Hydrophilic bile acid that replaces toxic hydrophobic bile acids, reduces cholesterol saturation in bile, has anti-apoptotic and immunomodulatory effects, and stimulates bile flow (choleresis). Cytoprotective for hepatocytes.
At a glance
Class
Bile Acid / Hepatoprotective Agent
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture
Dosing
Used for cholangiohepatitis, primary hepatic diseases, gallbladder mucocele (dis
Used for cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis complex, hepatic lipidosis, and triaditi
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
Hepatic enzymes (ALT, ALP, GGT) every 3–6 monthsAbdominal ultrasound for gallbladder responseBilirubin
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 Ursodiol?
Ursodiol is a bile acid / hepatoprotective agent used in pets. Hydrophilic bile acid that replaces toxic hydrophobic bile acids, reduces cholesterol saturation in bile, has anti-apoptotic and immunomodulatory effects, and stimulates bile flow (choleresis). Cytoprotective for hepatocytes.
›What is Ursodiol used for in pets?
Ursodiol is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for cholangiohepatitis, primary hepatic diseases, gallbladder mucocele (dis; Used for cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis complex, hepatic lipidosis, and triaditi.
›What is the Ursodiol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ursodiol is typically dosed as follows — Used for cholangiohepatitis, primary hepatic diseases, gallbladder mucocele (dis: 10–15 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ursodiol dose for cats?
For cats, Ursodiol is typically dosed as follows — Used for cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis complex, hepatic lipidosis, and triaditi: 10–15 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Ursodiol need a prescription?
Yes. Ursodiol 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