# Acepromazine Sedation Dogs: Pre-Anesthetic Dose and Contraindications ## Key Takeaways - Acepromazine, a phenothiazine tranquilizer, is widely used for canine pre-anesthesia due to its sedative and antiemetic properties, but it lacks analgesic effects and can cause significant hypotension via peripheral vasodilation. - Typical pre-anesthetic doses range from 0.01-0.05 mg/kg IM or 0.005-0.02 mg/kg IV, with a notable propofol-sparing effect that reduces induction agent requirements. - Contraindications include hypovolemia, shock, and significant cardiovascular disease; it must be used with extreme caution in brachycephalic breeds due to airway obstruction risks and in epileptic patients due to a potential seizure threshold lowering effect. - Acepromazine impairs thermoregulation, reduces tear production, and can alter spinal reflexes, necessitating careful monitoring of temperature, ocular health, and neurological assessments. - Cardiovascular effects include dose-dependent decreases in mean arterial pressure and stroke index, with minimal direct impact on heart rate, making it a less ideal choice for hemodynamically compromised patients compared to alternatives like dexmedetomidine. --- ## Owner-Facing Summary: What You Need to Know Acepromazine is a tranquilizer commonly used in dogs to reduce anxiety and facilitate anesthesia. It is not a painkiller. The typical pre-anesthetic dose ranges from 0.005 mg/kg to 0.05 mg/kg, administered intramuscularly or intravenously, depending on the patient's health status and the procedure. Acepromazine causes a drop in blood pressure and may lower heart rate. It is contraindicated in dogs with significant cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, shock, or a history of seizures. It should be used with extreme caution in brachycephalic breeds due to the risk of airway obstruction. Always consult a veterinarian before administering any sedative. This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. ## Introduction: The Role of Acepromazine in Canine Anesthesia Acepromazine, a phenothiazine derivative, remains one of the most widely used pre-anesthetic agents in small animal practice. A 2022 survey of primary care veterinarians in the United States found that acepromazine was the most commonly administered drug for premedication, used by 42% of respondents for routine ovariohysterectomies [1]. Its popularity stems from its predictable sedative effects, antiemetic properties, and low cost. However, its cardiovascular effects, particularly hypotension, require careful patient selection and dose adjustment. This article provides a definitive, evidence-based review of acepromazine sedation in dogs, focusing on pre-anesthetic dosing and contraindications. We will examine the drug's pharmacology, its clinical effects based on recent studies, and how it compares to alternative sedatives like dexmedetomidine. The goal is to equip veterinary professionals and informed pet owners with the knowledge to use this drug safely and effectively. ## At a Glance: Acepromazine vs. Dexmedetomidine for Premedication The choice between acepromazine and an alpha-2 agonist like dexmedetomidine is a common clinical decision. Both provide sedation but have distinct profiles. The table below summarizes key differences based on recent comparative studies. | Feature | Acepromazine (ACP) | Dexmedetomidine (DEX) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Drug Class** | Phenothiazine tranquilizer | Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist | | **Typical Pre-Anesthetic Dose (IM)** | 0.005 - 0.05 mg/kg | 1 - 2 µg/kg (0.001 - 0.002 mg/kg) | | **Sedation Quality** | Mild to moderate, reliable [2] | Moderate to profound [2] | | **Propofol Sparing Effect** | Moderate; reduces requirements [3] | Significant; reduces requirements more than ACP [2] | | **Heart Rate (HR)** | Minimal change or slight decrease [4] | Significant decrease (bradycardia) [2] | | **Blood Pressure** | Causes hypotension (decreases MAP) [4] | Causes initial hypertension, then hypotension | | **Vascular Effect** | Peripheral vasodilation | Peripheral vasoconstriction | | **Analgesia** | None | Moderate | | **Reversibility** | No specific reversal agent | Reversible with atipamezole | | **Key Contraindications** | Shock, hypovolemia, cardiac disease, seizures | Significant cardiac disease, pancreatitis, liver disease | **Clinical Note:** In a 2025 study comparing acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg) with dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg), both combined with methadone (0.3 mg/kg), the DEX group showed higher sedation scores and a lower propofol requirement. However, the DEX group also had