How life threatening is cushings disease in dogs?
Cushing’s disease is a disorder that affects older dogs, cats and horses. Although the symptoms of Cushing’s can be dramatic, it is a manageable disorder.The FactsCushing’s is caused by a disorder in a dog’s brain that results in an overproduction of cortisol, an adrenal hormone. Certain dogs, like poodles, retrievers and boxers, are genetically more inclined to develop Cushing’s.FeaturesSymptoms of Cushing’s can be mistaken for traditional aging signs. They include thin or fragile skin, hair loss, recurring infections and a pot-bellied appearance. If Cushing’s isn’t detected and treated, it can kill the dog.Familiar TiesCushing’s disease in dogs, horse and cats is caused by the same biological disorder that causes Parkinson’s in humans. In all cases, it can be managed, but not halted.TreatmentsThe treatment for Cushing’s is generally a round of prescribed medication that seeks to balance a dog’s cortisol production and eliminate the causes of Cushing’s. With treatment, the disorder ca
