Addison's disease
Also known as: Hypoadrenocorticism
Quick answer
Insufficient production of adrenal hormones, most often in young to middle-aged dogs. An Addisonian crisis causes collapse and is life-threatening. Emergency if your dog collapses or is severely weak.
Definition
Insufficient production of adrenal hormones, most often in young to middle-aged dogs. An Addisonian crisis causes collapse and is life-threatening.
Symptoms
- Lethargy and weakness
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Shaking or tremors
- Collapse during stress (crisis)
When to see a vet
Emergency if your dog collapses or is severely weak. Otherwise book promptly for recurring vague illness — blood tests diagnose Addison's.
Related guides & tools
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Addison's disease?
- Insufficient production of adrenal hormones, most often in young to middle-aged dogs. An Addisonian crisis causes collapse and is life-threatening.
- What are the symptoms of addison's disease?
- Common signs include Lethargy and weakness, Vomiting and diarrhoea, Reduced appetite, Shaking or tremors. This is not a complete list — individual pets vary. See linked guides for fuller context.
- When should I see a vet about addison's disease?
- Emergency if your dog collapses or is severely weak. Otherwise book promptly for recurring vague illness — blood tests diagnose Addison's.