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My dog is pooping blood while on prednisone. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 13 lbs

My dog is on prednisone and Tramadol for a slipped disc. He is now pooping blood. Should we be concerned? And should we give him an anti diarrhea?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 4th, 2022

Oh no, that isn't good. Prednisone can cause bleeding in the GI tract. This is very concerning, and you need to contact Milo's veterinarian immediately so they can advise you further, as they may want you start tapering down the medication. You can't just stop prednisone suddenly, it has to be tapered off, but pooping blood is serious. I would not give him anti-diarrhea medication, please either call his vet now or take him into his vet right away. I hope this helps.

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11Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 1st, 2017

    Prednisone can cause GI ulceration, which could lead to bloody diarrhea and frank blood coming from the anus. I would take Murphy into an ER vet now, as frank blood from the anus is not normal and is serious. He may need a gut protectant if he is suffering from GI ulceration, which the vet can prescribe. I would not wait until the morning, please see the ER vet now.

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