Cushing’s Disease Treatment for Dogs in Scottsdale, AZ
Excessive thirst and urination, a ravenous appetite, a pot-bellied appearance, and thinning hair are classic signs of Cushing’s disease, one of the most common hormone disorders in middle-aged and senior dogs. At Salt River Veterinary Specialists, our board-certified internal medicine specialists confirm the diagnosis with targeted endocrine testing and imaging, then carefully tailor and monitor treatment to keep your dog comfortable and active.
What Is Cushing’s Disease?
Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Cortisol is an essential stress hormone, but long-term excess affects nearly every organ system. There are three main forms:
- Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s, the most common form, caused by a usually benign tumor of the pituitary gland in the brain
- Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s, caused by a tumor of one adrenal gland
- Iatrogenic Cushing’s, caused by long-term use of steroid medications
Cushing’s disease is diagnosed most often in dogs over six years of age. Poodles, Dachshunds, Boston Terriers, Beagles, Boxers, and terrier breeds are among those at higher risk. It is rare in cats, where it is often associated with diabetes that is difficult to regulate.
Signs of Cushing’s Disease
- Increased thirst and urination, sometimes with accidents in the house
- Increased appetite and food-seeking behavior
- Pot-bellied appearance and muscle weakness
- Thin skin, hair loss, or a poor coat that is slow to regrow
- Heavy panting, even at rest
- Recurrent skin or urinary tract infections
Diagnosing Cushing’s Disease
No single test is perfect, and many conditions can mimic Cushing’s, so careful interpretation is key. Our internal medicine specialists review bloodwork and urinalysis, then use endocrine tests such as the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test and ACTH stimulation test. Abdominal ultrasound helps us evaluate the adrenal glands to distinguish pituitary from adrenal disease and check the liver for changes associated with excess cortisol. Your pet’s liver values may also be elevated, which we discuss further on our liver disease page.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the form of Cushing’s disease and your dog’s overall health:
- Most dogs with pituitary-dependent disease are managed with daily oral medication, most commonly trilostane, which reduces cortisol production
- Dogs with adrenal tumors may be candidates for adrenalectomy performed by our surgical team, as discussed on our abdominal surgical conditions page
- Iatrogenic Cushing’s is treated by gradually and safely tapering steroid medications
Monitoring Is Essential
Medication dosing requires careful adjustment. We schedule follow-up exams and ACTH stimulation tests to make sure cortisol is controlled without dropping too low, and we watch for complications such as high blood pressure, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and blood clots. Our team shares updates with your family veterinarian to coordinate long-term care.
Learn about other hormone and internal medicine conditions on our conditions we treat page, read what to expect, or review payment options. Families who prefer home delivery of ongoing medications can use our online pharmacy.
Cushing’s Disease FAQs
Is Cushing’s disease painful for dogs?
Cushing’s disease is not typically painful, but it can cause discomfort from muscle weakness, skin problems, and infections and can affect quality of life.
How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves bloodwork, urinalysis, endocrine tests such as the low-dose dexamethasone suppression or ACTH stimulation test, and abdominal ultrasound.
Can Cushing’s disease be cured?
Adrenal tumors may be curable with surgery. Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s is typically managed long term with medication.
What happens if Cushing’s disease is not treated?
Untreated Cushing’s can lead to high blood pressure, infections, diabetes, blood clots, and declining quality of life.
How often will my dog need rechecks?
Rechecks are frequent when starting medication and become less frequent once your dog is stable, usually every few months.
Can cats get Cushing’s disease?
It is rare in cats and is often discovered when diabetes is difficult to control.
Can steroid medications cause Cushing’s?
Yes. Long-term steroid use can cause iatrogenic Cushing’s, which is treated by tapering the medication under veterinary supervision.
Help Your Dog Feel Like Themselves Again
If your dog is drinking, eating, and panting more than usual, our specialists can find out why. Call Salt River Veterinary Specialists at (480) 819-8630 to schedule a consultation in Scottsdale, AZ .