Why is my Cushing's dog losing weight, picky eating, and shivering?

Question

7 year dog (Lucy) diagnosed with PDH and on Lysodren with regular testing (which reads ok with Vet). However, Lucy has lost significant weight (now 52 lbs from 65). Very thin and for quite awhile now a very finicky eater (where once she was not so at all). I give her a good quality, grain free kibble mixed with good organic cooked meats, sweet potato, small amount yogurt, greens & bone broth. She also gets spells where she shivers (not from being cold). Unable to gain weight. HELP! Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 8 months old | 52 lbs

Lauren Jones VMD · Accepted Answer

As you know, Cushing's disease causes excessive cortisol (steroid) production, which can lead to an increased appetite. With the cortisol levels under control, Lucy's appetite may have regulated, but 13 pounds is a pretty significant weight loss. Normally, you should be able to easily feel (but not see) a dog's ribs and see a waistline when looking down on them from above. We can easily become accustomed to seeing overweight dogs as "normal" and can perceive a healthy weight as being too thin. (Without examining Lucy, I can't comment as to if she is truly underweight, or if her weight is appropriate.) Since her appetite has become picky and her Cushing's disease seems to be well controlled, there is also a chance that she has developed some primary intestinal issues (such as inflammatory bowel disease) chronic pancreatitis, or intestinal parasites. At this point, I recommend taking Lucy to her vet for another exam to assess her overall body condition and consider additional diagnostic testing (CBC, chemistry and abdominal ultrasound) to try to get to the bottom of this issue. I hope that all goes well!

Why is my Cushing's dog losing weight, picky eating, and shivering?

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