Indications for Prednisone Use

• Prednisone is a prescription medicine often used in the treatment of injuries and respiratory and digestive tract diseases.
  
  

Short-term Side Effects

• Prednisone use for a week or less can lead to high levels of thirst and hunger. These conditions should be monitored to avoid obesity.
  
  

Long-term Side Effects

• Digestive tract ulcers and diabetes can occur after long term-drug use, as can muscle and behavioral changes. Treatments with Prednisone lasting longer than a week or two should be monitored closely by a veterinarian.
  
  

Monitoring Diabetes

• Blood tests for glucose levels are used to diagnose diabetes. Treatments can include insulin injections.
  
  

Symptoms of Side Effects

• While diabetes is not a readily visible side effect, there are other signs dog owners should watch for, including poor coat condition, diarrhea, vomiting and weight gain.