What is Cushings Disease in Dogs?
By Tess Thompson
Symptoms of Cushings Disease | Cushings and Pancreatitis | Diet for Cushings Disease |
Cushings disease in dogs is a glandular disorder caused by excessive corticosteroids. The process of the production of
these corticosteroids is such that:
The pituitary gland produces a hormone called ACTH
The ACTH stimulates the adrenalin glands
The adrenalin gland produces corticosteroids
A more than required amount of corticosteroid can cause Cushings disease, so it is also called hyperadrenocorticism
(hyper-adreno-corticism).
The overproduction of corticosteroids which causes Cushings disease in dogs can occur due to two types of conditions.
In 85% of the cases, the excessive production of ACTH is caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland that produces high
levels of ACTH. This causes the adrenalin glands to make more than required levels of corticosteroids.
Hyperadrenocorticism in a dog can also be caused by a corticosteroid-producing tumor in one or both of the adrenalin
glands.
Cushings disease in dogs can also be caused by large doses of synthetic corticosteroids. These steroids may be
administered for treating another ailment but in turn produce a side effect that results in Cushing’s disease.
Cushings disease generally occurs in dogs that are five years or older. It is more common in female dogs than
in male dogs. Some breeds like Terriers, Poodles, and Dachshunds are more prone to Cushing’s disease for some
inexplicable reason.
Cushing’s disease affects the overall health of the dog, since corticosteroids play an important role in a
large number of body functions. Some of the symptoms of the disease are:
A gradual but definite weakening of the ligaments
Weight gain and a potbelly
Degeneration of the skin leading to rashes and lumps
Hair loss
An increase in appetite
High levels of liquid intake
Higher frequency of urination
A gradual degeneration of the nervous system
A series of tests need to be conducted to confirm the presence of Cushings disease in dogs. Samples of blood
and diluted urine are analyzed to give a preliminary indication. If the disease is suspected, further laboratory
tests are performed that can be fairly accurate in diagnosis and can even direct the physician to the root of the
problem.
Cushex Drops
PetAlive Cushex Drops are a 100% natural, safe effective herbal and homeopathic remedy for supporting pet adrenal health and treating symptoms of Cushing's Disease. PetAlive Cushex Drops normalize adrenal function, balance corticosteroid levels and reduce the troublesome symptoms of this condition.
PetAlive Cushex Drops comes in convenient tincture drop form. The drops are easy to administer to pets and may be mixed with food or a treat. The dosage can be adjusted to suit pets of all sizes.
Degree and speed of improvement differs from animal to animal, depending on many factors. With regular use, you should begin to notice a general improvement in health within 3 - 6 weeks.
Though natural remedies will not cure Cushing’s, many herbs can safely and effectively support your pet’s general health and help to reduce the symptoms of Cushing’s disease.
Other endocrinal disorders like diabetes or inflammation of the pancreas tend to appear along with Cushing’s disease.
These ailments add to the suffering of the dog and unfortunately reduce the chances of survival.


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