Most pet parents have difficulty in identifying the symptoms of Cushing’s disease. It is not entirely their fault. The symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome are similar to several other ailments, which makes it difficult to isolate and identify.
The most common symptoms include:
- Unusual hunger and thirst
- Unusual urination
- Hair loss
- Pot Bellied appearance
- Unnecessary exhaustion
- Unnecessary panting
Cushing’s disease affects a dog’s immune system severely. That is why they develop multiple health problems. It makes the diagnosis of the illness even more difficult. Vets have to examine a dog’s blood and run several tests to determine if a dog is suffering from Cushing’s disease. The ailment can stem from tumors on the Pituitary gland or Adrenal glands of a dog. It can also be the result of excessive steroid intake.
Traditional treatments depend on the cause of the disease. It can include surgery and removal of tumors, medications, or both. Surgery is suggested if the ailment is caused due to a tumor on the Adrenal glands. However, if the tumor is present on the Pituitary gland, or it has spread to any other part of the body, surgery will not be useful. Traditional medicines can keep the disease at bay, but they cause several side effects. Some of these side effects can be worse than the symptoms of Cushing’s disease. That is why many vets these days are suggesting alternative and holistic remedies. A dog suffering from Cushing’s disease can live a happy and healthy life with the administration of these alternative approaches and medications. Pet parents have also noticed the positive effects of these holistic approaches over traditional treatments. We have discussed some of these natural remedies below.
CBD Oils
CBD oils are one of the most recent ways to provide natural adrenal support for dogs. It helps the dog’s body to re-establish the balance in the endocrine system. They promote the proper functioning of Pituitary and Adrenal glands. It also suppresses the overproduction of cortisol in the Adrenal glands. Cannabidiol provides several other benefits in the dog’s body, such as:
Encourages a healthy appetite.
Regulates a dog’s response to stress.
Restores urinary bladder control.
- Promotes healthy skin and fur.
- Increases energy.
- Enhances stamina
- Reduces breathing problems
- Improves immune system
It also reduces the other symptoms of Cushing’s disease with regular use.
Diet and Supplements
Diet and supplements can have a lot of positive influence on a dog suffering from Cushing’s disease. Although commercial food is convenient to use, most of them may contain several additives that are not convenient for a dog suffering from Cushing’s disease. Unless your vet has prescribed a commercial food that is specific for Cushing’s disease, it is advisable to stick to homemade food. Most vets advise high protein food and ask pet parents to refrain from feeding grains or potatoes.
Milk thistle supplements are recommended for dogs with Cushing’s disease. Vets often prescribe it because it aids in liver function. Milk thistle promotes bile flow through a dog’s liver and has antioxidant qualities. Pet parents can purchase milk thistle supplements at a local drug store.
Fish oil is also highly recommended for dogs. It contains essential fatty acids, such as Omega 3 and Omega 6. These fatty acids are essential for healthy skin, better immunity, metabolism, and blood circulation.
Herbal Remedies
Although there is no scientific proof that dandelion can cure Cushing’s disease, it can regulate Adrenal function to some extent. Many pet parents have shared that dandelion alleviates symptoms of the disease. Dandelion tonic also benefits a dog’s liver and kidney function.
Excessive thirst is one of the symptoms of Cushing’s disease. It can also be a side effect of the medicines that treat the disease. Arsenicum can reduce that symptom to a great extent.
Cushing’s disease not only causes hair fall and patches of missing fur on dogs, but it also causes itchiness on the skin. Dogs often chew into their skin because of the irritation. Hepar Sulph and sulfur can reduce itchiness and dry skin. They also improve an ailing dog’s skin quality and appearance.
Burdock can be used as a medicinal supplement to remove toxic substances from a dog’s body. It helps in cleansing and detoxifying the internal parts of a dog’s body. Burdock is usually used in combination with other supplements.
Ginkgo Biloba can slow down the release of cortisol from the Adrenal glands and help in reducing several symptoms of Cushing’s disease.
The popularity of alternative and holistic approaches for the treatment of Cushing’s disease is increasing every day. Pet parents are not only satisfied with the positive results, but they also feel happy that there are no horrible side effects like traditional medicine. But it is essential to consult a vet before administering any alternative remedies.