Diagnosis can be a challenge, but here are the signs.

By Deborah Nason

One of the signs of Cushing’s Syndrome is excessive drinking and urination.

Hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing’s Syndrome, says Dr. Ellen Behrend, is a rare syndrome in cats that occurs due to an excess production of cortisol. Dr. Behrend, a veterinary endocrinologist with the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, explains: “Cortisol is one of the ‘stress hormones.’ When the body is under stress, cortisol helps the body provide sugar for the organs. You can’t live without cortisol, but in excess amounts, it can cause all sorts of problems.” For example, she says, too much can suppress the immune system or make the body resistant to insulin. For this reason, 80 percent of cats with Cushing’s Syndrome also have diabetes. …

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