a significantly lower heart rate and a higher incidence of post-induction hypercapnia [2]. This highlights the trade-off between superior sedation and more pronounced cardiopulmonary depression. ## Pharmacology and Physiology of Acepromazine ### Mechanism of Action Acepromazine works primarily by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, particularly in the basal ganglia and chemoreceptor trigger zone. This action leads to tranquilization, a state of reduced anxiety and motor activity, and provides antiemetic effects. It also has alpha-1 adrenergic blocking activity, which causes peripheral vasodilation and a subsequent drop in arterial blood pressure. This hypotensive effect is a hallmark of the drug and a primary concern in anesthetic protocols. ### Cardiovascular Effects The cardiovascular effects of acepromazine are well-documented. A 2020 study using invasive hemodynamic monitoring in conscious dogs found that all tested doses of acepromazine (cumulative doses of 10, 25, 50, and 100 µg/kg IV) significantly decreased stroke index (SI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and arterial oxygen content (CaO2), with maximum decreases of 16%, 17%, and 21%, respectively [4]. The study also noted a decrease in oxygen delivery index (DO2I) by 26-38% at higher doses [4]. Interestingly, heart rate did not change significantly, and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) was maintained, suggesting the hypotension is primarily due to vasodilation and reduced preload rather than direct myocardial depression [4]. These effects are dose-dependent but can occur even at low doses. A study on oral transmucosal acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg) in healthy dogs found significant decreases in heart rate and non-invasive blood pressure one hour after administration [5]. This confirms that even alternative routes of administration carry cardiovascular implications. ### Respiratory Effects Acepromazine causes minimal respiratory depression in healthy dogs. It does, however, reduce the respiratory rate. In a comparative study, the respiratory rate was lower in dogs premedicated with dexmedetomidine than with acepromazine [2]. While acepromazine alone is not a significant respiratory depressant, it can potentiate the respiratory depressant effects of other anesthetics, such as opioids and propofol. ### Other Physiological Effects - **Tear Production:** Acepromazine reduces tear production. A 2021 study found a significant decrease in tear production (measured by Schirmer Tear Test) for up to 2 hours after acepromazine administration, and for up to 8 hours when combined with methadone [6]. This is an important consideration for patients with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) or those undergoing ophthalmic surgery. - **Body Temperature:** Acepromazine impairs thermoregulation, which can lead to hypothermia, especially in smaller patients or during long procedures. - **Spinal Reflexes:** Acepromazine has been shown to alter spinal reflexes. One study found it increased the patellar reflex and decreased the panniculus reflex [7]. This is a critical consideration for neurologists performing a neurological examination under sedation, as it can confound the localization of a lesion [7]. - **Antiemetic Effect:** Acepromazine is a potent antiemetic due to its dopamine-blocking action. It is often included in protocols to prevent opioid-induced vomiting. ## Pre-Anesthetic Dosing: An Evidence-Based Approach The "correct" dose of acepromazine is a balance between achieving adequate sedation and avoiding adverse cardiovascular effects. It is a drug with a wide therapeutic index, but the margin of safety narrows in compromised patients. ### Standard Dose Range For healthy dogs (ASA I or II), the typical intramuscular (IM) dose of acepromazine is 0.01 to 0.05 mg/kg. The intravenous (IV) dose is generally lower, ranging from 0.005 to 0.02 mg/kg, and should be given slowly to minimize hypotension. The table below summarizes doses used in recent clinical studies. | Study (Year) | Dose (mg/kg) | Route | Co-administered Drugs | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Souza et al. (2025) [2] | 0.02 | IM | Methadone (0.3 mg/kg) | | Iepsen et al. (2026) [8] | 0.02 | IM | Dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg) | | Rollet et al. (2026) [5] | 0.05 | Oral Transmucosal | None | | Dantino et al. (2022) [3] | 0.02 and 0.04 | IV | Butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) | | Petruccione et al. (2021) [9] | 0.02 | IM | Methadone (0.3 mg/kg) | | Rangel et al. (2020) [4] | 0.01 - 0.05 (cumulative) | IV | None | | Klasić et al. (2025) [10] | 0.01 | IM | Methadone (0.3 mg/kg) +/- Dexmedetomidine | ### The Propofol Sparing Effect One of the primary reasons to use acepromazine as a premedication is to reduce the dose of induction agents like propofol. This is known as the "propofol sparing" effect. A 2022 study demonstrated that IV premedication with acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg) combined with butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) reduced the propofol induction dose to 1.7 ± 0.3 mg/kg, compared to 4.4 ± 0.5 mg/kg with saline [3]. This significant reduction can lead to smoother inductions and fewer dose-related side effects of propofol, such as apnea and hypotension. However, the combination of acepromazine with other sedatives may not always yield additive benefits. A 2026 study found that adding acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg) to dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg) did not significantly enhance sedation or further reduce propofol requirements compared to dexmedetomidine alone [8]. The propofol doses were 3.6 ± 0.5 mg/kg for the combination and 3.8 ± 1.1 mg/kg for dexmedetomidine alone, showing no statistical difference [8]. This suggests that for potent sedation, dexmedetomidine may be sufficient, and adding acepromazine only increases the risk of hypotension without added benefit. ### Route of Administration - **Intramuscular (IM):** The most common route for premedication. Onset of sedation is typically 15 to 30 minutes. It provides a more gradual absorption and a slightly longer duration of effect compared to IV. - **Intravenous (IV):** Used when rapid sedation is needed or when the IM route is not feasible. The onset is faster (5-10 minutes), but the hypotensive effect can be more pronounced. It should be administered slowly. - **Oral Transmucosal (OTM):** A newer, non-invasive route. A 2026 study showed that OTM acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg) significantly increased sedation scores and decreased heart rate and blood pressure 1 hour after administration in a hospital setting [5]. This route is being explored for at-home anxiety management prior to visits, often in combination with other drugs like gabapentin and melatonin [11]. ## Contraindications and Cautions Acepromazine is a safe drug in healthy patients but is absolutely or relatively contraindicated in several conditions. ### Absolute Contraindications - **Hypovolemia and Shock:** Acepromazine's vasodilatory effects can precipitate a severe and potentially fatal drop in blood pressure in a patient that is already volume-depleted. It should never be used in animals with hypovolemic, hemorrhagic, or septic shock. - **Known Hypersensitivity:** Any known allergy or adverse reaction to phenothiazines. ### Relative Contraindications and Cautions - **Cardiovascular Disease:** In patients with conditions such as cardiomyopathy, valvular disease, or arrhythmias, the drug's negative inotropic and vasodilatory effects can be poorly tolerated. The hypotension can compromise coronary perfusion and worsen the underlying condition. The decision to use acepromazine in these patients must be based on a risk-benefit analysis and often involves reducing the dose. - **Seizure Disorders:** Acepromazine can lower the seizure threshold in some animals. While not strictly contraindicated, it should be used with caution in epileptic patients or those with a history of seizures. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is a widely accepted clinical caution. - **Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS):** This is a critical consideration. A 2021 study compared acepromazine (20 µg/kg) to dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg), both with methadone, in dogs undergoing BOAS surgery. The study found that dogs receiving acepromazine were less sedated and required more propofol for induction [9]. More importantly, the study highlights the risk of respiratory compromise in these breeds. The sedation from acepromazine can cause relaxation of the upper airway muscles, potentially worsening the obstruction. While the study did not show a significant difference in emergency intubation, the trend toward less sedation and higher propofol requirements is a concern [9]. - **Geriatric or Debilitated Patients:** Older dogs and those with systemic disease are more sensitive to the cardiovascular effects of acepromazine. Dose reduction is generally recommended. - **Liver Dysfunction:** Acepromazine is metabolized by the liver. In patients with severe hepatic insufficiency, drug metabolism may be prolonged, leading to extended sedation. - **Glaucoma:** Acepromazine has weak anticholinergic effects and can cause mydriasis (pupil