Adrenal Gland Problems in Cats

Cushing's Disease

• There are three forms of hyperadrenocorticism, also known as Cushing's Disease, in cats. One form, which is accidentally induced by the veterinarian, is called Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease. This form is a result of an excessive amount of steroids made from cortisol which are given to the cat through oral pills, topical creams or injections.

  Adrenal tumors, benign or malignant (cancerous) tumors in the adrenal glands, cause adrenal glands begin to produce excessive amounts of corticosteroids. This can occur in one or both adrenal glands.

  Lastly, a pituitary tumors (tumors that have formed in the pituitary gland) cause excessive amounts of the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). ACTH controls the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands.

Symptoms of Hyperadrenocorticism

• Common symptoms of hyperadrenocorticism include an increase of appetite, thirst and urination. These symptoms are often accompanied by an enlarged abdomen, fragile and thin skin, wasting and weakness of the muscles and hair loss. Lastly, you may also notice that your cat has become lethargic.

  Almost ninety percent of cats who suffer from Cushing's Syndrome also suffer from diabetes, so owners should be on the lookout for symptoms of diabetes as well.

Treatment for Hyperadrenocorticism

• Treatment depends on which form of hyperadrenocorticism is present. For example, Iatrogenic Cushing's Disease would need a slow decrease of medication until the adrenal glands can resume proper functioning. If there are tumors present, then the adrenal glands will need to be removed and an adrenalectomy will be preformed. Medications and supplements will need to be used for the remainder of the cat's life in order for the healthiest life possible.

Addison's Disease

• Though rare, Addison's Disease is also known as hypoadrenocorticism and occurs because of issues with infections, the immune system or a discontinuation of a steroid medication. In an autoimmune disorder, the immune system attacks the adrenal gland. Long-term steroid use can cause this condition also, so slowly decreasing the medication over time can rid of the issue. Rarely, an infection to the adrenal gland can also cause Addison's Disease.

Conn's Syndrome

• Medically referred to as hyperaldosteronism, this rare disease occurs when abnormal cell growths occur in the adrenal gland. These growths cause the adrenal gland to produce excess amounts of the hormone called aldosterone. This causes low levels of potassium as well as high blood pressure. In the event of Conn's Syndrome, the cat may have surgery to remove the tumors. If the tumors cannot be removed, medication can be administered and potassium can be supplemented to control the issue.

Steroids

• Steroids have the potential to cause issues with the pituitary gland which in turn affect the adrenal glands. Steroids can also cause direct issues with the adrenal glands themselves. In the case of steroids, most cats can be slowly weaned off the medications. As they are weaned off the steroids, the symptoms and conditions will disappear completely.