Adrenal Disease in Pets
Adrenal Disease in Pets – Cushing’s & Addison’s in Dogs and Cats
At Cara Veterinary Group in Dublin 15 (Ballycoolin) and Dublin 7 (Phoenix Park Gate), we diagnose and manage adrenal gland disorders such as Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) and Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism). These hormonal conditions can affect dogs and cats, causing a wide range of symptoms that require careful, long-term management.
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What Are the Adrenal Glands?
The adrenal glands sit near the kidneys and are responsible for producing vital hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones control your pet’s stress response, metabolism, salt balance, and blood pressure. When the glands produce too much or too little of these hormones, serious health problems can develop.
Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)
Cushing’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. It is most common in middle-aged to older dogs, especially small terriers, poodles, and staffies. The excess cortisol causes changes in metabolism, skin, and muscle condition.
Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease
- Increased thirst and urination
- Increased hunger and weight gain
- Hair loss, especially on the body and tail
- Pot-bellied appearance due to muscle loss
- Lethargy or reduced stamina
- Panting more than usual
- Thin skin or skin infections (calcinosis cutis)
Because affected pets often seem bright and happy, owners may not realise anything is wrong until secondary problems appear.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Routine blood and urine tests may show raised liver enzymes and dilute urine but cannot confirm Cushing’s. A specialised ACTH stimulation test or low-dose dexamethasone suppression test is needed for diagnosis. Diabetes and other conditions are often ruled out first.
Cushing’s disease can be managed (but not cured) with daily medication. Initial stabilisation requires regular blood tests and dose adjustments, but once balanced, most dogs live comfortably for years.
Read more about Cushing’s Disease here.
Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
Addison’s disease is the opposite of Cushing’s - the adrenal glands produce too little cortisol or aldosterone. It is rarer but can be life-threatening if untreated. It usually affects young to middle-aged dogs and is more common in females.
Symptoms of Addison’s Disease
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Weakness, lethargy, or collapse
- Weight loss and poor appetite
- Shaking, dehydration, or low body temperature
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
Addison’s can appear suddenly as an emergency (an “Addisonian crisis”). Diagnosis is made using the same ACTH stimulation test used for Cushing’s disease, after standard blood and urine testing.
With proper diagnosis and medication (usually daily tablets and/or monthly injections), most dogs recover well and live normal lives.
When to See Your Vet
Contact your vet if your dog or cat shows any of the following:
- Excessive drinking or urination
- Hair loss, pot belly, or skin changes
- Weakness, collapse, or vomiting
- Weight loss despite eating normally
Book Your Appointment
- This service is not available to book online. Please call 01 885 3253 and ask for James the Vet for specialist advice and scheduling.
- If your pet is unwell, book an Illness Consultation online or by phone.
Our Locations
Cara Veterinary Hospital - Unit 233, Blanchardstown Corporate Park 2, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15 (D15 Y384)
Cara Veterinary Clinic - 1A North Circular Road, Phoenix Park Gate, Dublin 7 (D07 HE48)