Cushing’s disease(Hyperadrenocorticism) is a disease that I encounter regularly as a veterinarian. it usually affects dogs that are middle-aged to older but can affect a dog of any age. here is what you need to know as a dog owner…

What is Cushing’s disease?

Cushing’s is a disorder of the adrenal gland which sits on top of each kidney. the disease occurs because the adrenal gland produces an excessive amount of cortisol which is a steroid hormone that is released during stress. This occurs because there is a problem with the pituitary gland that signals the adrenal gland to release cortisol, or because there is a problem with the adrenal gland itself. the majority of cases with Cushing’s disease occur because of a pituitary gland problem. if a dog receives steroids in excessive amounts, this can also result in Cushing’s disease. Both the adrenal and pituitary form of Cushing’s disease usually occur because of a tumor. the tumor is benign in most cases but can be malignant in rare situations.

What are the symptoms of Cushing’s disease?

In the early stages, there may not be any symptoms. As the disease progresses, common symptoms include increased appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, lethargy, a distended abdomen, excessive panting, and hair loss.

What should I do if my dog is showing symptoms of Cushing’s disease?

If you suspect your dog may have Cushing’s, you should have him/her evaluated by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will likely perform an examination. Diagnostics such as blood work and urinalysis will also likely be necessary to obtain a diagnosis. if your veterinarian suspects Cushing’s after initial diagnostics have been performed, further blood testing called an ACTH stimulation test or low dose dexamethasone test will likely be needed for a definitive diagnosis and in order to identify the source of the problem (pituitary gland vs. adrenal gland).  Other imaging including abdominal ultrasound may also be necessary.

What can I do if my dog has Cushing’s disease?

If your dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s, there is medication or surgery that can help. the medication is called Lysodren. another medication called Trilostane is sometimes used. obviously, close regulation of medication using blood testing is necessary since overdoing it can cause severe problems with Addison’s disease – hypoadrenocorticism which can cause loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and weakness. Blood work will need to be monitored weekly in the beginning then eventually every 1-3 months. Once your dog’s condition is well controlled and he/she seems to tolerate the medication well, blood work every 6 months is performed. An ACTH Stimulation test and other blood work to monitor kidney function and electrolytes are usually performed to ensure your dog is on the ideal dosage of medication. A dog that has the adrenal form of Cushing’s can also benefit from surgery to remove the tumor causing the problem.

What is the prognosis if my dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s?

The average life expectancy is approximately 2 years but this an “educated guess” rather than an exact science. every dog will tolerate the disease and medication differently so lifespan will vary. the goal of therapy is to improve quality of life.

If your dog has Cushing’s disease, the advances in veterinary medicine can help your dog live as well as possible for as long as possible. has your dog been diagnosed with Cushing’s disease? We would love for you to share your experiences!

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Q: is a urinary tract infection the same as cystitis?

A: They could be connected, but one is more specific than the other. Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, whereas a UTI is typically a bacterial infection that can include any part of the urinary tract, from the kidneys to the urethra. Cystitis is typically the result of a urinary tract infection, but can also be because of bladder stones or in rare situations, a tumor in the bladder. Cystitis can have serious consequences if left untreated, so if your cat is showing odd urination symptoms, you really should get him to the veterinarian to see what’s going on.

Q: My older female dog has started to lift her leg when she urinates. why would she do this after so many years?

A: As we age, our hormone levels fluctuate – that includes people and animals. It could be that it’s a simple variation in hormone levels that is making her want to lift her leg instead of squatting like she used to. Also, it tends to indicate very dominant behavior. I wonder, have there been changes in your house? if you’re concerned about the frequency or if she seems to be straining or having difficulty, I’d give your vet a call, otherwise, think about what may have changed in your house to make your girl need to feel a bit more masculine.

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Ask the Shelter is a weekly feature aimed at pet education. if you have a question, contact Jennifer Vanderau, director of communications for the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, at or 263-5791.