By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is uncommon in cats compared with dogs, but it can still cause vague illness or sudden collapse. Canine overview: Addison’s disease in dogs. Broader companion themes: Addison’s symptoms, causes, and treatment themes.
We do not provide medication doses. Hormone replacement is prescribed and adjusted only by a veterinarian.
Key takeaways
- Signs may include lethargy, poor appetite, vomiting, weight loss, and weakness that come and go.
- An Addisonian crisis can look like shock, severe dehydration, or collapse and needs emergency care.
- Electrolyte changes and endocrine testing help confirm suspicion; cats need feline-specific interpretation.
- Long-term management is possible with veterinary monitoring; do not start or stop steroids from internet advice.
Why it is easy to miss in cats
Cats hide illness well. Recurrent “gastroenteritis,” waxing lethargy, or unexplained electrolyte abnormalities should prompt discussion of adrenal disease with your veterinarian.
Diagnosis and care themes
- History, exam, bloodwork, and electrolytes
- Confirmatory adrenal testing as directed for cats
- Hospital support for crisis cases (fluids and intensive care)
- Lifelong replacement therapy and rechecks when stable
Emergency signs
- Collapse, inability to stand, or profound weakness
- Severe vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat with rapid decline
- Known Addison’s cat that missed medication and looks unwell
FAQ
Is feline Addison’s the same as in dogs?
The hormone problem is similar, but frequency, presentation, and dosing plans differ. Follow feline-specific veterinary guidance.
Can stress trigger a crisis?
Illness, boarding, or other stress can worsen signs in untreated or under-managed patients. Call your clinic if your cat declines after a stressor.
Talk with a vet
Suspected crisis: emergency hospital. Stable education: dialavet.com.
References
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Hypoadrenocorticism (feline notes).
- ACVIM and feline internal medicine textbook chapters on adrenal insufficiency.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Addison’s Disease educational materials.
Disclaimer: Educational only. No medication doses are provided. Follow your veterinarian for testing and therapy.
