Hydrocortisone Dosing for Dogs, Cats, Horses, Foals By Weight
Important Safety Information
High dose IV hydrocortisone for shock is not recommended. Use with caution in animals with diabetes, infections, or gastrointestinal ulcers.
Long-term use requires gradual withdrawal to avoid adrenal insufficiency.
Reference Source
Saunders Handbook of VETERINARY DRUGS, Page 408-409
Weight Unit Converter ▲
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Standard Dosage Guidelines
Small Animal Dosage
| Species | Route | Dosage | Frequency | Indication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | PO | 1-2 mg/kg | q12h | Replacement therapy |
| PO | 2.5-5 mg/kg | q12h | Anti-inflammatory | |
| Cats | PO | 1-2 mg/kg | q12h | Replacement therapy |
| PO | 2.5-5 mg/kg | q12h | Anti-inflammatory | |
| Dogs/Cats | IV | 5 mg/kg | q12h | Anti-inflammatory |
| IV | 50-150 mg/kg | For 2 doses, 8h apart | Shock (not recommended) |
Large Animal Dosage
| Species | Route | Dosage | Frequency | Indication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horses | IV | 5 mg/kg | q12h | Anti-inflammatory |
| Foals | IV | 1-3 mg/kg | Daily | Replacement therapy for critical illness |