Cushing's Disease In Dogs

Cushing's disease can sometimes be difficult to spot due to the fact that it can come with many other symptoms that mimic other diseases. Most times Cushing's disease effects the older dog more so than the younger dog.

There are some things that can bring on Cushing's disease in the aging dog. Injuries that required medications may help the problem at the time, but drugs and often create other problems that do not show up until later in the dogs life. Other illnesses and advancing age makes it difficult for their bodies to cope and function properly. There are metabolic and hormone changes that can reek havoc as they become out of whack.

Increased appetite, drinking and urination. Panting which is not necessary become of their environment, high blood pressure, a bulging abdomen, hair loss, the appearance of skin lumps and discoloring, muscle weakness, and disorders that effect their nervous system may also occur with the disease.

Many times Cushing's disease is triggered due to an adrenal or pituitary gland tumors. A malfunction of either of these two glands can create a hormone problem in the overproduction of corticosteroids.

SYMPTOMS OF CUSHING'S DISEASE

Always consult a vet if you suspect any illness in your pet. Sometimes Cushing's disease can sneak up on pet owners. Some of the symptoms and dangers that require a trip to the Vet are:

Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and pain. These symptoms are typical of an aging dog, yet, this is exactly how it can be missed due to thinking, it's part of the normal aging process. If any of these symptoms occur a trip to the Vet can at least confirm the fact that is only due to age, or help in determining the true problem and possibly a long lasting solution.

Do not wait until serious symptoms occur.

Another sign of Cushing's disease that is more common would be that of the sagging belly. This is due to the decrease in muscle strength and an increase of fat relocated to the abdomen. Hair loss and the resistance of infection can become a problem due to the thinning of the skin.

DIAGNOSING CUSHING'S DISEASE

If Cushing's disease is suspected your Vet can perform a blood test for diagnoses. This can help to determine if there is a tumor in the pituitary or adrenal gland. Most times it is in the pituitary gland. Sadly, although it can be treated if this is the case, it cannot be cured.

If the tumor is in the adrenal gland it can be removed.

There are a variety of drug therapies available. Your Vet will need to run periodical blood tests to make sure your pet is getting the correct amount cortisol otherwise it can develop Addison's disease. After the correct dosage has been found, the condition can be monitored and periodic dosages vs. daily may be prescribed.

Cushing's disease can progress into a life-threatening disorder. Diabetes, kidney liver, and congestive heart failure as well as hypothyroidism, a variety of infections, including that of the bladder. Skin, ear and other infections can appear also.

Regardless of the age of your pet, if there is any problem, make the time and take your dog or cat or any pet to your preferred Vet. Yearly office visits should be done. Some people may feel that they cannot afford such things and ignore all types of warning signs of Cushing's disease or any other problem for that matter.

Yet, if this is the case, perhaps it is time to allow someone who is financially able to care for these pets. A $50.00 office visit once a year may save you from having to find hundreds or even thousands of dollars to care for them later in life. Not the mention saving the pet from all sorts of ailments and possible a very poor quality of life due to neglect.

Most pet owners absolutely adore their pets. They treat them as though they were their own children. This informational article is simply for your information. Please see a Vet for any questions about your pets health.

Article by Kimberly Shannon - Researching for Pet Owners - Encouraging Veterinary Care. http://cairnterrier.gahzoo.com

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