Non-steroidal synthetic estrogen that binds estrogen receptors, increasing urethral sphincter tone by upregulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the urethra and sensitizing urethral smooth muscle to sympathetic stimulation. Used for estrogen-responsive urinary incontinence.
At a glance
Class
Synthetic Estrogen / Urethral Tone Agent
Storage
Store at room temperature per compounding pharmacy instructions
Dosing
Used for spayed female dogs with estrogen-responsive USMI
Frequency
q24h induction; then weekly
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
CBC every 6 months (aplastic anemia risk)Vaginal cytology periodicallySigns of bone marrow suppression
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Diethylstilbestrol (DES)?
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic estrogen / urethral tone agent used in pets. Non-steroidal synthetic estrogen that binds estrogen receptors, increasing urethral sphincter tone by upregulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the urethra and sensitizing urethral smooth muscle to sympathetic stimulation. Used for estrogen-responsive urinary incontinence.
›What is Diethylstilbestrol (DES) used for in pets?
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for spayed female dogs with estrogen-responsive USMI; Rarely used in cats.
›What is the Diethylstilbestrol (DES) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is typically dosed as follows — Used for spayed female dogs with estrogen-responsive USMI: 0.1–1 mg/dog PO q24h induction; then weekly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Diethylstilbestrol (DES) dose for cats?
For cats, Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used in cats: 0.05–0.1 mg/cat PO Weekly. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Diethylstilbestrol (DES) need a prescription?
Yes. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database