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Understanding Cushing's Disease in Dogs: Does Cushing's Cause Weight Loss?

Houndsy
Fri, Jul 11, 2025

Introduction
What is Cushing's Disease?
Does Cushing's Cause Weight Loss?
Signs and Symptoms of Cushing's Disease
Diagnosing Cushing's Disease
Treatment Options for Cushing's Disease
The Importance of Regular Vet Check-ups
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

As responsible pet owners, we continuously strive to ensure our furry friends lead healthy and happy lives. Yet, conditions such as Cushing's disease can pose challenges that may affect their well-being. Did you know that approximately 1 in 100 dogs over the age of 10 are diagnosed with this condition? Cushing's disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is an endocrine disorder that causes the body to produce excessive cortisol, which can result in a myriad of symptoms, including weight changes.

In this blog post, we will explore the question: Does Cushing's cause weight loss in dogs? We will delve into the causes, symptoms, diagnostic processes, and treatment options for Cushing's disease, while also discussing how it impacts your dog's weight. By the end of this post, you will have a clearer understanding of Cushing's disease and how to manage its effects on your beloved pet.

What is Cushing's Disease?

Cushing's disease occurs when there is an overproduction of cortisol, a steroid hormone that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including metabolism and immune response. This overproduction can be triggered by several factors, primarily tumors on the pituitary or adrenal glands, or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.

Types of Cushing's Disease

Pituitary-Dependent Cushing's Disease (PDH): This is the most common form, accounting for about 80-85% of cases. It occurs when a benign tumor on the pituitary gland secretes excess adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), stimulating the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol.
Adrenal-Dependent Cushing's Disease (ADH): In this form, tumors develop on the adrenal glands themselves, either benign (adenomas) or malignant (carcinomas), leading to excessive cortisol production.
Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease: This occurs when dogs are administered corticosteroids for other medical conditions, resulting in symptoms resembling Cushing's disease.

Does Cushing's Cause Weight Loss?

The answer is complex. While Cushing's disease is often associated with weight gain, particularly due to fat redistribution and a pot-bellied appearance, it can also lead to weight loss in certain cases.

Understanding Weight Changes in Cushing's Disease

Increased Appetite: Dogs with Cushing's disease typically experience an increased appetite (polyphagia), which can lead to weight gain. However, the hormonal imbalance can also cause muscle wasting, resulting in a thinner appearance despite an increase in food intake.
Muscle Loss: As the disease progresses, muscle atrophy can occur due to the catabolic effects of excess cortisol. This can contribute to a bony or skeletal appearance, leading to weight loss as muscle mass diminishes.
Fat Redistribution: A hallmark of Cushing's disease is the redistribution of fat, which may lead to a bulging belly while other areas of the body may appear thinner. This can give the illusion of weight loss even when the overall weight may not significantly change.
Concurrent Conditions: Cushing's disease can lead to other health issues, such as diabetes or pancreatitis, which may also cause weight loss. If your dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, it's essential to monitor any changes in weight and discuss them with your veterinarian.

Signs and Symptoms of Cushing's Disease

Recognizing the signs of Cushing's disease is crucial for early diagnosis and management. Common symptoms include:

Increased thirst and urination (polydipsia and polyuria)
Increased appetite (polyphagia)
Skin changes: thinning skin, hair loss, and increased susceptibility to infections
Pot-bellied appearance: due to fat redistribution
Lethargy: reduced energy levels and exercise intolerance
Muscle wasting: leading to a noticeable weight loss in some dogs

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it's important to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosing Cushing's Disease

Diagnosing Cushing's disease involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging. Your veterinarian will typically start with:

Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam to assess your dog's overall health, weight, and any visible symptoms.
Blood Tests: These may include a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile, and urinalysis. Elevated levels of liver enzymes and cholesterol can indicate Cushing's disease.
Specific Diagnostic Tests:
- ACTH Stimulation Test: Measures cortisol levels before and after administering ACTH.
- Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test: Assesses how cortisol levels respond to dexamethasone.
- Urine Cortisol to Creatinine Ratio: Evaluates cortisol levels in urine samples.
Imaging: Ultrasound or CT scans may be used to visualize the adrenal glands or pituitary gland to check for tumors.

Treatment Options for Cushing's Disease

While Cushing's disease cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively through various treatment options. The choice of treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.

1. Medications

Trilostane (Vetoryl): This medication helps to suppress cortisol production from the adrenal glands. It is the most commonly prescribed treatment for both PDH and ADH.
Mitotane: In some cases, this drug may be used to selectively destroy adrenal cortex cells, reducing cortisol production.

2. Surgery

Adrenalectomy: If an adrenal tumor is present, surgical removal may be an option. This is more common in cases of adrenal-dependent Cushing's disease.
Pituitary Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be performed on the pituitary gland to remove tumors.

3. Radiation Therapy

For pituitary-dependent cases where surgery is not feasible, radiation therapy may be used to target the tumor and reduce cortisol production.

4. Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments

Managing your dog's weight is vital, especially if they are experiencing weight loss or muscle wasting. Some dietary considerations include:

Low-Fat Diet: A diet low in fat can help manage weight and reduce the risk of pancreatitis.
High-Quality Protein: Providing easily digestible proteins can support muscle maintenance.
Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups and blood work should be part of your dog's ongoing care to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and adjust as necessary.

The Importance of Regular Vet Check-ups

If your dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's disease, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring their condition. This includes:

Routine blood tests to assess cortisol levels.
Adjusting medication dosages based on your dog's response.
Monitoring for any potential side effects from medications.

Engaging with your veterinarian regularly can help ensure your dog's quality of life remains high and any weight changes are addressed promptly.

Conclusion

Cushing's disease is a complex condition that can significantly impact your dog's health and well-being. While it is primarily associated with weight gain due to fat redistribution and increased appetite, weight loss can occur as a result of muscle wasting and other concurrent health issues. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options available is essential for managing this condition effectively.

If you're looking to enhance your dog's feeding experience during their treatment, consider exploring the Houndsy Kibble Dispenser. Our product simplifies the feeding process, ensuring your dog receives the right portion sizes comfortably. With our commitment to convenience and design excellence, feeding your pet can be both enjoyable and visually appealing.