What is steroid-responsive tremor syndrome?

Steroid-responsive tremor syndrome refers to a condition in which tremors in dogs or cats respond noticeably to corticosteroid treatment. A vet will first rule out infectious or metabolic causes before deciding whether steroids are appropriate.

How will the vet investigate the cause of tremors?

Your vet will start with a physical and neurological examination, followed by blood work, biochemistry, urinalysis, and imaging if needed, to rule out infectious, metabolic, or structural causes before deciding on a treatment plan.

What can I observe at home to help with the diagnosis?

Record video of the tremors, note when they started and how often they occur, track daily food and water intake and litter or toilet habits, and log any recent medications or exposures. This information helps your vet pinpoint the cause.

How soon can improvement be expected, and what follow-up is needed?

If tremors are steroid-responsive, improvement may be seen within a few days. Follow-up visits are still needed to monitor blood test results and watch for relapse or side effects, as guided by your vet.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Steroid-Responsive Tremor Syndrome in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment [2025]

Generalised tremors effectively controlled with corticosteroids

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Continuous and severe trembling lasting more than a few minutes
•Accompanied by loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
•Trembling with simultaneous difficulty breathing or blue-tinged lips

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (Within 24–72 Hours)

•Sudden increase in trembling frequency lasting more than one day
•Lethargy, unwillingness to interact, or excessive sleepiness lasting more than one day
•Notable decrease in appetite or refusal to eat for more than one day

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Tremors in dogs and cats typically present as visible shaking or trembling, and may be accompanied by changes in alertness, appetite, or activity levels. Tracking frequency and duration helps your vet identify the underlying cause.

Visible trembling or shaking, with changes in frequency or intensity
Feeling cold, low body temperature, or difficulty staying warm
Lethargy, slowed responses, or excessive sleepiness
Decreased appetite or refusing food for more than 24 hours
Noticeably reduced activity, reluctance to walk or jump
Significant weight change or drop in energy level over a short period

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Seek immediate care if tremors are accompanied by persistent high fever or altered consciousness
⚠️ Seek emergency care if your pet loses consciousness or cannot breathe on their own

02How can I assess the situation at home? Key observation tips and when to seek emergency care

Keeping detailed records and video footage at home gives your vet valuable information to determine whether tremors are steroid-responsive or caused by another underlying condition.

Note when the tremors started, how often they occur, and how long each episode lasts
Film your pet trembling both at rest and during activity
Track daily food and water intake
Record the frequency and appearance of urination and bowel movements
Observe alertness, willingness to interact, and responses to environmental stimuli
Note any recent medications, vaccinations, injuries, or exposure to toxins
If symptoms worsen, arrange a veterinary visit promptly

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

Your vet will use a systematic approach to rule out infectious, metabolic, or structural causes, and arrange further imaging or specialist referral as needed.

Full physical examination

assessing neurological status, body temperature, and hydration

Complete blood count (CBC)

checking for signs of infection or blood cell abnormalities

Biochemistry panel

evaluating liver and kidney function and metabolic abnormalities

Urinalysis

ruling out urinary or metabolic causes

X-rays

ruling out thoracic, abdominal, or skeletal factors

Ultrasound or advanced imaging (if needed) to assess internal organs or the brain

Referral to neurology or another specialist if further evaluation is required

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medications, diet adjustments, and care guide

If steroid-responsive tremor syndrome is suspected, your vet will start a short course of corticosteroids and monitor closely for symptom changes and side effects, adjusting or adding supportive therapies as needed.

Short-course corticosteroid therapy with monitoring for symptom improvement
Scheduled follow-up visits to track progress and watch for potential side effects
Adjusting other medications or providing supportive care based on response
Follow-up blood tests or imaging if indicated
Providing warmth and nutritional support to aid recovery
Recording the timeline of improvement and having your vet assess the need for referral

05What should I bring to the vet? Key information to help your vet identify the cause quickly

Bring a video of the tremors along with notes on when they first started

Prepare a record of food and water intake over the past 24–72 hours

Note any changes in urination and bowel movements

List all current and recent medications, supplements, or vaccines

Bring any previous test results or imaging if available

Keep your pet warm and transport them in a secure carrier

Consider calling ahead to book an appointment at a clinic that can run diagnostic tests

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.