Cushing's Disease

C

calicoquette

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Our eight and 3/4 -year-old ,male sheltie, Spinner, is showing possible signs of Cushing's disease. He's been on hypothyroid medication twice daily for 2-3 years, and has been adjusting well. During the past year, he's had two incidents of urinating constantly in the house for which I had him tested. His results were normal except that his urine was dilute. He's always been hyperactive , and will have a tendency to drink lots of water when it's available, so I felt that this might have been the case. Recently, the hair on his tail started falling out, leaving him with a 'rat tail'. I haven't noticed any other hair loss, but his skin is a bit flaky. I had his thyroid retested(it had been done 5 mo. ago as well and repeatdedly since his diagnosis), and today it came back normal.
The vet said I should decide between waiting a few months to see if the hair loss is a seasonal cycle change ,or having an ACTH test performed. I don't know what to do at this point. From my research, this seems like a confusing, complex disease to diagnose and treat. I was wondering if anyone could shed some light on this matter for me. I am terribly upset at this point. Thank you!
 
I would do the ACTH test. It's fairly simple, and will give you answers. The hyperactivity is the only thing you are describing that is NOT Cushings related.
 
I agree with Clantyre. We had the ACTH performed on our dog, and it was an easy process. At least you can eliminate that as the cause if it comes back negative. And if it's positive, you know what you're up against.
 
corbinam said:
I agree with Clantyre. We had the ACTH performed on our dog, and it was an easy process. At least you can eliminate that as the cause if it comes back negative. And if it's positive, you know what you're up against.
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I totally agree. The saying "knowing is 1/2 the battle" is really true. You'll feel better just knowing what your are or are not up against. Good luck!!
 
I had a sheltie diagnosed with Cushings Disease several years ago. I recommend getting the ACTH done. It was not a complicated test at all and it was worth it to get a diagnosis.
 
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