Is Vetoryl Safe for Dogs?
Is Vetoryl safe for dogs? I’ve heard many people on social media sites asking this question. Some have said it killed their dogs and other animals, while others have said that it’s worked well for them. So what is happening here? Is Vetoryl being banned or is the FDA recalling it because it actually kills dogs?

“Vetoryl killed my dog. It exacerbated the health conditions in my dog’s body which led to his death. I didn’t find out that Vetoryl can cause very serious side effects.”
“My dog died while on treatment with Vetoryl. I want to share the story with others so that they can be aware of the risks of this drug and make the right choices when it comes to their pets’ health.”
“I lost my beloved dog last week after he was prescribed Vetoryl. He had Cushing’s Disease and was diagnosed a year ago, although we believe he had it for much longer.
We first noticed that he would pant excessively, even when sleeping, so we took him off the medicine for a few days to see if it stopped. Then he started panting more and couldn’t sleep without it.
The next day, he started shivering and could barely get up. We rushed him to the emergency vet where they did an ultrasound and determined that his liver was failing.
They gave us several options: euthanasia, blood transfusions (which would only buy him a few days), or hospitalization for 5-7 days with fluids and potential surgery. I opted for the hospital option because Max was still alert, responsive, and seemed ‘normal’ otherwise.
After 3 days at the hospital, they concluded that there was nothing else they could do and recommended euthanasia.”
Is Vetoryl safe for dogs?
Vetoryl® is generally well-tolerated by most dogs, and it is advised that you follow the directions and use the medication only as prescribed. However, many dog owners are wary about using this prescription drug because of the many side effects that have been reported.
Some of the symptoms associated with Vetoryl include:
- Rapid breathing
- Lack of coordination
- Seizures
- Lethargy
- General malaise
- Vomiting and diarrhea
It is important to watch your dog closely while they are on any new medicine to make sure they don’t have any negative side effects. Some of these side effects can be serious and require immediate attention, so it’s important to know what to look for.
What happens if a dog gets too much Vetoryl?
A Vetoryl overdose can cause a dog to become lethargic, vomit, and seizure. In some cases, the side effects can be serious, even life-threatening.
The main ingredient in Vetoryl is trilostane, which works by blocking the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands. This can be a very effective way to treat Cushing’s disease, but it comes with some risks. One of those risks is an overdose, which can occur if you give your dog too much Vetoryl without knowing it.
“I gave my dog Vetoryl twice a day, and he died. This is what happened. My vet prescribed Vetoryl for my dog’s Cushing’s disease. He had been urinating all over the house, panting, and losing weight. So I asked my vet if this medicine was safe to give him long-term and he said yes that it would not hurt his liver like the other drug (Lysodren) that he could have prescribed. Well, on Jan 26th, my dog died. I did not know until after he passed away that there are many people out there who have lost their dogs to this drug too!”
What drugs interact with Vetoryl?
Trilostane should be used cautiously in dogs with lung, kidney, or liver disease, or diabetes mellitus. It’s also important to tell your veterinarian about any other medications your pet is taking before giving Vetoryl® (trilostane). Some drugs that may interact with Vetoryl include:
- ACE inhibitors
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone)
- Aminoglutethimide
- Ketoconazole
What are the clinical signs of Cushing’s disease in a dog?
Cushing’s disease is caused by abnormal secretion of corticotropin from the pituitary gland, leading to an overproduction of cortisol. Dogs with Cushing’s disease may have some or all of the following clinical signs:
- Increased drinking and urination
- Increased hunger
- Weight loss and muscle wasting
- Potbelly appearance
- Thinning hair coat
- Panting and lethargy
- Recurrent skin infections
Positive reviews of Vetoryl
Vetoryl reviewers are impressed by how well the medication works, with many saying it helped to keep their pets feeling good for years. The capsules are easy to administer, and most dogs don’t mind taking them.
However, there’s some concern about the high cost of Vetoryl. Many owners say they had to switch medications because they couldn’t afford it anymore. There are also reports of side effects like upset stomach and diarrhea.
If you’re looking for a more affordable treatment option, check out our review of the best dog adrenal supplements.
“Vetoryl is the only product that doesn’t seem to make my dog sad, and I have tried a LOT. It has been a lifesaver for my dog. I thought that he was going to pass away due to his hyperthyroid, but luckily with Vetoryl it has kept him alive for a lot longer than originally expected.”
“Vetoryl did not put my dog to sleep. He was 13 years old, and his adrenal glands were failing, which made his life miserable. We had to make the decision to put him down. Vetoryl was a miracle drug for him. He went from being lethargic and grumpy to happy and playful. The cost of Vetoryl is nothing compared to the cost of the other drugs that are available that have the same side effects as Vetoryl but with less success. I’m not in any way trying to be rude – I just feel bad that your dog had problems with this drug since it gave my dog such a great quality of life for the last year or so of his life.”
“I have been using Vetoryl for my Cushings Dog. He is doing very well. He had the side effect of diarrhea but that has since subsided. I am very pleased with this product and would recommend it to anyone who is having problems with their pet. Have recommended it to friends who have older dogs and I will continue to recommend it.”
“My 12-year-old Boston Terrier with adrenal issues used this for about 2 years now, I believe it does work as her symptoms have improved greatly over the years. It does need a vet prescription and there are side effects of panting and some diarrhea which can be controlled with diet changes and probiotics. All in all, we are satisfied with this medication.”
FAQs about Vetoryl for dogs
1. What is Vetoryl and how does it work?
Vetoryl is a medication that is commonly used to treat Cushing’s disease in dogs. This disease occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol, which can lead to a variety of health problems. Vetoryl works by inhibiting the production of cortisol, which can help manage the symptoms of Cushing’s disease.
