From behavioral changes to hair loss to weight fluctuations, endocrine conditions can cause a range of unusual signs in senior pets. As with people, disruptions in hormone production are widespread in our four-legged friends, and they often come with age. Do you think your pet may be experiencing hormonal fluctuations? Here are four common endocrine conditions of older pets, along with some signs that you may observe at home:

#1: Hyperthyroidism

Chiefly a disorder of aging cats, a hyper (i.e., overactive) thyroid gland leads to an excess of thyroxine, a thyroid hormone, in the body. Hyperthyroidism can occur in any species, but it is the most common endocrine condition in cats, affecting approximately 90% of patients aged 10 or older. Weight loss is often the primary sign of an overactive thyroid despite an unchanged or sometimes increased appetite. Other common signs include excessive vocalization, increased activity levels or restlessness, variations in the sleep-wake cycle, attitude changes, or poor hair coat. Your veterinarian can usually diagnose hyperthyroidism with a few simple blood tests; however, more advanced diagnostics may be necessary in some cases. 

Fortunately, malignant thyroid tumors are rare in cats, and most hyperthyroid patients have benign thyroid overgrowth. However, despite the non-cancerous nature of most cases, hyperthyroidism does require treatment with oral medication, surgery, or a special radioactive iodine procedure. Controlling this condition can be complicated, especially if other conditions like kidney disease are present. 

#2: Hypothyroidism

The opposite of hyperthyroidism, this condition refers to a deficiency of thyroid hormone in the body. Hypothyroidism is commonly seen in medium- to large-breed, middle-aged dogs, such as the golden retriever, Doberman pinscher, and Irish setter. Cats can also become hypothyroid, but usually only as a result of a medication overdose to treat hyperthyroidism. The most common signs of an underactive thyroid include sluggishness, hair loss, dry, flaky, red, or thickened skin, itchiness, droopy skin around the face, and a tendency to seek out heat. The pet’s circadian rhythm may also change, with affected animals sleeping more during the day and waking more at night. Diagnosing hypothyroidism can be slightly more challenging, as many conditions can cause low thyroid hormone levels in the blood. Once a diagnosis is established, treatment is as straightforward as taking a lifelong, daily thyroid hormone supplement and undergoing routine blood tests to ensure accurate dosing. Without treatment, affected pets may exhibit more severe signs and increased discomfort. 

#3: Diabetes mellitus

One of the most common endocrine disorders of dogs and cats is also one frequently diagnosed in people. Diabetes occurs when the body does not properly use insulin, the hormone responsible for transporting glucose throughout the body. This leads to elevated blood glucose levels and a range of clinical signs, including weight loss, increased thirst and urination, changes in appetite, cloudy eyes, and recurrent infections. Diagnosing diabetes in pets is typically based on clinical signs and lab work that indicates a blood glucose increase, glucose in the urine, and other changes. Treating diabetes involves routine insulin injections that may be necessary lifelong, although many pets go into remission. Unlike people, Type I and II diabetes have no clear distinction in pets. 

#4: Cushing’s disease

Also known as hyperadrenocorticism, this condition is characterized by an elevated production of the hormone cortisol. Cushing’s disease is primarily diagnosed in older dogs, although cats can also experience this disorder. Excess cortisol can accumulate in the body through a few different mechanisms, including a pituitary or adrenal gland tumor or prolonged use of steroid medication. Affected pets will exhibit similar signs to those of other endocrine disorders, such as increased drinking and urination, changes in hair and skin, increased appetite, and altered activity levels. Diagnosing Cushing’s disease can be challenging, and your pet may need a variety of blood, urine, or imaging tests for an accurate diagnosis. The treatment plan will depend on the disease etiology and may involve surgery or, more commonly, oral medication. 

While many pets can live long, happy lives despite an endocrine disorder, managing their care is essential, but can prove problematic as they enter their geriatric life stage. 

As your pet’s condition progresses, our veterinary hospice or telehospice care team will guide you and your pet through their final moments, providing comfort and peace throughout the process.