Cushing’s Disease in Dogs
Cushing’s disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) is one of the most common hormonal disorders seen in older dogs. It occurs when the adrenal glands produce excessive cortisol — a hormone that, in excess, has widespread effects on the body.
Common Signs of Cushing’s Disease
Dogs with Cushing’s may show the following signs:
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Weight gain, often with a pot-bellied appearance
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Increased thirst and appetite
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Frequent urination
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Panting or puffing
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Thinning of the skin and hair loss
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Recurrent skin infections
The effects of prolonged cortisol overproduction include:
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Premature ageing
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Fatty liver changes
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Muscle wasting and weakness
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High blood pressure and cholesterol
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Suppressed immune system
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Eye damage
Treating Cushing’s disease can dramatically improve your dog’s quality of life. Although it requires daily medication and regular monitoring, many dogs respond well and regain vitality.
Diagnosing Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s is often suspected during routine blood tests when certain markers — such as elevated ALKP and cholesterol — are seen alongside clinical signs.
We typically begin with:
🧪 Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test (LDDST)
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Your dog stays in hospital for the day.
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Blood is drawn before and after administering a small dose of dexamethasone (at 0, 4, and 8 hours).
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Results help confirm or rule out Cushing’s disease.
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Inconclusive results may still indicate early disease and require ongoing monitoring.
If Cushing’s is diagnosed, further testing may be needed:
🧪 ACTH Stimulation Test
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Helps determine the source of the disease (pituitary vs adrenal).
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Indicates how your dog is likely to respond to medication.
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May be combined with abdominal ultrasound to assess the adrenal glands.
Treatment and Monitoring
If your dog has Trilostane-responsive Cushing’s, we begin daily tablets (given with food in the morning). Each dog’s response is unique, and finding the correct dose is critical.
Ongoing monitoring includes:
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ACTH Stimulation Tests at Day 10 and Day 28 after starting medication
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Further testing if results are unclear or response is poor
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Blood must be drawn 4 hours after the morning dose to ensure accurate monitoring
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Once stabilised, ACTH tests are repeated every 3 – 6 months
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Comprehensive blood profiles once to twice yearly to assess overall health and adjust treatment if needed
Incorrect dosing can lead to dangerously low cortisol levels, so regular testing is essential.
What to Expect
With appropriate care, dogs on Trilostane often:
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Show renewed energy and vitality
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Develop stronger immune responses
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Experience fewer skin and urinary issues
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Live longer, happier lives
However, managing Cushing’s is a significant time and financial commitment. We’re here to support you through every step — from diagnosis and treatment to long-term care.
📋 Ask us for a full estimate of medication and testing costs.
🔗 Advice for caring for an unwell or elderly pet
📞 Call us on 9913 7979
📧 Or email reception@pittvets.au
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