Cushing’s disease among Spitz, poodle on rise

Dreadful Cushing’s disease among poodle and spitz is on rising. I searched over internet and saw that the cases are rising all over the world. In my town, I have seen this case more on cases of unvaccinated adults. 

Therefore, It is important t to understand this disease.

What causes the Cushing’s disease

There is an increase in levels of cortisone in blood. Among many other causes, this is due to a tumour in the Pituitary gland. 

Signs of Cushing’s disease-

1. Increased thirst and urination. Urinary incontinence
2. Increased panting
3. hair loss
4. Potbelly appearance despite low-calorie intake
5. Irritability and restless(Biting tendency?)
6. Thinning of skin, change in colour of skin
7. Hind limb weakness
8. Decrease in libido
9. less sleep
10. Increase in appetite- in 80% of cases

Diagnosis

Urinary Cortisol creatinine ratio test,

Cortisol-induced alkaline phosphatase test

Treatment

Depends upon the cause, if it is due to hyperadrenocorticism then therapy is aimed at reducing the of cortisol in the blood. Ketoconazole, Trilostane or selegiline. Consult your veterinarian. 

Dr Suranjan Sircar

Small animal veterinarian for last 20 years. works in self-owned pet clinic in Ranchi, India called Pluto Pet Clinic. Published several articles on pets and social media in various national and international pet magazines, blogs. Part of many international organisations including Nabuur, Mission Rabies, Asian Society of small animal dermatology, WSAVA.