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Estradiol

Prescription
Estrogen Hormone
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
3 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Synthetic or natural estrogen that binds to estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ), regulating gene transcription involved in female reproductive function, bone density, cardiovascular function, and secondary sex characteristics.

At a glance

Class
Estrogen Hormone
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Mismating injection (ECP) is controversial and potentially dangerous (fatal apla
Dose
—
Route
IM
Frequency
Once
🐈

Cat

Extreme caution in cats — profound bone marrow suppression and pyometra risk
Dose
—
Route
IM
Frequency
Per specific protocol

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
—
Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

CBC (weekly for 4 weeks after injection — watch for aplastic anemia)Vaginal cytologyUterine ultrasound

Interactions

Major — 1

Tranexamic Acid
major
Estrogens increase clotting factor synthesis and reduce antithrombin III. Tranexamic acid inhibits fibrinolysis. Combined: significantly increased thromboembolism risk.
Management: Avoid combination. If antifibrinolytic needed in patient on estrogen, monitor closely for thrombosis.

Brands

Other markets

ECP (Estradiol Cypionate)
Premarin (estrogens)
Estrace

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Estradiol?
Estradiol is a estrogen hormone used in pets. Synthetic or natural estrogen that binds to estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ), regulating gene transcription involved in female reproductive function, bone density, cardiovascular function, and secondary sex characteristics.
›What is Estradiol used for in pets?
Estradiol is used in veterinary medicine for: Mismating injection (ECP) is controversial and potentially dangerous (fatal apla; Extreme caution in cats — profound bone marrow suppression and pyometra risk.
›What is the Estradiol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Estradiol is typically dosed as follows — Mismating injection (ECP) is controversial and potentially dangerous (fatal apla: undefined undefined IM Once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Estradiol dose for cats?
For cats, Estradiol is typically dosed as follows — Extreme caution in cats — profound bone marrow suppression and pyometra risk: undefined undefined IM Per specific protocol. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Estradiol need a prescription?
Yes. Estradiol is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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 →