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Proligesterone

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medicationWhy has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Proligesterone is a progestogen hormone, which inhibits oestrus (heat) by suppressing the production of hormones by the pituitary gland. It is used to postpone and suppress oestrus in dogs and cats and reduce the symptoms of false pregnancy in dogs. It has also been used to treat skin conditions in cats. Proligesterone may also be used to alleviate problems associated with prolonged oestrus in ferrets.

How do I give this medication?

 - Your veterinarian will administer this medicine by injection to your pet. A course of treatment may be required as directed by your veterinarian.

- The medication is best given when your pet is not on heat. It will not be effective for oestrus control if it is given when the animal is in oestrus. Effects will be seen after about 5 days, if given in the early stages of heat (pro-oestrus).

Potential side effects

- Your veterinarian will need to monitor your pet closely if the animal is diabetic.

- Your pet may experience irritation at the site of the injection and there may be a change of coat colour at the site of injection.

- Potential side effects with proligesterone are mammary changes and uterine infection (pyometra).

- Other side effects include increased appetite, increased thirst, increased urination and personality changes. If these effects continue and become troublesome, contact your veterinarian.

- Other side effects may occur. If the pet experiences anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible drug interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarianwhat other medication you are giving to your pet.

- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.

- Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring.

- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Aug 1, 2015.