Is your pet shedding way too much? Maybe you’ve noticed an increase in appetite? What if they’ve got a LOSS of appetite and seem depressed? Do they just seem generally stressed out?
Read on to see how these sometimes opposing symptoms could be signs of disorder from a small, but mighty organ that many don’t know much about… yet.
Returning from an amazing pet health conference last month, we’re sharing a topic discussed by Dr. Kären and Dr. Steve Marsden that might explain the reason for symptoms that your pet may be experiencing, their adrenal glands. Perched just above the kidneys, the adrenal glands may be tiny, but they do big work behind the scenes to keep your pet functioning their best. Here’s a quick run-down on what they are, what they do, what symptoms they can cause, and what YOU can do for your pet.
In both people and pets, the adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system (hormone-producing system) and are the third step in the stress response pathway. Don’t be fooled though, they’re responsible for a lot more than that!
Your pet’s adrenal glands also produce vital hormones that help regulate:
Blood pressure
Blood sugar
Electrolytes
Digestion and hydration
Energy and metabolism
Reproduction
Stress and fight-or-flight responses
Dogs with Cushing’s disease usually have a tumor (pituitary or adrenal) or prolonged steroid use, that causes hormone overproduction.
Dogs with Addison’s disease often have autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands.
Unfortunately adrenal tissue has low regenerative capacity, meaning it is very difficult to heal once damaged.
If your vet suspects an adrenal disorder, they may run blood tests to check hormone levels, urine tests to assess kidney function and hormone activity or ultrasounds/imaging to visualize the adrenal glands.
Treatment depends on the specific issue, and often requires prolonged veterinary care. For example:
Cushing’s is typically managed with lifelong daily medication and routine monitoring. Surgical removal of the adrenal gland is often recommended when an adrenal tumor is localized and operable. At times, tumors can grow on the pituitary glands, but surgical removal of pituitary tumors is complex and rarely done on pets. Radiation therapy is occasionally used, especially when neurological symptoms are present.
Addison’s requires hormone replacement therapy, often for life. The type depends on what hormones are needed and are typically administered daily as a pill, or as a monthly injection.
Although conventional veterinary treatment is essential, natural therapies and lifestyle may significantly help support adrenal health. While Addison’s and Cushing’s may not be preventable through diet alone, there are nutritional strategies that:
Help maintain adrenal and immune health
Reduce reliance on pharmaceuticals in borderline cases
Support overall endocrine balance
Helpful natural supports may include:
First and foremost, enjoy a wholesome, low-stress lifestyle – Reducing environmental stress, ensuring quality sleep, feeding a clean & balanced diet, and offering plenty of affection and enrichment all support adrenal health naturally by not inducing overproduction of these hormones.
Reduce the toxic effects of today’s modern lifestyle. Our environments may be overwhelming our detox and immune systems, in both people and pets. This has been linked to rising cases of cancers, thyroid and adrenal diseases, obesity and diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. Dogs and cats are:
Exposed to the same environmental toxins as humans (e.g. BPA, pesticides, air pollution - especially chemicals right in your home and yard)
Often fed cheap, processed food and treats (the “junk food” of the pet world)
Regularly exposed to chronic low-grade stress (changes in household, vet visits, isolation, etc.)
Acupuncture and herbal blends are sometimes used to balance adrenal energy; herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil help the body manage stress and may gently support adrenal function. Licorice root is often used in cases of low cortisol to help extend the life of circulating cortisol, (not recommended for pets with high blood pressure or Cushing’s). Catnip can help both cats AND DOGS reduce anxiety and stress. Meowijuana is a great brand that we carry at both our stores!
Omega-3 fatty acids – Found in fish oil, these support overall endocrine and immune health. We recommend Ultra Oil to our customers.
Reishi mushroom – Known for immune and adrenal balancing effects, check out Real Mushrooms at both our stores!
CBD is great for stress reduction, reducing inflammation and promoting sleep. We carry both Austin & Kats and One Farm/Ziggy Marley’s Apothecary.
At the conference, we learned of some exciting new supplements coming available and plan to introduce those, along with a protocol for both of our stores. If this topic interests you, make sure to stop by and ask one of our friendly associates for more information!
Dr. Judy Morgan hosted the conference, The International Naturally Healthy Pets Experience. If anyone is interested in taking any of Dr. Judy’s courses themselves, you can use this code to save 25%.
www.drjudyu.com Use EXPERIENCE25 at checkout.
