If your aging dog is lethargic and seems depressed, it may be more than old age, it could be Cushing's disease. While Cushing's disease can mimic some problems brought on by old age, detection and treatment can add many healthy, happy years to a dog's life.
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Definition
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Cushing's disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, occurs when the dog's body starts producing an increased level of cortisol, according to the FDA. While dogs naturally produce cortisol, too much can harm an animal and weaken its immune system. This can often be caused when a dog is on the medication containing glucocorides, or can be an internal problem with the adrenal glands or pituitary gland.
Symptoms
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Depression is just one of the symptoms, which is one reason it can go unnoticed by owners believing the lethargy is simply old age. According to the Cushing's Disease In Dogs Guide, one of the most identifiable signs of the disease is increased water consumption and urination. Other symptoms include hair loss, skin thinning, increased appetite and enlarged abdomen.
Diagnosis
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Veterinarians use blood tests to diagnose Cushing's and to determine how the disease started, which also determines treatment methods. According to the FDA, up to 85 percent of Cushing's is caused by the pea-sized pituitary gland. The remaining cases are caused by tumors found in the adrenal gland, which can be detected via an ultrasound.
Treatment and Depression
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Vetoryl, one of the treatments for Cushing's, can sometimes lead to worsening depression. According to Dechra U.S., the makers of Vetoryl, this often-prescribed medicine for Cushing's can result in severe depression in dogs.
Recognizing Depression
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According to vetinfo.com, many times a sick dog will act depressed or lethargic, but a severely depressed dog will not want to be with you, will stop eating and lose weight. A depressed dog can suddenly begin acting aggressively toward its owner or seem agitated and restless. Proper treatment of Cushing's will make the depression disappear.
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