Depression is a common symptom in canine Cushing's disease, also known as Cushing's syndrome or hyperadrenocorticism. Other common symptoms include drinking and urinating more often than usual, infertility in dogs that haven't been neutered and hair loss.
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Identification
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"Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" defines depression in dogs with Cushing's syndrome as "extreme lethargy." Activities or objects that normally get the dog excited no longer do.
Cause
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According to PetPlace, the adrenal gland produces too much of the stress hormone cortisol. This could be due to tumors, problems with the pituitary gland which triggers the adrenals or a long-term side effect of corticosteroid medications.
Misconception
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Owners of older dogs often mistake symptoms like depression or excessive panting for Cushing's when it is just a normal part of canine aging.
Medication
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"Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" notes the medication Anipryl (deprenyl) is particularly good for treating depression in dogs with Cushing's disease.
Warning
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Symptoms of canine Cushing's disease are also similar to diabetes and Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism). Depression is often more apparent in Addison's disease than in Cushing's.
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