Steroids (short for corticosteroids) are synthetic drugs that closely resemble cortisol, a hormone that your body produces naturally. Steroids work by decreasing inflammation and reducing the activity of the immune system. They are used to treat a variety of inflammatory diseases and conditions.

Key facts about steroids for dogs and cats:

• Used for emergencies to decrease inflammation, allergic reactions, and cancer.

Potential side effects include:

• stomach ulcers.
• delayed wound healing.
• thyroid hormone suppression.
• immune suppression.
• increased appetite.
• fluid retention.
• weak bones.
• thinning hair/hair loss.