What are the signs of Cushing’s Disease in Dogs?
Recognizing the signs of Cushing’s Disease early can help prevent secondary complications and improve your pet’s quality of life. This module will help you identify common symptoms so you can seek veterinary care promptly, or know when it’s time to recheck with your veterinarian.
Two hallmark symptoms of Cushing’s Disease are increased urination and increased thirst. You may hear these called polyuria (urinating more than normal) and polydipsia (drinking more than normal).
When cortisol levels are elevated, they interfere with the kidneys’ ability to concentrate urine. This leads to increased urine production, causing dogs to urinate more frequently and in larger amounts. As a result of excessive urination, the dog can become dehydrated. The body responds by triggering a compensatory increase in thirst, leading to excessive drinking.
Many pets with Cushing’s also develop an increased appetite, meaning your pet may eat more than usual. Cortisol has a direct impact on metabolism and can increase hunger.
Another common sign is hair loss or a thinning coat, often occurring along the flanks or tail. This happens because elevated cortisol levels interfere with the normal hair follicle cycle, disrupting hair growth and leading to shedding or thinning. The skin may also become thin and fragile, making it more prone to bruising or injury.
Pets with Cushing’s Disease often develop a pot-bellied appearance. This can happen due to a combination of factors, including:
Muscle weakness of the abdominal muscles, which allows the abdomen to sag under the weight of internal organs
Enlargement of the liver, which can increase abdominal size
Redistribution of fat into the abdomen, increasing the weight carried by the abdominal wall
Excessive panting—even when your pet is at rest—is another common symptom. This can occur for several reasons: cortisol can increase the rate of breathing, weaken respiratory muscles, and alter fat distribution around the chest, which may contribute to a sensation of breathlessness. Cortisol’s effects on metabolism can also generate extra heat, causing your pet to pant as a way of cooling down.
The next module will discuss how these signs can overlap with other conditions, making veterinary diagnosis essential. Early recognition and veterinary consultation can lead to more effective management of the disease and better outcomes for your pet.