When your dog is prescribed prednisone, you expect it to help—not create new worries. But what happens when your dog suddenly stops eating while on this medication?
Appetite loss during prednisone treatment can be alarming, especially since this steroid is usually known to increase hunger.
We outline the common causes of a dog not eating while on prednisone, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Prednisone Not Eating — Why It Happens
A dog may stop eating while on prednisone for several reasons, ranging from digestive irritation and nausea to underlying illness or an incorrect dosage. While prednisone can boost appetite in many dogs, it can also disrupt the stomach lining, elevate stress hormones, or unmask hidden conditions that make eating uncomfortable.
Some dogs may also feel nauseated or develop acid reflux, especially if the medication is given without food.
Dog Prednisone Not Eating: Common Causes
1. Stomach Irritation or Ulcers
Prednisone can irritate the stomach lining, particularly if given on an empty stomach. This irritation may cause nausea, vomiting, and refusal to eat.
You might notice your dog drooling, licking their lips, or turning away from food after sniffing it—subtle signs of queasiness. In some cases, dogs may vomit yellow bile, a clear indicator that their stomach is unsettled.
Over time, prednisone may also contribute to stomach ulcers if protective medications like omeprazole or sucralfate aren’t used. This is especially true when combined with NSAIDs such as carprofen or meloxicam.
If your dog’s appetite suddenly decreases while taking prednisone, stomach discomfort should be one of the first possibilities to discuss with your vet.
Read more: Dog Prednisone and Diarrhea (Side effect explained)
2. Nausea or Acid Reflux
Nausea is a frequent side effect of prednisone, especially during the first few days of treatment or after dosage changes. The medication alters hormone levels that can affect digestion and stomach acidity.
Dogs experiencing nausea may not vomit but instead refuse meals, eat grass, or pace restlessly. Acid reflux can also occur when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, creating a burning sensation that discourages eating.
Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and ensuring prednisone is given with food can help reduce nausea and acid irritation. If symptoms persist, your vet may prescribe antacids or suggest adjusting the medication schedule.
3. Incorrect Dosage or Rapid Dose Change
Prednisone must be dosed carefully. Too high a dose can trigger side effects like lethargy, weakness, or loss of appetite, while tapering too quickly after long-term use can cause adrenal insufficiency.
Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the body becomes dependent on prednisone and struggles to produce natural cortisol once the dose drops suddenly. This can cause severe fatigue, appetite loss, vomiting, and even collapse.
Never adjust or stop prednisone on your own. Always follow your vet’s tapering instructions, as abrupt changes can have serious effects on your dog’s appetite and overall health.
4. Underlying Illness or Infection
Sometimes, a dog’s loss of appetite on prednisone isn’t from the medication itself but from an underlying issue. Prednisone suppresses the immune system, which can make dogs more vulnerable to infections or allow existing conditions to worsen.
If your dog is taking prednisone for an inflammatory disease (like allergies, autoimmune disorders, or arthritis), an underlying infection—especially of the urinary tract, skin, or respiratory system—could explain the appetite loss.
Other illnesses, such as pancreatitis or kidney disease, can also become more apparent while a dog is on steroids, as prednisone may mask pain but not eliminate the root problem.
5. Liver Stress or Metabolic Imbalance
Prednisone is processed by the liver, and long-term use can strain this vital organ. Some dogs may develop elevated liver enzymes, leading to nausea, fatigue, and appetite changes.
Metabolic effects, like increased blood sugar or electrolyte imbalance, can also occur during extended treatment. Dogs with Cushing’s-like symptoms or existing liver conditions are more likely to experience these side effects.
Regular bloodwork is essential for monitoring organ function during prednisone therapy—especially if your dog is on it for more than a few weeks.
6. Behavioral Changes and Stress
Prednisone alters hormone balance, which can affect mood, sleep, and anxiety levels. Some dogs become restless and drink or pant excessively, while others withdraw and seem “off.”
This shift in behavior may cause appetite loss, especially if the dog feels uneasy or overstimulated. In multi-pet homes, changes in routine or emotional tension from medication side effects can also discourage eating.
A calm, quiet feeding area and a predictable schedule can help your dog feel secure enough to eat again.
Read more: Dog Prednisone and Thirst (Why it happens)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Not Eating While on Prednisone
If your dog refuses food while on prednisone, start by ensuring the medication is given with a meal or snack. Giving prednisone on an empty stomach can easily trigger nausea or stomach irritation.
Try offering a bland, easy-to-digest meal like boiled chicken and rice to entice appetite. Warming food slightly can make it more aromatic and appealing.
You can also ask your vet about adding a stomach-protective medication such as omeprazole or famotidine. These can reduce acid production and soothe irritation, helping your dog feel comfortable enough to eat again.
If appetite loss persists beyond 24–48 hours, do not skip or adjust prednisone doses on your own. Contact your veterinarian for guidance—they may recommend bloodwork, dosage adjustment, or switching to a different steroid.
Make sure your dog stays hydrated, especially if they are also vomiting or have diarrhea. You can encourage water intake by offering low-sodium chicken broth or adding water to their food once they begin eating again.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Call your vet immediately if your dog’s appetite loss is accompanied by vomiting, black or bloody stool, excessive drooling, or severe lethargy. These can indicate ulcers, bleeding, or organ stress—conditions that require urgent care.
If your dog has been on prednisone for several weeks and suddenly stops eating during tapering, this may signal adrenal insufficiency, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms include weakness, shaking, collapse, or refusal to eat or drink.
Long-term users should have regular vet checkups and blood tests to monitor liver enzymes, kidney function, and electrolytes. Even subtle appetite changes can be an early warning sign that something needs adjusting.
If your dog’s appetite hasn’t improved within two days or seems to worsen despite home care, your veterinarian may suggest reducing the dose or transitioning to an alternative anti-inflammatory medication.
Read more: Dog panting and prednisone (Why it happens)
Key Takeaway
Prednisone can be a powerful medication, but it’s not without side effects. If your dog stops eating while on prednisone, it may be due to nausea, stomach irritation, stress, or even underlying illness.
Always give the medication with food, monitor for vomiting or blood in stool, and keep your vet updated on any changes in appetite or behavior.
With the right adjustments—whether it’s adding a stomach protectant, modifying the dose, or addressing a secondary issue—most dogs can continue prednisone treatment safely and comfortably.
Your attention and timely action make all the difference in helping your dog recover their appetite and well-being.