From:
sheziwa@gis.net
Date: 2006-04-04 19:30:54 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] Rethinking Pred
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Hi All--
Going through my FHL folder and reading some previously unread
posts I saw a few regarding Insulinoma and the use of pred which
have motivated me to write something I've been pondering for
awhile:
Because ferrets seem to deal more easily with the side effects of
pred than other pet species like dogs and cats, I think as
caregivers we tend to think of this medication as pretty benign.
Just a reminder, it is Not!
Prednisone/Prednisolone are *steroidal* anti-inflammatories.
While body-builders use anabolic steroids to build muscle, the
action of pred is Catabolic, meaning over time you will see loss of
muscle mass. Yes, an animal on pred has increased appetite--this
doesn't lead to a healthy-looking well-muscled animal though.
Long term use of pred also suppresses the immune system,
making the animal more susceptible to opportunistic infections,
demodectic mange, and slower to heal post-surgically.
Yes, it can be an extremely useful drug when used properly, and it
is very affordable. In some situations, it may be the only option.
>From my experience, ferrets' responses can vary a great deal from
individual to individual. Whether you are just starting your little
one on the med or whether you've been using it for a long time, I
would monitor very carefully. Not just regularly checking BG, but
doing visual and physical assesments:
Are poops normal? Urinations? If he does 'flat ferret' is it because
his BG is low or might he be painful? Is the skin around his mouth
and toes looking irritated? Is he losing weight from his back and
sides while growing a huge pot belly?
Sometimes with insulinoma, waiting til the ferret has maxed out on
his pred dose before doing surgery could be counterproductive.
Please note that I'm not at all advocating against the use of pred or
suggesting anyone stop using it. I just ask that we not be too
complacent about using it.
--skyla
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