A leading vet is cautioning dog owners that greater water intake during warmer months may point to a serious underlying condition rather than simple thirst from the heat.
Dr Emma Chandley, working with pet insurance brand Petgevity, reports that she frequently encounters cases where increased drinking is later diagnosed as Cushing’s disease. Claims related to this thirst-linked health issue rose by a staggering 304% in just one year, according to Petgevity. Dog owners do not always spot it until it is too late.
What causes Cushing’s disease
Chandley explains: “Cushing’s disease is caused by excessive levels of the hormone cortisol in the body. In most dogs, this is due to a problem with the pituitary gland, which leads the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol. Less commonly, an adrenal gland tumour may be responsible.”
Cortisol plays an important role in metabolism, the stress response, and immune function, but chronically high levels can make dogs unwell. “One of the common signs is excessive thirst and increased urination. During hot weather, it can be tempting to put increased drinking down to the temperature, but persistent or marked thirst should not be ignored, particularly if it occurs alongside other signs of Cushing’s disease. It’s important to speak to your vet if you notice a change in your dog’s drinking or urination, particularly if other symptoms are present.”
The 5 P’s to watch for
The vet outlines the five P’s symptoms of Cushing’s disease
- Polydipsia (increased drinking). “You’ll likely find the water bowl is emptied more often, or that your dog is drinking from odd places. This is due to the increased levels of cortisol interfering with the body’s ability to hold onto water.”
- Polyuria (increased urination). “You’ll also find your dog is urinating larger volumes, taking more frequent trips outside, or even having accidents indoors, due to the increased drinking.”
- Polyphagia (increased appetite). “Where cortisol increases appetite, dogs can seem constantly hungry and beg or scavenge for food more than they previously would have.”
- Panting. “Dogs with Cushing’s often pant excessively, even when they haven’t been exercising or are not exposed to hot weather.”
- Pot-bellied abdomen. “The abdomen muscles weaken and the liver enlarges, giving the tummy a noticeably more rounded, pot-bellied look.”
Senior dogs most at risk
Older dogs are particularly at risk of Cushing’s, Dr Chandley warns, with it commonly diagnosed in dogs aged 7–12 years. Around 80%–85% of naturally occurring cases are caused by a pituitary tumour. Although specialised centres can surgically remove some pituitary tumours, most affected dogs are managed with lifelong medication rather than surgery.
Dr Chandley explains: “Cushing’s tends to develop gradually, so we mostly see this condition in senior dogs. As the average lifespan of dogs is longer now, I find I am diagnosing this condition more often.”
With research revealing that nearly half (49%) of dogs in the UK are considered to be of senior age now, there is a risk that Cushing’s can lie undetected, as it can also be misinterpreted as signs of ageing.
“Without being managed, the condition can weaken the immune system, increase risks of diabetes and high blood pressure, and potentially lead to recurring infections and blood clots, all of which can be life-threatening if not treated in time,” Dr Chandley warns. “This is why seeking veterinary advice early can make a fundamental difference in your dog’s longevity and wellbeing. However, don’t feel guilty if you didn’t spot it sooner, as it’s so easily missed.”
The expert says that although it is prevalent in senior dogs, any dog can develop it: “Some breeds such as Border Terriers, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, and Beagles are more genetically prone to it.”
Petgevity data shows the average claim for Cushing’s is £507. Because it is a lifelong condition requiring ongoing medication, the total cost, factoring in other age-related illnesses, can potentially run into the thousands if an owner is not insured.
Reassuringly, Dr Chandley says that Cushing’s can be effectively managed from diagnosis: “It usually starts with blood and urine tests, followed by more specific hormone testing. Once it’s been confirmed, most dogs go on daily medication to bring cortisol levels back down and return to the vet for regular check-ups to ensure the treatment is working for the dog.”
“Once the balance is right, the good news is that many dogs can continue to enjoy a good quality of life for years.”
Owners noticing persistent changes in their dog’s drinking habits alongside other symptoms are advised to consult a veterinarian promptly for assessment.