Question
My dog has diabetes and Cushing's. How does that work?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
Yes, a dog can have both, and your vet will treat them as one plan. Cushing's means the body makes too much cortisol, and that can make insulin work less well. Extra thirst alone won't tell you which one is acting up. Take his medicine list and your daily notes to every visit, and never change his treatment without your vet.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
When the thirst or hunger comes back, it's easy to go round in circles. What helps is the vet looking at the dog, the tests and the treatment together. One bad day doesn't automatically mean the Cushing's is worse.
What to write down
- Changes in drinking, peeing, appetite and energy
- All medicines, including recent changes
- Dates and copies of hormone tests
What to ask next
Ask what the next test is meant to find out, and which vet is in charge of both treatments. If your dog is vomiting, weak or won't eat, call the vet the same day. Don't wait for the next hormone test appointment.
Sources
- Will steroids or other medicines affect my dog's diabetes?How other medicines affect insulin
- Why is my diabetic dog drinking so much?Why he may drink so much
- Glucose stays high even on insulin. Why?When glucose stays high on insulin
- How often does a diabetic dog need vet check-ups?More check-ups with another illness
- When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?Signs he needs a vet the same day
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
Insulinoma: what is it and how is it different?
An insulinoma is a tumour that releases insulin and can cause dangerously low blood sugar.
Q&A
When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?
If he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.
Q&A
What should I write in a notebook for my diabetic dog?
Food, mood, water, injection times and your questions. Keep it short.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.