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Cushings Disease in Dogs

What to Expect with Trilostane Therapy

Trilostane helps manage the signs of Cushing’s disease (excessive thirst, urination, panting, hunger, or pot-bellied appearance).

Treatment requires regular monitoring to keep your pet safe and the disease well controlled.

Monitoring Plan

  • 10–14 days after starting trilostane: Blood test to check cortisol.

  • If the dose is stable → 1 month later: Second blood test.

  • Every 3–6 months thereafter: Ongoing blood tests.

  • After any dose change: Cortisol blood test about 2 weeks later.

What Owners Should Watch For

Undertreatment signs: increased thirst/urination, panting, hunger, pot-bellied appearance, thinning hair/skin issues.

Overtreatment signs: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, decreased drinking/urination, trembling.

Emergency: If your dog refuses food, has repeated vomiting, collapses, or shows sudden severe weakness → seek veterinary care immediately.

Important Notes

  • The same type of cortisol test will be used each time (either pre-pill cortisol or post-pill ACTH stimulation test) for consistency.

  • Always give trilostane at the same time each day.

  • Let us know if you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or energy.

Direct from your Vet

Katie Taylor, MA, CVPM

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