Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is a common endocrine disorder in middle-aged and older dogs. Effective management dramatically improves quality of life, though treatment requires careful monitoring.
Untreated Cushing's disease causes substantial chronic suffering. Persistent thirst and urination disrupt normal behaviour; muscle weakness reduces mobility and enjoyment of activity; skin thinning increases infection risk; and the metabolic burden of chronic cortisol excess accelerates deterioration of multiple organ systems. Dogs with Cushing's often appear uncomfortable and show reduced engagement with normal activities. Effective treatment with trilostane typically produces marked welfare improvements within weeks. However, treatment requires careful monitoring — both under-treatment (persistent disease) and over-treatment (hypoadrenocorticism) carry welfare risks. Regular monitoring of cortisol levels ensures safe, effective management.