Cushing’s disease, while rare in people, is very common in dogs. Overall, it’s usually around 600,000 cases a year, and with a disease that can be hard to diagnose, the numbers could be even higher. Despite your species, however, Cushing’s disease is an overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands (above the kidneys). Cortisol, or the stress hormone, plays a vital role in regulating immune systems, energy, liver function, and multiple other organ functions. However, when the body produces cortisol in excessive amounts for a long period, it can damage the body drastically.
Most of the time, the disease is a result of tumors on glands that either end up releasing too much cortisol, or overproducing ACTH that then tells the adrenal glands to over-make more cortisol. Another possible reason could be from steroid medication.
Generally, once diagnosed, Cushing’s disease does not get treatment. Cushing’s is likely fatal, but surgery to remove the tumor or radiation therapy has seen significant success.
To help catch signs early, make sure you pay close attention to your pet’s behavior. Generally, most owners can tell when their pet is acting different, or has a different physical appearance, but hone in on these things:
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Increase in thirst and appetite
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Increase in urination
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Increase in panting
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Reduced physical activity like playing, running, etc.
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A potbelly, and different skin issues
These issues are not all necessary for a diagnosis, they’re just the general reports of pets who have Cushing’s disease. If your dog or cat starts to have symptoms similar to these, make sure to monitor their behavior to see if they may have more than one, and bring them to a vet for an evaluation.
https://sashvets.com/diseases/canine-cushings-disease/
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cushings-disease-in-dogs
Clara Brown, Junior Board Member