dilation). In patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, this can increase intraocular pressure. It should be used with caution in these cases. - **Penile Prolapse:** Acepromazine can cause protrusion of the penis in male dogs due to relaxation of the retractor penis muscle. This is usually temporary but can be a concern in breeding animals or if the penis becomes dry and irritated. - **Blood Pressure Instability:** Given its potent hypotensive effects [4], acepromazine should be used cautiously in any patient where blood pressure is already a concern, such as those with chronic kidney disease or on certain cardiac medications. ## Acepromazine in Specific Clinical Scenarios ### Brachycephalic Dogs As mentioned, brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs) present a unique challenge. Their anatomical abnormalities predispose them to upper airway obstruction. The study by Petruccione et al. (2021) is particularly informative. It found that acepromazine premedication resulted in less sedation and a higher propofol requirement compared to dexmedetomidine [9]. This is clinically relevant because a less sedated [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog) may struggle more during induction, increasing the risk of stress and airway compromise. In this population, some anesthetists prefer alpha-2 agonists for more reliable sedation, but these also carry risks. The choice is nuanced and should be made on a case-by-case basis. ### Aggressive or Anxious Dogs For anxious or aggressive dogs, achieving adequate sedation is paramount for both patient and staff safety. A 2023 study evaluated a protocol of gabapentin, melatonin, and oral-transmucosal acepromazine administered by owners at home before a hospital visit. This "GMA protocol" significantly lowered stress scores and increased sedation scores compared to baseline [11]. This demonstrates the utility of acepromazine in a multimodal approach to manage anxiety in a clinical setting. The study also found a correlation between increasing age and lower stress scores post-GMA, suggesting that older dogs may respond more favorably [11]. ### Ophthalmic Procedures The effect of acepromazine on tear production is a significant consideration for ophthalmic surgery. The study by Giannetto et al. (2021) showed that acepromazine alone reduced tear production for up to 2 hours, and the combination with methadone extended this reduction to 8 hours [6]. For procedures where corneal health is critical, or in patients already diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca, this effect could be detrimental. Lubrication protocols should be adjusted accordingly. ### Laparoscopic Surgery A 2025 study compared acepromazine to medetomidine for premedication in dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy. The study found no significant difference in surgical time, difficulty, or complication rate between the two groups [12]. The surgical time was approximately 11.8 minutes for both groups, and the complication rate was 12.5% in both [12]. This suggests that the choice of premedication does not significantly impact the surgical procedure itself, allowing clinicians to base their choice on the patient's cardiovascular status and the desired physiological effects. ## Monitoring and Management During Anesthesia When using acepromazine as part of a pre-anesthetic protocol, diligent monitoring is essential. - **Blood Pressure:** Direct or indirect blood pressure monitoring is crucial. A drop in MAP below 60 mmHg should be treated with IV fluid boluses and, if necessary, vasopressors. The hypotensive effect of acepromazine can be profound [4]. - **Heart Rate and Rhythm:** While acepromazine itself has minimal effect on heart rate [4], it can potentiate bradycardia caused by other drugs, such as opioids. Continuous ECG monitoring is recommended. - **Depth of Anesthesia:** Because acepromazine reduces the requirement for inhalant anesthetics, the vaporizer setting may need to be lowered. Using end-tidal agent monitoring helps prevent inadvertent overdose. - **Temperature:** Acepromazine impairs thermoregulation. Active warming (e.g., forced-air warming blankets) should be used to prevent hypothermia. - **Airway:** In brachycephalic breeds, be prepared for potential airway obstruction. Have emergency airway equipment available. ## Comparison with Alternative Premedicants ### Acepromazine vs. Dexmedetomidine This is the most common clinical comparison. Dexmedetomidine provides superior sedation and analgesia but causes more pronounced bradycardia and initial hypertension [2]. Acepromazine provides mild to moderate sedation, no analgesia, and causes hypotension. The