my cat has COPD

[Karen]

Steroids are not dangerous just because they are labeled "steroids" - that covers a whole range of medications. I have been given steroids (prednisone) for asthma attacks that got bad enough to be hospitalized. Yes, there were side effects - I got pink cheeks, and felt incredibly hungry, but it knocked back the inflammation and I was able to breathe again. And once the crisis was past, I gradually "stepped down" and the side effects went away.

This may be similar to what they want to do for your kitty. I know some people end up on low-dose prednisone long term, but breathing IS important!

[Lizzie]

I'm sorry you are going through this with your cat, it must be very scary for you.

Cats cope with steroids (prednisolone, not prednisone) very well, better than humans, and can be on them for years. I've fostered cats with asthma and early onset arthritis, and prednisolone was the only way to give them a good quality of life, and for many years. It's called the "feel good drug" and does make cats feel generally better. Just make sure she gets plenty of fluids. Does she eat wet food?

[carole]

I have to agree on the comments made on steriods, Ash was on them for renal failure and Ellie was on them for her mouth condition, like all drugs they have their good and bad things, but cats tolerate them extremely well, so much better than humans, one side effect is it lowers their immunity ,so be aware of that, but if your vet has recommended them i would go for it if i were you, in the long run will help your cat so much.