Prednisone Tapering Schedule

Clinical judgment required. This calculator is a decision-support tool, not a substitute for veterinary consultation.

Prednisone Tapering ScheduleCanineFeline

Generate a week-by-week prednisone/prednisolone tapering schedule for dogs and cats. Calculates dose reductions based on indication, current dose, and body weight. Standard veterinary taper: reduce dose by 25% every 2–4 weeks once disease is controlled. For immune-mediated diseases (IMHA, IMTP, IMN), initial dose is typically 2 mg/kg/day tapered over 3–6 months. For allergic and anti-inflammatory uses, shorter tapers are appropriate. Used for steroid tapering, prednisone weaning, corticosteroid dose reduction planning, immunosuppressive therapy management, and preventing adrenal crisis from abrupt discontinuation. Common queries: 'prednisone taper schedule for a dog' or 'how to wean off prednisolone'.

mg/day
Current Dose per kg
mg/kg/day
Estimated Taper Duration
weeks
Weeks 1–2 Dose
mg/day
Weeks 3–4 Dose
mg/day
Weeks 5–6 Dose
mg/day
Weeks 7–8 Dose
mg/day
Prednisone Tapering Schedule | VetChamp