ENDOCRINOLOGY
It is important to identifying endocrine problems as early as possible. These serious and potentially life-threatening conditions are more manageable when caught early on.
The endocrine system is a group of tissues (mostly glands) that release hormones into the bloodstream. Hormones regulate:
- Metabolism
- Growth
- Development
- Reproduction
They are dispersed to different areas of the body, depending on the hormone’s function. When a hormonal balance is disturbed, an endocrine disorder can develop.
“Hyper” refers to an excess of hormone, and “hypo” refers to a deficiency in a hormone.
There are several common endocrine disorders found in dogs and cats:
- Diabetes mellitus is caused by a deficiency in or resistance to the hormone insulin.
- Hypothyroidism, which is often diagnosed in dogs, indicates that the animal has low levels of thyroid hormone.
- Hyperthyroidism, which frequently affects cats, indicates that the animal has high levels of thyroid hormones.
- Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) and Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) can also affect both species, although Cushing’s disease is rare in cats.
Contact us if your pet begins panting excessively, develops any skin issues (such as hair loss or dull coat), or shows any changes in behaviour, energy levels, appetite, weight, water consumption, or urination.