choice depends on the patient's cardiovascular status. For a young, healthy, anxious dog, dexmedetomidine may provide a smoother, more reliable sedation [2]. For a dog with a heart condition where bradycardia is a concern, acepromazine might be a safer choice, provided blood pressure is monitored. ### Acepromazine vs. Medetomidine-Vatinoxan Medetomidine-vatinoxan is a newer combination where vatinoxan is a peripheral alpha-2 antagonist that mitigates the bradycardia and vasoconstriction caused by medetomidine. A 2025 study compared this combination (medetomidine 0.01 mg/kg, vatinoxan 0.2 mg/kg) to acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg), both with methadone. The study found that the medetomidine-vatinoxan group required more cardiovascular interventions (such as fluids or anticholinergics) during anesthesia than the acepromazine group [13]. This suggests that while the combination has benefits, acepromazine may still be a more hemodynamically stable option in certain contexts. ### Acepromazine vs. Azaperone Azaperone is another phenothiazine tranquilizer. A 2026 study compared the two drugs and found that azaperone produced moderate sedation without inducing bradycardia or clinically significant hypotension [14]. This is in contrast to acepromazine, which is known for its hypotensive effects [4]. Azaperone could be considered as an alternative in patients where blood pressure preservation is a priority, although it is less commonly used in small animal practice in North America. ## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian This article provides a detailed overview of acepromazine use based on peer-reviewed literature. However, it has limitations. The studies cited involve specific populations of healthy dogs, and the results may not be generalizable to every patient. Breed-specific reactions can vary, and this article cannot predict how an individual dog will respond to the drug. The doses and protocols discussed are guidelines, not a substitute for professional clinical judgment. **You should contact a veterinarian immediately if:** - Your dog has a known health condition and you are considering giving any sedative. - Your dog's breathing becomes labored, or their gums turn blue or pale after receiving a sedative. - Your dog collapses or is unable to stand. - Your dog's heart rate is very slow or irregular. - Your dog has a seizure. Never administer acepromazine to a dog without a direct prescription and instructions from a veterinarian. The risks of improper dosing, especially in a compromised animal, are severe. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### 1. What is the typical pre-anesthetic dose of acepromazine for a dog? The typical pre-anesthetic dose of acepromazine for a healthy dog is 0.01 to 0.05 mg/kg administered intramuscularly, or 0.005 to 0.02 mg/kg given slowly intravenously. ### 2. How long does it take for acepromazine to sedate a dog? After intramuscular injection, sedation typically begins within 15 to 30 minutes, with peak effects seen around 30 to 45 minutes. ### 3. How long does acepromazine sedation last in dogs? The sedative effects of acepromazine can last for several hours, typically 4 to 8 hours, but can be longer in some dogs, especially those with liver disease. ### 4. What are the most important contraindications for using acepromazine in dogs? The most critical contraindications are hypovolemia, shock, and significant cardiovascular disease, as acepromazine causes a drop in blood pressure. It should also be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures. ### 5. Can acepromazine be used in brachycephalic breeds like Pugs or Bulldogs? Yes, but with extreme caution. Studies show it may provide less reliable sedation in these breeds and can relax the upper airway, potentially worsening breathing problems [9]. ### 6. Does acepromazine reduce the amount of propofol needed for anesthesia? Yes, acepromazine has a significant propofol-sparing effect. One study showed that combining it with butorphanol reduced the propofol dose needed for induction by more than half [3]. ### 7. Is acepromazine a painkiller? No, acepromazine is a tranquilizer and has no analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It is always used in combination with opioids or other pain medications for painful procedures. ### 8. Can I give my dog acepromazine at home to calm them down? You should only give acepromazine at home if your veterinarian has prescribed it for that specific purpose. Oral transmucosal acepromazine is being studied for this use, but it still has significant effects on blood pressure and should only be used under veterinary supervision [5]. ## Sources [1] [Anesthetic and analgesic techniques used for dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomies in general practice in the United States.