Cushing’s disease (also called hyperadrenocorticism) is a hormonal condition that affects many middle-aged and older dogs.
It happens when your dog’s body produces too much cortisol, a stress hormone that, in excess, can cause a range of health problems. The earlier you catch it, the better your dog’s outcome can be.
Experienced vet often see this condition and help dog owners manage it, so their pets can live happy, comfortable lives. If your dog is drinking more than usual or seems a little off lately, it could be worth a closer look.
What Is Cushing’s Disease?
Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate everything from your dog’s blood pressure to their immune system. But when the body produces too much of it over a long period, it can start to cause issues. That’s what happens in Cushing’s disease.
Most cases are due to a benign tumour in the pituitary gland, a tiny structure at the base of the brain that controls hormone signals.
This kind is called pituitary-dependent Cushing’s. Less commonly, a tumour forms on one of the adrenal glands (which sit near the kidneys), causing the body to pump out too much cortisol.
This is known as adrenal-dependent Cushing’s. There’s also a form caused by long-term use of steroid medications. This is relatively rare and often avoidable with proper monitoring.
What Signs Should I Watch For?
Symptoms tend to come on slowly and can be easy to miss at first, especially if your dog is getting older, and you’re already used to a few changes in their behaviour.
Some of the most common signs include:
- Drinking and urinating more than usual
- Increased hunger
- A bloated or pot-bellied appearance
- Hair thinning, especially along the sides
- Skin that feels thinner or bruises easily
- Muscle loss or weakness
- More frequent infections
- Panting more often
If your dog is showing any of these signs, it’s worth checking in with your vet. At Centenary Vets, our experienced team can help determine whether it’s just part of ageing or something more.
How Is It Diagnosed?
There’s no single test that confirms Cushing’s straight away. It often takes a few steps. Your vet will start with a physical exam and general bloodwork.
From there, they may recommend specific tests that measure how your dog’s body handles cortisol, such as an ACTH stimulation test or a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test.
Ultrasound may also be used to look at the adrenal glands and rule out other causes. We handle all of this in-house at Centenary Vets, with the goal of getting clear answers quickly.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Most dogs are treated with medication, with Vetoryl (Trilostane) being the most common. This daily tablet works by lowering the amount of cortisol your dog’s body produces.
Surgery can be an option in adrenal tumours, but it’s complex and not always recommended, especially in older dogs.
Treatment doesn’t cure the disease, but it helps control the symptoms so your dog can feel more like themselves again.
Regular follow-up appointments and blood tests are key to making sure the medication is doing its job without lowering cortisol too much.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Like any medication, Trilostane can have side effects. The most common ones are vomiting, diarrhoea or tiredness.
These usually happen if cortisol drops too low. That’s why we closely monitor dogs in the early stages of treatment and adjust their dosage as needed.
Is It Worth Treating?
For most dogs, yes. Left untreated, Cushing’s disease gradually worsens and can lead to serious complications like diabetes, high blood pressure and poor wound healing.
With proper care, though, many dogs go on to live comfortably for years.
It’s all about finding the right balance and managing the condition while keeping your dog happy and comfortable. That’s something we focus on every day at Centenary Vets.
Keeping an Eye on Things: Why Ongoing Checkups Matter
Managing Cushing’s is a long-term commitment. Dogs need regular monitoring, including blood tests and check-ins to make sure their medication is still working properly.
Our team will guide you through each step and help tailor the treatment plan as your dog’s needs change.
FAQs: Quick Answers for Concerned Pet Parents
Can Cushing’s be cured?
Not exactly. But it can be managed very effectively with medication and ongoing care.
Will my dog live a normal life?
Most treated dogs do well and enjoy a good quality of life. The key is sticking to the treatment plan and monitoring regularly.
Is it painful for dogs?
Cushing’s itself isn’t usually painful, but it can make dogs uncomfortable due to secondary issues like skin infections or muscle weakness.
When to Reach Out
If your dog is showing any of the signs mentioned above or if something just feels “off,” don’t wait.
Get in touch with Centenary Vets and book a check-up with one of our experienced vets. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and give your dog the care they deserve.