Triamcinolone acetonide, oftentimes referred to as simply triamcinolone or by the brand name drugs Vetalog and Panalog, is one of many types of anti inflammatory medicines that can be used to treat a cat's reaction to injury or disease. Of the hundreds of drugs that are designed to reduce inflammation and discomfort that are brought about by these causes, triamcinolone falls into the category of steroid drugs. It is a powerful tool for treating a cat's conditions, but it also has certain side effects and risks which you must be aware of before you provide your cat with this medicine.
Triamcinolone Overview
Triamcinolone is a steroid drug that is registered for use in both humans and animals. Because of the potential for human abuse of this medicine in a recreational way, it's important to be aware of the procedure that will be necessary for you to receive this medicine for your cat. You'll have to consult with a vet with special permission to provide prescriptions for this medicine, and you must control it very carefully. Be sure that you receive a prescription for the veterinary formulation of the drug only; do not provide your cat with the human version of triamcinolone acetonide under any circumstances.
This medicine is used to reduce inflammation due to various diseases like gingivitis, arthritis and various eye diseases. It can also help to reduce allergic reactions in some cases.
Using Triamcinolone for a Cat
Triamcinolone comes in a variety of different formulations and administration types, depending upon the way that you intend to use it. It is most commonly given as either an injection, in cases of arthritis or other muscle inflammation, or as an oral tablet or syrup. Consult with your vet about the proper type of medicine to give to your pet based on his condition. Dosing of the medicine must be handled carefully in order to ensure proper treatment, and is dependent upon your cat's weight and overall health condition.
Side Effects and Risks of Triamcinolone
Steroid drugs tend to be very powerful tools, but they also have a wider variety of side effects and risks than many other medicines. Do not give your pet this medicine if he is scheduled to undergo surgery in the coming few days. Similarly, avoid use if your pet is suffering from a fungal or viral infection. Pregnant animals should similarly not be treated with triamcinolone.
The most commonly noted side effects of this medicine include the following:
- Vomiting
- Panting
- Increased urination
- Increased appetite
- Changes in mood
Because steroids remain in your pet's system for many days, it can be dangerous to provide this medicine to your pet before you recognize his potential for an allergic reaction. Consult with your vet about all other conditions and medicines in your cat's system before you initialize the treatment with triamcinolone, and alert your vet of any side effects or potentially suspicious developments that occur after you give the medicine to your cat as well.