I'm really in need of some advice or shared experiences. My sweet 9-year-old beagle, Max, hasn't been himself lately, and I’m just feeling so lost. About two weeks ago, I started noticing he was drinking a ton of water and seemed to be constantly hungry, which isn’t like him at all. He’s always been a bit of a couch potato, but recently his energy levels have just plummeted, and he looks like he’s gaining weight even though his diet hasn’t changed. I took him to the vet who mentioned something about Cushing’s disease, and now we’re in this weird limbo waiting for lab results. The vet was clear but I still feel confused and worried. Has anyone else gone through this with their pup? How did you cope with all the uncertainty and treatment decisions? Any insights or personal stories would really help ease my mind right now, especially while waiting on these test results. Thank you so much in advance!
Hello there! I can understand why you're concerned about the possibility of Cushing's in your pet. Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, happens when the body produces too much of a hormone called cortisol. It’s more common in older dogs but can occur in cats too, albeit rarely.
Typical signs include increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, hair loss, and a pot-bellied abdomen. If your furry friend shows any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to get a professional assessment.
While you're at home, monitor your pet’s behavior for any changes in eating or drinking habits and take note of any physical or energy-level changes. Try to maintain a consistent feeding and exercise schedule, and ensure your pet has easy access to fresh water.
However, if you notice symptoms like rapid panting, vomiting, diarrhea, or sudden weakness, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately, as these could indicate a more serious condition.
To get a clearer picture of what’s happening, consider booking a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet. We can help evaluate your pet and discuss the next best steps to keep them healthy and happy!
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