Identification

• Symptoms of Cushings Disease include increased thirst and urination; lethargy; thin skin; hair loss; muscle weakening and enlarged abdomen.
  
  

Significance

• In Cushings Disease, the adrenal gland produces too much of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is essential for life. It is involved in the biological process of converting protein into energy. Cortisol is necessary for the immune system to work properly.
  
  

Considerations

• The causes of adrenal gland failure can be an improperly functioning pituitary gland. Also, the adrenal gland can be damaged by the use of steroid medications. Tumors, both benign and malignant, can cause adrenal gland malfunctions.
  
  

Expert Insight

• Cushings Disease can be diagnosed through blood or urine tests. Cortisol levels in the blood are determined using the ACTH test. A preliminary diagnosis can be made if the cat has been treated with steroids and presents the symptoms of Cushings Disease.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Treatment depends on the cause of the disease. If steroid use is the cause, the veterinarian will gradually decrease and eventually stop the steroid. If a tumor is the cause, a risky and difficult surgery to remove the adrenal gland will be performed. If the pituitary gland is the cause, the veterinarian may recommend removing both adrenal glands. Drug therapy, while helpful in dogs with Cushings, has shown little benefits to cats.