What is Cushing’s disease in dogs?

What is Cushing’s disease?

Cushing’s disease, also known as hypercortisolism, is one of the most common hormonal disorders in dogs. It is characterised by excessive production of cortisol, the stress hormone and metabolic regulator, which the adrenal glands cannot regulate on their own. The pituitary gland is responsible for keeping the right level of this hormone in the blood, instructing the adrenal glands to release cortisol. When the pituitary stops controlling its production and blood cortisol becomes too high, we speak of Cushing’s disease. 

What causes Cushing’s disease in dogs?

The disease can have various causes. Most often it stems from a problem within the body itself, the so-called primary form, i.e. damage to the adrenal glands. In some dogs the disease is caused by tumours of the pituitary gland or of the adrenal glands themselves. A secondary cause may be long-term treatment with corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory drugs), which can also lead to an excess of cortisol.

What are the symptoms of Cushing’s disease in dogs?

 The symptoms can vary and may also build up gradually. Bear in mind that the disease affects every dog differently:  it all depends on the individual animal. Typical signs may include: 

• Excessive thirst and frequent urination.
• Increased appetite, which can lead to weight gain.
• Increased sweating 
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• A tendency to develop skin infections.
• Digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhoea.
• Hair loss 
• Muscle weakness
• Disrupted heat cycles in bitches

Unfortunately, Cushing’s disease encourages the development of other conditions, so spotting the symptoms early and starting treatment promptly can help avoid complications such as:

• diabetes
• high blood pressure
• pancreatitis 
• thromboembolic disease 

How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed in dogs? 

Diagnosing Cushing’s disease relies on a series of tests. First, the veterinarian has to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Blood tests are then carried out to measure cortisol levels.  In addition, function tests using low doses of steroids are used to allow the vet to confirm the diagnosis.

How is Cushing’s disease treated in dogs? 

Treatment of Cushing’s disease in dogs depends on the cause and how advanced the disease is. For primary Cushing’s, medication is usually prescribed to reduce the amount of cortisol produced.

For secondary Cushing’s, the corticosteroid drugs need to be gradually withdrawn. 

Another treatment option is surgical removal of the adrenal glands if Cushing’s is caused by a tumour of that organ. This is, however, an advanced form of treatment, and the decision to operate rests with the vet in charge of the animal’s care. 

If a dog is overweight, it is important to consult a nutritionist. With the right diet, it is possible to control the animal’s weight and blood sugar levels and reduce the strain on the adrenal glands. The key points are limiting sugar intake and making sure the dog drinks plenty of water. 

Cushing’s disease in dogs is a chronic condition, which means that a complete cure is not possible. Today’s treatments and veterinary care do, however, keep the symptoms under control and give dogs a good quality of life. The aim of treatment is to lower the level of cortisol in the blood or to reduce its effects on the dog. 

If your dog has Cushing’s disease and you have questions specific to your own pet, every vet at Zviropolis will be happy to answer them.