Senior Dog Comfort & Care

This disease affects the adrenal gland, and there are three causes.

The most common cause (85–90% of cases) is a pituitary gland tumor at the base of the brain. A tumor (harmless or cancerous) causes the gland to overproduce ACTH — a hormone that stimulates the production of cortisol by the adrenal gland. Dogs can live normal lives with medication and veterinary supervision. In 15% of cases, the tumor will grow, and dogs will develop neurological signs, which isn’t ideal.

The next type is an adrenal gland tumor. Surgical removal will cure the disease if the tumor is benign. The outcome is less favorable if it’s cancerous.

The last type is iatrogenic Cushing’s disease, caused by the use of steroids (oral or injectable) for a prolonged period of time, which causes excessive production of cortisol. Steroids must be stopped gradually to prevent other complications.

The most common signs of Cushing’s include:

• Increased appetite and/or drinking
• Increased urination
• Feeling tired
• Poor hair coat
• Bloated abdomen
• Panting
• Thin skin and/or dark patches
• Skin infections and poor skin healing
• Frequent bladder infections