomach. That is always hard because some days he will only eat a few bites of food. He's always been that way, though.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 22nd, 2017

No, I would not recommend doing this. Sidewinder has been on prednisone for quite a long time, and skipping days should not be done. He does have to be weaned off of it slowly, and I would not do this without veterinary supervision. I would try to wrap it in some cheese or peanut butter to get him to eat it. I would also have him seen by a vet as soon as possible. Long term prednisone use can cause GI ulcers, and that could be the cause of his bloody diarrhea. Because he's having bloody diarrhea and not eating, I would take him into an ER vet or find a vet on call to see him now. That vet can advise you on what to do with the prednisone as well (bring the bottle with you to the appointment).

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    No, I would not recommend doing this. Sidewinder has been on prednisone for quite a long time, and skipping days should not be done. He does have to be weaned off of it slowly, and I would not do this without veterinary supervision. I would try to wrap it in some cheese or peanut butter to get him to eat it. I would also have him seen by a vet as soon as possible. Long term prednisone use can cause GI ulcers, and that could be the cause of his bloody diarrhea. Because he's having bloody diarrhea and not eating, I would take him into an ER vet or find a vet on call to see him now. That vet can advise you on what to do with the prednisone as well (bring the bottle with you to the appointment).

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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