Cushing’s disease has many problems, including lethargy, poor appetite, excessive thirst and urination, and an enlarged belly. These symptoms make it difficult for your dog to enjoy life and keep you company. Therefore, getting the right solution is a priority for every pet parent. This is where CBD comes in. Read on for more.
What Is Cushing’s Disease?
This is a health problem that results from the overproduction of cortisol. The condition is also referred to as Cushing’s syndrome. The adrenal glands are responsible for the production of cortisol. The body needs cortisol, frequently called the “stress hormone,” which is crucial in how well dogs respond to stress. It controls several processes, including metabolism, blood sugar, and skin function.
Types of Cushing’s Disease
There are three major types of Cushing’s disease in dogs.
Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease (PDC)
This type of Cushing’s disease occurs when there is a growth or tumor on the pituitary glands. The tumor hampers the pituitary gland’s ability to transfer hormones to the adrenal gland, causing the gland to generate more cortisol as a result. It is the form of Cushing’s illness that is most prevalent. This growth could be either cancerous or benign.
Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s disease (ADC)
As the name suggests, this type results from growth or tumor on the adrenal glands. The gland is forced to produce excess cortisol. Dogs can develop a tumor on one or both adrenal glands, and the tumor can be cancerous or benign.
Iatrogenic Cushing’s Syndrome
Although uncommon, it does occasionally happen. Some dogs who receive excessive corticosteroid doses can develop Cushing’s disease. The medications raise cortisol levels. It may be treatable if the illness is discovered early enough and the steroids are stopped.
How is Cushing’s disease diagnosed in dogs?
As mentioned in the introduction, the signs of Cushing’s disease are similar to those of other canine health issues. This makes diagnosis difficult. Your dog will first undergo a thorough physical examination to identify Cushing’s illness.
Your dog’s blood and urine samples would likely need to be drawn for testing. They can use this information to establish whether or not your dog has Cushing’s disease.
The vet will look for a possible cause if they believe your dog has Cushing’s disease. They may advise an MRI and other tests to check for tumors on your dog’s adrenal or pituitary glands if they have not been treated with corticosteroids.
Cushing’s disease symptoms in dogs
Canine Cushing’s disease symptoms vary from one dog to the next, but here are the main ones to watch out for:
- Increased thirst: Your pooch will drink lots of water, leading to frequent urination.
- Skin changes: The skin thins and becomes more sensitive due to Cushing’s disease. Patches of scaly skin can appear occasionally. It may bruise more since it is thinner.
- Enlarged belly: Your dog’s tummy will appear bigger than usual.
- Weight gain results from increased cortisol levels, which force the body to hold onto sugar and fat. These accumulate, thus causing excessive weight.
- Lethargy and reduced activity levels: Your dog lacks energy, seems uninterested and unfocused, and is not eager to go outside.
- Behavioral changes: Your dog could become aggressive or grumpy due to exhaustion and bodily changes.
- Reduced immunity: Cortisol prevents the immune system’s effectiveness, thus exposing your dog to frequent infections.
Most of these symptoms do not mean your dog has Cushing’s disease. Some of them, like increased thirst and skin changes, may mean your pup has diabetes or allergies. The best thing is to take your dog to the vet for a proper diagnosis.
How Can CBD Oil Help
CBD oil is beneficial for dogs with Cushing’s disease. Below are some reasons CBD is an excellent supplement for Cushing’s disease.
CBD oil and tumors
Research shows that CBD can help slow down the growth of tumors. It can even kill the tumor cells, thus suppressing them. Tumors are the major cause of Cushing’s disease. Although there is limited research on this, the existing ones give hope to pet parents. It is, however, important to consult the vet before using CBD for tumors.
CBD oil and your dog’s skin
Cushing’s disease causes skin issues in dogs. It leads to skin thinning, thus exposing your dog to other skin problems. CBD has been proven to help with eczema, acne, and psoriasis in humans. A specific study on dogs reveals that CBD can help with canine dermatitis. This makes it a good choice for skin health in dogs.
CBD oil and the side effects of Cushing’s disease
There may be adverse consequences from the drugs used to treat Cushing’s disease. For instance, certain drugs may result in pain, nausea, and vomiting. The anti-pain and anti-nausea supplement CBD helps with these side effects.
One study found that CBD effectively reduced pain in pups with osteoarthritis. In fact, studies on humans have demonstrated that CBD can lessen unpleasant chemotherapy side effects such as pain, nausea, and vomiting.
CBD oil and the prevention of Cushing’s disease
Instead of allergy drugs based on corticosteroids, several vets and pet parents use CBD. There is evidence that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, so it helps lessen the swelling related to allergies.
However, more research is necessary before we can say whether CBD can benefit dogs with allergies.
CBD oil and your dog’s overall wellness
Some vets recommend feeding your dog CBD oil daily, just like a multivitamin, as it is considered a fantastic general supplement for dogs. Dogs often tolerate CBD well and find it to be safe.
Ask the vet whether you can offer your dog CBD daily because it boosts its overall health and immune system.
Cbd for dogs with Cushing’s disease dosage
It is advisable to start slowly with CBD oil dosage if you intend to start your dog on a regimen and want to monitor how they respond. The dosage largely depends upon the size and breed of your dog, though one may begin with a dose of 35 to 50 mg once daily.
For smaller breeds, 35 mg is good; however, 50 mg can be more suitable for larger breeds. You may give your pet CBD oil straight, mix it with their food, or consider getting CBD dog treats.
