An  investigation into cushings syndrome

Nobody wants their four-legged friend to be a Cushing’s suspect. If you dog  shows similar symptoms to our prime suspects, then you must investigate the matter further 

Rehabilitation through treatment

Irrespective of the cause of Cushing's, the result is always the same - more cortisol is produced than is actually needed by the body. This results in the slow development of a combination of clinical signs that are associated with the condition.

Have more questions? Here are some of the most frequent queries we answer about your dog's condition

Signs and Symptoms

The noticeable signs of Cushing’s syndrome are very similar to those associated with the ageing process, making it difficult to diagnose and later monitor.

The most noticeable signs of Cushing’s syndrome include;

  • Excessive urination with possible incontinence
  • Drinking more (excessive thirst)
  • Increased appetite
  • Excessive panting, even at rest
  • Muscle wastage and weakness
  • Lethargy
  • Urinary tract infections (cystitis)
  • Pot – belly
  • Patchy hair loss, recurrent skin infections

When your veterinary surgeon suspects Cushing’s syndrome,  they will perform blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.

The cortisol concentration in the blood fluctuates greatly throughout the day in both healthy dogs and dogs with Cushing’s. It is for this reason diagnosis cannot be confirmed by just one measurement of cortisol. The two tests that are most commonly used to confirm a diagnosis of Cushing’s are called ACTH stimulation test and the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test. It may be necessary to perform both tests.

Trilostane

Trilostane is a short-acting medicine which needs to be given every day to control the clinical signs.

It is recommended that you give your dog trilostane with a meal in the morning so that it can be easily absorbed; this also makes it easier for your veterinary surgeon to perform monitoring tests at the appropriate time after dosing.

Contact your veterinary surgeon. DO NOT give a double dose the next day.

Treatment

The clinical signs of Cushing’s such as lethargy, increased drinking, eating and urination improve quickly, often within the first two weeks of treatment. Skin changes, hair loss and the pot belly can take up to 3 to 6 months to improve.

Track your dog's progress using your personalised treatment logbook.

Download your logbook

Yes. It is important that your dog revisits your veterinary surgeon for assessment and monitoring tests at 10 days, 4 weeks and 12 weeks after starting treatment and thereafter every 3 months.

If your dog becomes unwell at any time whilst on trilostane, stop treatment and consult your veterinary surgeon as soon as possible.

Trilostane is well-tolerated by most dogs. If your dog develops any signs of illness whilst on trilostane including lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea and anorexia stop treatment immediately and contact your veterinary surgeon as soon as possible.

If you become concerned with your dog's health
you should consult your veterinary surgeon immediately.