Cushing's Syndrome in Dogs

What is Cushing’s Syndrome? 

Cushing’s Syndrome is a disorder that seriously affects your dog’s health, vitality, and appearance. Historically known as ‘hyperadrenocorticism’ or ‘Cushing’s Disease’, it is one of the most common endocrine disorders, occurring mostly in middle aged and older dogs.  

Cushing’s Syndrome is the result of the body producing too much of a hormone called cortisol. This hormone is produced by the adrenal glands, which are located near the kidneys.   

Causes of Cushing’s syndrome in Dogs 

There are two reasons why the body may naturally produce too much cortisol – both are the result of tumours. 

The pituitary gland produces ACTH – a hormone that tells the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.  Some cases of Cushing’s are caused by a tumour of the pituitary gland. Although these tumours are usually benign and non-cancerous, the cells of the tumour cause an excessive amount of ACTH to be produced, which then leads to the increased production of cortisol. 

Cushing’s can also be caused by a tumour in one (or in rare cases, both) of the adrenal glands, causing it to produce more cortisol than normal.  

What are the symptoms of Cushing’s? 

As the symptoms tend to develop gradually, you may not notice them straight away. These are the symptoms you should look out for – but it’s worth noting your dog may not display all of them: 

• Increased thirst 
• Increased urination 
• Increased appetite 
• Reduced activity/lower than usual energy levels 
• Excessive panting 
• Thin or fragile skin 
• Hair loss (especially sides/flank and tail) 
• Recurring skin infections 
• Enlargement of the abdomen, resulting in a "pot-bellied" appearance 
• Muscle loss/wastage 

If you suspect that your dog may have Cushing’s, please talk to your vet - even if they seem to be otherwise well.  The condition can be difficult to diagnose but your vet will advise on the correct tests to diagnose Cushing’s.   

Treating Cushing’s syndrome 

Although there’s no cure for Cushing’s, it can be managed with the right medication and your dog can still have a good quality of life. You’ll most likely notice that your dog’s symptoms are improving within the first two weeks of them being on medication.  

Surgery to remove the tumour isn’t a widely available option and would be risky and complex, although new surgical techniques are being studied. 

What happens if Cushing's is not caught? 

The major impact of Cushing’s in dogs is a reduction in quality of life. As Cushing’s can progress over time, the symptoms your dog may be displaying, for example tiredness, increases in thirst, and urinating inside, are likely to worsen without treatment. There are also a number of potentially life-threatening conditions which can occur as a result of Cushing’s. These include: 

• Diabetes mellitus 
• High blood pressure 
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) 
• Infections of the kidneys and urinary tract 
• Pulmonary thromboembolism (blood clots in the lung) 

Living with Cushing’s syndrome 

It’s important that your dog sees their vet regularly, especially during the first few weeks of treatment to ensure that the medication is at the right dosage level. Depending on your dog’s response to the medication, you should be able to reduce your check-ups to every few months. 

Being vigilant with your dog’s check-ups will help to ensure they maintain a good quality of life and can continue enjoying their usual activities. 

Ask your vet about our Medivet Healthcare Plan which includes regular health checks and other benefits. 

If you would like more information about Cushing’s in dogs, please contact your local vet.