Natural androgen that binds to androgen receptors, promoting male sexual characteristics, spermatogenesis, libido, and anabolic muscle and bone development. Stimulates erythropoiesis via EPO.
At a glance
Class
Androgenic Steroid Hormone
Schedule
Controlled Substance
Storage
Store at room temperature; controlled substance storage required
Dosing
Used for testosterone-responsive urinary incontinence in male dogs, aplastic ane
Frequency
Depends on ester (see notes)
Limited use in cats; occasionally for aplastic anemia or hormonal disorders
Safety
Prostate size (palpation or ultrasound)PCVHepatic enzymesBehavioral changes
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a androgenic steroid hormone used in pets. Natural androgen that binds to androgen receptors, promoting male sexual characteristics, spermatogenesis, libido, and anabolic muscle and bone development. Stimulates erythropoiesis via EPO.
›What is Testosterone used for in pets?
Testosterone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for testosterone-responsive urinary incontinence in male dogs, aplastic ane; Limited use in cats; occasionally for aplastic anemia or hormonal disorders.
›What is the Testosterone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Testosterone is typically dosed as follows — Used for testosterone-responsive urinary incontinence in male dogs, aplastic ane: 1–2 mg/kg IM Depends on ester (see notes). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Testosterone dose for cats?
For cats, Testosterone is typically dosed as follows — Limited use in cats; occasionally for aplastic anemia or hormonal disorders: undefined undefined IM q4–6 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Testosterone need a prescription?
Testosterone is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
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.
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