Wednesday, 11 December 2024

Cushing's syndrome in your pet

6 April 2021

Cushing's disease very commonly affects senior dogs. It is also called adrenal hyperfunction. It is very important to get proper treatment quickly, as neglect here can lead to serious consequences. In the absence of proper steps, this disease can cause other ailments such as diabetes, kidney failure, pancreatitis and various heart diseases. Today, we know of treatments that ensure sick dogs can live long lives, free from the suffering associated with the disease.

The adrenal glands, as the name suggests, are located above the kidneys. They are responsible for the production of cortisol, a complex of hormones necessary for weight regulation. Cortisol is also responsible for the production of white blood cells, affect the condition and health of the skin, regulate the mineral balance in the body and affect the structure of the connective tissue. For the adrenal glands to work properly, they must be stimulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone, which is in turn produced in the pituitary gland. A tumor in the adrenal glands or in the pituitary gland is usually responsible for Cushing's disease.

Cushing's syndrome in the dog

Toxins that build up in the body in excessive amounts are the most common trigger for Cushing's syndrome. The liver, intestines and kidneys have to deal with too many toxins until they are finally unable to remove the excess from the body. This task then falls additionally on adrenal glands, pituitary and thyroid glands. The first thing that should be taken care of as a preventive measure is a proper diet of our dog. If we provide him with all the necessary nutrients, the body will be able to cope with the excess of toxins much easier.

The body - both in man and in dog - is a rather complicated system. All it takes is for one part of it to stop working properly for the whole structure to gradually collapse. So if one organ suffers from any dysfunction, there is always a risk that other organs will slowly start to fail as well. Healthy intestines and liver are especially important for a smoothly functioning body. They need to be cared for with the utmost attention, as problems in their functioning translate into many other ailments.

Keeping your dog on a good diet and adding probiotics and digestive enzymes to his food is one of the best things you can do for your pet's health. Microalgae and wheat germ can be very valuable ingredients here. All of these products support liver function and help the liver to efficiently remove toxins from the body. Health problems and weakness very often result precisely from improper work of intestines. By taking a little better care of them, your dog will regain its former energy in no time.

a dog with Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome in a dog - symptoms

Your dog will start to feel an increased thirst. Drinking a lot of fluids also brings with it much more frequent urination. An increased appetite is also common, leading to a rapid increase in body weight.

During an illness, a dog's behaviour clearly changes. It loses energy, has no strength to run or play, sometimes it is lethargic and does not react to external stimuli. Muscles start to weaken and the condition of the coat also deteriorates.

Cushing's syndrome in a dog - diet, medication

Symptoms of Cushing's disease can easily be mistaken for other ailments, making it necessary to perform a series of diagnostic tests to detect and 100% confirm the syndrome. Your veterinarian can prescribe a number of homeopathic remedies designed to treat Cushing's disease. Dandelion improves the function of the adrenal glands, kidneys and liver. It provides the body with many valuable vitamins and also helps to fight inflammation. Burdock is very good for cleansing the body; it helps in removing toxins and regulates blood sugar levels. Arsenicum helps in restoring normal urination and controlling excessive thirst. Hepar Sulph improves the condition of the skin. Astragalus strengthens the body and improves its immunity. Additionally, it regulates the adrenal glands, also reduces blood pressure and restores normal sugar levels. Mercurius has a calming effect and reduces the stress your dog is under due to illness. Sulfur can regulate thirst and improve digestive function. It also strengthens the skin.

A dog suffering from Cushing's disease should not be given dry food. It's a good idea to cook meals for your pet - sometimes raw food can be harmful for him. However, it's worth betting on the least processed food that doesn't contain too many carbohydrates.