What Is Cushing’s Disease?
Cushing’s Disease (also called hyperadrenocorticism) happens when your dog’s body produces too much cortisol, a natural steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands.
Cortisol helps control stress, metabolism, and the immune system — but when it’s chronically too high, it starts to cause health problems. Most cases are caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland, which overstimulates the adrenal glands to release excess cortisol. Less commonly, it can be caused by a tumor on one of the adrenal glands themselves.
Common Signs of Cushing’s Disease
Dogs with Cushing’s often show gradual changes that worsen over time:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Increased appetite
- Panting more often
- Hair thinning or slow hair regrowth
- Pot-bellied appearance
- Thin skin or dark patches on the belly
- Recurrent skin or ear infections
- Muscle weakness or decreased energy
These signs can be mistaken for “normal aging,” which is why testing is so important.
How We Diagnose It
Diagnosis requires blood testing, since these signs overlap with many other conditions. We often use:
- ACTH stimulation test or low-dose dexamethasone suppression test – to confirm Cushing’s.
- Abdominal ultrasound – to determine if the problem is pituitary-based or adrenal-based.
- Routine bloodwork and urinalysis – to evaluate overall health and screen for secondary effects like liver changes or infections.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of disease:
- Medication (Most Common)
- Trilostane (Vetoryl) is the most common and effective treatment.
- It controls cortisol production, helping reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Given once or twice daily depending on your dog’s response.
- Surgery (Less Common)
- Used for adrenal tumors when surgery is an option and imaging supports it.
- Supportive Care
- Weight control, skin care, and managing secondary infections are important parts of ongoing management.
Monitoring & Follow-Up
Regular monitoring is essential to keep cortisol levels in a safe range:
- Recheck ACTH stimulation tests are performed 3 weeks after starting medication, then again at 30 days, and every 3–6 months thereafter.
- Periodic bloodwork monitors kidney and liver values.
- We’ll also track your dog’s clinical signs — appetite, thirst, and energy level are key indicators.
At Home
You can help by:
- Giving medication at the same time daily with food.
- Monitoring water intake, appetite, and behavior changes.
- Reporting any vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy right away — these may signal over-suppression of cortisol.
- Keeping follow-up appointments to ensure continued control and safety.
Summary
- Cushing’s Disease = too much cortisol.
- Causes increased drinking, eating, panting, and skin/coat changes.
- Controlled with daily medication and regular testing.
- With proper management, most dogs live long, comfortable lives.
If you have any additional questions, please call us at 319-277-7675 or email us at [email protected]. We would be happy to assist you.