Addison’s disease in dogs
Addison's disease is a condition in dogs where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. It is named after Thomas Addison, the scientist who first identified it. This disorder is a significant concern for our furry friends. While not very common, it can affect dogs of any age, with middle-aged females being more susceptible.
Addison's is often referred to as "the great pretender" because it can mimic other canine ailments, making it challenging to diagnose. However, with the right veterinary care and treatment, dogs with Addison's can lead normal lives. This is why early detection and proper management are essential for our dogs' well-being.
What is Addison’s disease in dogs?
Addison’s disease, also referred to as hypoadrenocorticism, is an endocrine condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce adequate corticosteroid hormones, such as cortisol and aldosterone. Situated close to the kidneys, these glands are essential for controlling stress response and electrolyte balance in the body. Insufficient hormone levels can result in severe health problems for dogs affected by this condition. Breeds like the Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, and Great Dane are commonly affected.
What are the causes of Addison’s disease in dogs?
Addison’s disease in dogs can stem from various causes. One common trigger is an autoimmune process, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys adrenal tissue. Damage to the adrenal glands can also result from factors like tumours, haemorrhage, or infarction. Additionally, granulomatous disease affecting the adrenal glands can contribute to its development. Certain medications, such as mitotane or trilostane, which inhibit adrenal enzyme function, can also lead to Addison’s disease in dogs.
In some cases, decreased production of releasing hormones from the brain, caused by inflammation, cancer, brain trauma, or congenital abnormalities, can result in secondary hypoadrenocorticism.
Symptoms of Addison’s disease in dogs
Addison’s disease in dogs can be challenging to detect based solely on signs. It's often diagnosed during routine blood tests that show electrolyte imbalances.
Initially, symptoms may be vague and intermittent, such as low energy, reduced appetite, occasional vomiting or diarrhoea, weakness, and a general feeling of being unwell. In severe cases, dogs may experience an Addisonian crisis, characterised by collapse, slow heart rate, and coma, which can be fatal if left untreated.
Treatment for Addison’s disease in dogs
Managing Addison's Disease in dogs includes addressing crises, replacing mineralocorticoids through oral medication or injections, stress management, confirming the diagnosis, and lifelong medication with monitoring.
Regular monitoring is essential to adjust medication dosages and maintain optimal hormone and electrolyte levels. Veterinarians typically conduct electrolyte blood testing and ACTH stimulation testing (a test that examines low cortisol) at intervals after starting therapy.
Long-term management requires a commitment to medication, including monthly injections administered by a veterinarian and daily steroid tablets given at home. While there is no cure for Addison's disease, with proper treatment and monitoring, many dogs can live fulfilling lives after diagnosis. Regular veterinary visits for reassessment and adjustments are essential.
Prognosis for dogs with Addison’s disease
The outlook for dogs with Addison's disease can vary based on how they respond to treatment and if they have other conditions like diabetes. If Addisonian crises are not treated, they can be fatal, highlighting the need for quick veterinary attention. By following a treatment plan that includes regular medication and check-ups, dogs with this condition can live a normal lifespan. It's crucial to stay vigilant and seek proactive veterinary care to achieve the best possible outcomes and ensure a high quality of life. Evaluate your dog’s quality of life with our scoring tool, here
In a crisis:
Immediately contact your vet if your dog shows signs of an Addisonian crisis or if you notice any worsening symptoms related to Addison's disease, such as lethargy, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, or sudden collapse.
It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life.
Don’t wait until the very end. It’s important to consider your pet’s end-of-life journey early, so that you, your family and your pet are all supported through the process.
When the time comes, we’re here for you. Goodbye Good Boy provides a range of end-of-life services to make the difficult process of saying goodbye a little easier.
We offer quality of life assessments from qualified vets, specialist grief counselling, at home euthanasia from dedicated end of life veterinarians, as well as cremation services and memorial options to help remember your pet for their unique character.
We are with you at every step of the journey.
To find out more, you can call our team of passionate pet lovers on 1800 953 619.