Best CBD for Dogs with Cushing’s Disease
Honest Paws CBD Oil Tincture Well
Honest Paws is well known for high-quality CBD oil for dogs. The company has a 30-day money-back guarantee and the best customer service. This oil has no artificial additives and is third-party tested.
Feature
- It has no artificial additives, so it would not harm your dog.
- Third-party tested for safety on your dog.
- Organic and non-GMO ingredients to ensure your dog gets the best.
Pro
- Made in the USA.
- Uses organic ingredients.
- Does not have artificial additives.
- Third-party tested.
Cons
- There are limited flavors to select from.
CBDFx Bacon Flavored Oil
Boost your dog’s immunity with this immune-enhancing CBD oil. The bacon flavor makes it the best for picky eaters. You will find it in four strengths, perfect for all dog breeds.
Feature
- Available in four strengths to suit all dog breeds.
- Bacon-flavored to tempt picky eaters.
- Uses organic and human-grade ingredients to ensure safety.
Pro
- Vegan and human-grade.
- It has a rich flavor.
- It uses broad-spectrum oil.
Cons
- It can include other variations.
Holistapet CBD Oil
Cushing’s disease comes with skin problems, which is where Holistapet CBD oil comes in. Consuming it soothes your dog’s skin while boosting its overall wellness. It uses organic hemp and is third-party tested.
Feature
- It uses organic hemp, so it won’t make your dog high.
- Third-party-tested for safety.
Pro
- Supports skin health.
- Uses organic hemp from Colorado farms.
- It has no gluten.
Cons
- Only unused and unopened products are refundable.
What is the best natural treatment for Cushing’s disease in dogs?
It is important to consult the vet before introducing natural remedies for Cushing’s disease. Here are the alternative natural management options for dogs with Cushing’s disease:
Herbs
Chinese herbs like ginkgo biloba are great for Cushing’s disease. The herbs lower cortisol levels. Other western herbs, including kelp, garlic, milk thistle, blessed thistle, and prickly ash bark, also work well. Avoid herbs like borage leaf because they stimulate the adrenal glands.
Homeopathy
Depending on your dog’s symptoms, various treatments may be helpful. A homeopath will examine your dog and recommend the best treatment.
Acupuncture
As an additional therapy, acupuncture can be helpful. It controls the endocrine system. Additionally, it lowers inflammation.
Is coconut oil good for dogs with Cushing’s disease?
Yes. Adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet is a terrific way to give the body the extra lipid energy required to operate properly and can also aid with Cushing’s disease symptoms.
What herbs are best for Cushing’s in dogs?
Both Chinese and Western herbs are best for Cushing’s disease. Some safe herbs include eight treasures, ginkgo biloba, turmeric, kelp, milk thistle, asparagus, and nettle.
How do you reverse Cushing’s disease in dogs?
If Cushing’s illness is adrenal-dependent, assuming the tumor hasn’t spread, the only option is risky, and the best option is medication.
What foods should you avoid with Cushing’s syndrome?
Avoid processed foods that are heavy in salt since they can raise blood pressure. Emphasize fresh produce, low-sodium soups, dressings, and spreads.
What makes Cushing’s situation worse?
The prolonged use of cortisol-like glucocorticoids at high doses is the most frequent trigger of Cushing’s syndrome. Other medical disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma are treated with these medications.
What Chinese herbs can I give my dog for Cushing’s?
Some Chinese herbs to give your dog for Cushing’s disease include Sin Miao San, eight Treasures, Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, Ginkgo biloba, Long Dan Xie Gan, and Mai Men Dong Tang.
What foods are good for dogs with Cushing’s disease?
Some of the best foods for Cushing’s disease include eggs, salmon, chicken, beef, seedless apples, carrots, pumpkin, butternut, bananas, berries, spinach, peas, bok choy, sugar and salt-free peanut butter, and broccoli.
Is turmeric good for dogs with Cushing’s?
Yes. Turmeric is one of the best herbs to use for Cushing’s disease. The herb strengthens your dog’s kidneys, liver, and digestive system. You can add it directly to your dog’s food.
Does milk thistle help dogs with Cushing’s?
Yes. Milk thistle is another excellent herb for Cushing’s disease. It protects your dog’s liver from the excessive amounts of cortisol resulting from Cushing’s disease. Oral administration is the best.
When to euthanize a dog with Cushing’s disease?
When a dog with Cushing’s disease becomes less active than usual, it is the ideal time to euthanize it. The decision to euthanize a dog is difficult. You’re not just hurting your pet’s heart; you’re also breaking your own.
Can CBD oil help with Cushing’s Disease in humans?
Yes. Full-spectrum CBD treats the imbalance that can be at the root of tumors. This suggests that the hormonal imbalance in Cushing’s syndrome of the pituitary and adrenals can be treated with full-spectrum hemp extract CBD.
Can Cytopoint Cause Cushing’s Disease?
No. In dogs with other disorders, such as Cushing’s disease, who may not be allowed to use other symptomatic therapies like steroids, there are no contraindications to utilizing this medicine.
Final Thoughts
Watching your dog suffer from Cushing’s disease is heartbreaking. But thanks to the evolution of CBD, pet parents can now manage this condition and ensure their dogs live longer. Using this high-quality supplement lowers the severity of Cushing’s disease side effects.
Additionally, CBD supports skin wellness, which is essential since dogs suffering from Cushing’s disease have issues with their skin. Using CBD lowers the chances of skin thinning.
Furthermore, CBD helps suppress tumors and other growths that cause Cushing’s disease. Always consult an experienced vet before introducing CBD to your sick dog. The vet will guide you on the dosage and usage of CBD based on your dog’s needs.