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36038461/) [2] [Effect of acepromazine or dexmedetomidine associated with methadone on anesthetic induction with propofol at a rate of 1 mg/kg/min in healthy dogs: A randomized clinical trial.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41036360/) [3] [Effects of intravenous acepromazine and butorphanol on propofol dosage for induction of anesthesia in healthy Beagle dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35606286/) [4] [Hemodynamic, respiratory and sedative effects of progressively increasing doses of acepromazine in conscious dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32362549/) [5] [Oral transmucosal administration of acepromazine to healthy dogs leads to increased sedation scores in a hospital setting.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41485484/) [6] [Evaluation of Tear Production as Measured by Schirmer Test I in Dogs after Acepromazine and Acepromazine-Methadone Premedication.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34827748/) [7] [Effects of acepromazine, xylazine and propofol on spinal reflexes in healthy dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39315717/) [8] [Acepromazine does not enhance sedation or reduce propofol requirements when combined with dexmedetomidine in dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42214615/) [9] [Comparison between dexmedetomidine and acepromazine in combination with methadone for premedication in brachycephalic dogs undergoing surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33637411/) [10] [Sedative and cardiovascular effects of premedication with acepromazine, methadone and dexmedetomidine in sevoflurane-anaesthetized dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40731195/) [11] [Gabapentin, melatonin, and acepromazine combination prior to hospital visits decreased stress scores in aggressive and anxious dogs in a prospective clinical trial.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37495226/) [12] [Influence of acepromazine vs. medetomidine on surgical time and complication rate during canine laparoscopic ovariectomy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40065731/) [13] [Medetomidine-vatinoxan-methadone and acepromazine-methadone: comparison of sedative and cardiovascular properties as a preanaesthetic medication in healthy dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41331471/) [14] [Comparison of the Sedative and Cardiovascular Effects of Azaperone and Acepromazine in Dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42193815/) [15] [Effect of Classical Music on Depth of Sedation and Induction Propofol Requirements in Dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37505838/) [16] [Dose requirement and cardiopulmonary effects of diluted and undiluted propofol for induction of anaesthesia in dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33423952/) [17] [Sedative and cardiopulmonary effects of intramuscular combinations of hydromorphone, acepromazine, dexmedetomidine, and glycopyrrolate followed by intravenous propofol and inhalant isoflurane anesthesia in healthy dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35973002/) [18] [Effects of acepromazine and dexmedetomidine, followed by propofol induction and maintenance with isoflurane anaesthesia, on the microcirculation of Beagle dogs evaluated by sidestream dark field imaging: an experimental trial.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35568677/) [19] [Comparison of the sedative effects of three nalbuphine doses, alone or combined with acepromazine, in dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35930780/) [20] [Conventional and advanced echocardiographic assessment of systolic function in dogs sedated with dexmedetomidine or acepromazine.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34740044/) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Drontal Plus Dewormer: Broad-Spectrum Dose Guide by Weight](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/calculators-clinical-tools/drontal-plus-dewormer-broad-spectrum-dose-guide-by-weight) * [Panacur Fenbendazole Dewormer: Dog Fecal Parasite Treatment Schedule](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/calculators-clinical-tools/panacur-fenbendazole-dewormer-dog-fecal-parasite-treatment-schedule) * [Prednisolone for Cats: Feline Safe Steroid Dose and Autoimmune](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/calculators-clinical-tools/prednisolone-for-cats-feline-safe-steroid-dose-and-autoimmune)