Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome in Dogs and Cats 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Cushing’s syndrome, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a chronic hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to excessive cortisol. While this condition can affect many species, we’ll focus on the specific symptoms seen in dogs and cats—often mistaken for normal aging or other common issues. Let’s explore the signs with Dr Duncan Houston in this 2025 diagnostic update. 🧪🐶🐱

🐶 Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome in Dogs

In dogs, the disease develops slowly, which often leads to delays in diagnosis. The symptoms are easy to overlook until they become more advanced. Below are the most common signs pet parents should look for:

💧 Excessive Drinking and Urination

One of the first signs owners report is increased water intake—often requiring multiple daily bowl refills. Dogs may start urinating indoors, have accidents at night, or need more frequent walks. Incontinence and urinary tract infections are also common. ⚠️

Normal hydration: ~1 cup per 10 lbs of body weight/day
Cushing’s dogs: Often exceed this amount substantially 📈

🍽️ Increased Appetite

Dogs with Cushing’s develop a ravenous appetite. They may beg constantly, steal food, or even raid trash bins. Owners often mistake this for good health—but in this case, it’s a red flag. 🍗

🍩 Pot-Bellied Appearance

Seen in over 90% of cases, this results from both abdominal muscle weakening and fat redistribution. An enlarged liver may also protrude, contributing to the bulging belly. 🧸

💤 Muscle Weakness & Lethargy

Cortisol breaks down muscle proteins, leading to weakness. Affected dogs may struggle with stairs, avoid jumping on furniture, or seem generally tired. 🐕‍🦺

🩺 Skin and Coat Changes

• 🐾 Hair loss sparing head and limbs
• 🧻 Thin, wrinkled skin with delayed healing
• 🔄 Hair fails to regrow after grooming or clipping
• ⚫ Blackheads and dark skin patches (especially abdomen)
• 🧼 Recurrent skin infections—often without itching

⛔ One unique sign is calcinosis cutis—rock-hard calcium deposits under the skin, which may resemble firm lumps.

🧠 Other Less Common Signs

• 🌬️ Panting and shortness of breath
• 🩸 High blood pressure
• 🦴 Bladder stones (calcium oxalate)
• 💉 Diabetes mellitus (~10% of cases)
• 🧬 Pulmonary thromboembolism (blood clots in lungs)
• ⚡ Pseudomyotonia (severe stiffness—very rare)

🐱 Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome in Cats

Cats show similar—but more subtle—symptoms. Cushing’s is less common in felines but often more severe when diagnosed. 🧬

Common Signs in Cats:

• 📉 Weight loss with muscle wasting
• 🐷 Pot-bellied abdomen
• 🥛 Increased thirst and urination
• 🧻 Skin so thin it may tear spontaneously
• 👂 “Ear tip curling” due to fragile skin structure

💉 Diabetes Mellitus: A Key Clue

80% of cats with Cushing’s syndrome develop diabetes. Unlike dogs, whose cortisol triggers thirst directly, cats become polydipsic (drink excessively) because of diabetes.

💡 Most cats are diagnosed with Cushing’s only after they fail to respond to diabetes treatment.

📋 When to See Your Vet

If your pet shows several of the following signs, a vet visit is essential:

• 🚰 Increased drinking/urination
• 🐟 Appetite changes
• 🧻 Skin or coat problems
• 🪞 Distended belly
• 🪫 Low energy or weakness

🧪 Confirming the Diagnosis

Diagnosis requires lab testing and sometimes imaging. Initial screening includes blood work, urinalysis, and tests like the Low-Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test or ACTH Stimulation Test. For cats, regulating diabetes and testing further is key. 🧬

📱 Ask A Vet for Help

Concerned about your pet’s symptoms? Use the Ask A Vet app to:

• 🔍 Upload photos of physical changes
• 🧪 Share blood work and urinalysis
• 💬 Chat live with licensed vets
• 📅 Get lab test recommendations and next steps

🏁 Final Takeaway

Cushing’s syndrome can masquerade as normal aging. But the subtle signs—extra thirst, hunger, pot belly, or thinning skin—may indicate serious hormone imbalance. With early detection and supportive care, dogs and cats can lead healthier, happier lives. Don’t wait—get help from your vet or via the Ask A Vet app today. 🐾❤️