Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder characterized by a deficiency of the adrenal hormones cortisol and/or aldosterone associated with faulty signals from the pituitary gland to the adrenal glands or by a problem in the adrenal glands. Deficiencies of cortisol and aldosterone can cause abnormal levels of sodium and potassium in the body. One important concern of Addison’s disease in cats and dogs is that it can be difficult to diagnose. Some breeds of dogs like rottweilers, standard poodles, great Danes, wheaten terriers, west highland white terriers, and Portuguese water dogs tend to have higher incidence of Addison’s disease. The adrenal hormones are important in maintaining optimum kidney filtration, normal blood pressure, and support good heart health among others. Affected pets will vomit and become weak. There is abnormal beating of the heart, trembling, and dehydration. Without proper treatment, a dog or cat with Addison’s disease can may die. There are several tests that your veterinarians Hendersonville, NC can perform to confirm the presence of Addison’s disease.
