Cushing's Disease in Cats

Cushing's disease is a metabolic disorder, that occurs when there is imbalance of hormone levels in the body. The term "Cushing" is the name of the neurosurgeon who discovered this disease. In this condition there is overproduction of glucocorticoids (essential body hormones) produced by adrenal glands. One of the most important hormones that adrenal glands secrete is cortisol, that plays a key role in proper body functioning. However, too much cortisol is a cause of great concern, and can make the body sick. When adrenal glands malfunction the cortisol levels in the body increase to a great extent. High cortisol levels weakens the body considerably. The adrenal glands are situated above the kidneys, and their proper functioning is essential for overall well being. Although Cushing's disease affects both dogs and cats, its occurrence is observed more in dogs.

Cushing's Disease in Cats

Symptoms
Hair loss is the most commonly observed symptom of Cushing's disease. Dermatological changes such as fragile or thin skin and increased skin pigment are also noticed. The skin ruptures while handling the cat. In many cases, condition of cat is critical by the time the disease is identified. In some cats, hard lumps can be seen on the skin. Often cats diagnosed with disease, have diabetes. Other symptoms include:

• Excessive eating
• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Potbelly
• Inability to tolerate exercise
• Muscle weakness
• Enlarged liver
• Panting (heavy breathing)

Types of Cushing's disease

Cushing's disease is classified into 3 groups: Pituitary, Adrenal and Iatrogenic.

Tumor growth in a particular gland often leads to pituitary and adrenal cushing's disease. As a result, both the glands (pituitary and adrenal) produce cortisol in excess amounts. Pituitary tumors develop in brain, whereas adrenal tumors occur in kidneys. Cushing's disease is commonly caused due to pituitary tumors. Iatrogenic Cushing's disease develops when too much of corticosteriods (medicine) is taken to cure other illnesses. In this case the cat is treated by gradually reducing the dosage of drug. Corticosteriods should never be stopped abruptly as it can lead to adverse consequences.

Treatment
Treatment aims at stopping or reducing the excessive production of cortisol. Cats suffering from pituitary Cushing's disease, are often given medications that are either injected or administered orally. Depending upon the health of your cat, the veterinarian will choose best medicine that would give desired results. The medicines that are recommended are as follows:

• Lysodren (mitotane)
• Nizoral (ketoconazole)
• Anipryl (L-Deprenyl, Elderpryl, Selegiline)
• Trilostane (Vetoryl)

In case the medicines are not effective to treat the condition, surgery is recommended to remove the affected gland where the tumor has developed.

Herbs are a natural alternative for the treatment of Cushing's disease. They are safe and do not have any side effects. Herbal remedies along with conventional treatment ensure overall pet health. Herbs such as Arctium lappa (Burdock), Astragalus membranaceous (Huang Qi), Taraxucum officinale (Dandelion), help to restore normal cortisol level and maintain adrenal function. Certain homeopathic ingredients like sulphur and Arsenicum promote cat health and support normal digestive functioning.