Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) causes significant suffering in affected dogs. Diagnosis and treatment dramatically improves quality of life for dogs with this hormonal disorder.
Untreated Cushing's disease causes chronic suffering through multiple mechanisms including constant hunger and thirst, muscle weakness causing difficulty rising, skin fragility and poor healing, susceptibility to infection, and respiratory difficulties from abdominal distension. The apparent vigor from elevated cortisol can mask the underlying suffering. Dogs with untreated Cushing's have compromised immune function and are at risk of serious secondary conditions including diabetes, urinary tract infections, and pulmonary thromboembolism. Treatment with trilostane requires careful monitoring and dose adjustment but significantly improves wellbeing and extends comfortable life.