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How do vets know if it's kidney disease or Cushing's in my pet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 9 years and 4 months old | 10 lbs

How does a vet tell the difference between kidney disease and cushings disease?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on May 5th, 2017

Kidney disease is commonly diagnosed by performing a urinalysis and blood chemistry. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels will be elevated and the urine may not be well concentrated. For cushings disease the doctor will perform a ACTH stimulation test or a dexmethasone suppression test. Both are blood tests typically done in a series.

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