2. What are the most common side effects of Vetoryl?
The most common side effects of Vetoryl include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they typically resolve on their own within a few days.
3. Are there any serious side effects of Vetoryl that I should watch out for?
While serious side effects are rare, there are a few that you should be aware of. These include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and collapse. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your vet right away.
4. Can Vetoryl interact with other medications my dog is taking?
Yes, Vetoryl can interact with other medications, so it’s important to let your vet know about any other medications your dog is taking. In particular, it’s important to avoid giving Vetoryl with medications that can affect the liver or the adrenal glands.
5. How long does it take for Vetoryl to start working?
Vetoryl can take several weeks to start working, and the full effects of the medication may not be seen for several months. It’s important to be patient and to follow your vet’s instructions carefully.
6. Can I give Vetoryl to my pregnant or nursing dog?
No, Vetoryl is not recommended for use in pregnant or nursing dogs, as it can have negative effects on fetal development and milk production.
7. What should I do if I miss a dose of Vetoryl?
If you miss a dose of Vetoryl, it’s important to give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose, it’s best to skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule.
8. How should Vetoryl be stored?
Vetoryl should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
9. Can Vetoryl cause liver damage in dogs?
Yes, in rare cases, Vetoryl can cause liver damage in dogs. This is why it’s important to have your dog’s liver function monitored regularly while they are taking Vetoryl. Your vet may recommend blood tests every few months to check your dog’s liver function.
10. Can Vetoryl cause dehydration in dogs?
Yes, Vetoryl can cause dehydration in dogs, especially if they experience vomiting or diarrhea as a side effect. It’s important to make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water at all times, and to contact your vet if you notice any signs of dehydration, such as lethargy, dry gums, or sunken eyes.
11. Can Vetoryl cause changes in behavior in dogs?
Yes, some dogs may experience changes in behavior while taking Vetoryl. This can include increased aggression, lethargy, or changes in appetite. If you notice any unusual changes in your dog’s behavior, it’s important to contact your vet right away.
12. How long does my dog need to take Vetoryl?
The length of time your dog will need to take Vetoryl depends on the severity of their Cushing’s disease and their individual response to the medication. Some dogs may need to take Vetoryl for the rest of their lives, while others may be able to eventually stop taking it. It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions and to monitor your dog’s symptoms closely.
13. Can Vetoryl cause changes in a dog’s coat or skin?
Yes, some dogs may experience changes in their coat or skin while taking Vetoryl. This can include hair loss, thinning of the coat, or changes in skin color or texture. If you notice any unusual changes in your dog’s coat or skin, it’s important to contact your vet.
14. Can Vetoryl be used in cats or other animals?
No, Vetoryl is only approved for use in dogs and should not be used in cats or other animals.
15. Are there any natural alternatives to Vetoryl for treating Cushing’s disease in dogs?
While there are some natural remedies that may help manage the symptoms of Cushing’s disease in dogs, there is no natural alternative to Vetoryl that has been proven to be as effective. It’s important to talk to your vet about all of your options for treating your dog’s condition.
I believe vetoryl ultimately killed my dog. She was finally diagnosed with Cushing, however; we believe she had it for several years. The vet put her on vetoryl one time a day. By day 5, my Chloe was unable to walk. She lost all motor control. We immediately stopped the medicine and took her back to the vet. They said her kidneys were shutting down and hospitalized her for 5 days with fluids and put her on a chicken and rice diet. Her kidney levels improved but were still elevated. From there we have her a fluid shot 3x a week for 2 weeks and did another round of blood work. The levels went back up so we continued with fluids every other day. We were told there was no side effects anywhere they could find if vetoryl causing kidney failure, however, my Chloe was fine other than the symptoms from Cushing. My sweet sweet girl started vetoryl on 2/15/2022 and just passed away yesterday 3/20/2022. Yes, she was elder, but there was no signs of any kidney concerns until starting vetoryl.
The vet said my dog had Cushing’s disease. She was drinking a lot of water and she was hungry all the time. More like diabetic. It was like the medication was eating her insides. We could feel her ribs and she stopped drinking water and eating. Her hair came out and it was just skin showing on her neck, and down her back was bare. She suffered. I suggest anyone giving this medicine to their pet investigate it and don’t start with a high dose. She passed today. The vet gave her too high of a dose to start. She was dead in a few weeks. Before this medicine, she was a happy dog and could get around good.
I do not recommend giving your beloved pets vetoryl, my baby girl was diagnosed with Cushing disease within 3 weeks of taking this killer drug my baby was gone, I wish I had never given her the medication. If you are prescribed vetoryl please please research it first before giving it to your babies
My joy, my heart, was diagnosed with Cushing’s in September 2022. The vet recommended Vetoryl, said it would make her feel better within a couple of weeks. It would alleviate her symptoms and make the disease manageable. A week and a half later, I called the vet because my Mikki was obviously uncomfortable, pacing, panting. The vet said that was common, but if she started showing signs of having trouble breathing, bring her in. Trusting my vet, I sat up with my girl for a while, then went to bed because I had to work later. When I woke up, I thought she had worn herself out and was finally resting. She was laying in her dog bed like she always did. But my girl didn’t get up with me to make coffee and I knew. I’ll never forgive myself for giving her the medicine. For not loading her in the car and taking her to the vet that morning. With the help of my vet, I killed my heart. It has been four months. The pain has finally started to ease, but there is still a giant hole in my life that she should be filling with her sweet face and the love she always gave me. I’ll never recommend this medicine to anyone. I tell myself that, from appearances, she didn’t suffer at the end, but euthanasia might have been better, for me, mentally.