Veterinarians frequently choose prednisolone over prednisone for feline patients due to superior hepatic metabolism. Prednisone requires conversion to prednisolone in the liver to become active. Cats possess lower levels of the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) enzyme, responsible for this conversion. This means a significant portion of prednisone remains inactive, leading to inconsistent therapeutic effects.
Prednisolone, already in its active form, bypasses this metabolic step, ensuring consistent drug levels and predictable therapeutic responses. This leads to better management of inflammatory conditions and improves treatment outcomes.
The difference in metabolism translates to different dosing requirements. A higher dose of prednisone would be needed to achieve the same therapeutic effect as a lower dose of prednisolone. This reduces the risk of side effects associated with higher glucocorticoid doses.
| Prednisone | Requires hepatic conversion to prednisolone; inefficient in cats | Inconsistent drug levels; higher doses needed, increasing side effect risk |
| Prednisolone | Directly active; no hepatic conversion needed | Consistent drug levels; lower doses needed, reducing side effect risk |
Choosing prednisolone simplifies treatment, minimizes the risk of adverse reactions, and provides more reliable therapeutic efficacy in cats. Always consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of your cat’s condition.
