Cushing's (Aka. “Hyperadrenocorticism”)
Cushing’s can be a life-long condition (depending on the underlying cause) and managing it can feel overwhelming for many pet owners. Daily medications, ongoing skin problems, and recurring infections are just some of the challenges that can make caring for a pet with Cushing’s feel emotionally demanding.
At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support both you and your pet, guiding you every step of the way. Through gentle, whole-body therapies, we aim to support hormonal balance, ease clinical signs, and improve overall quality of life.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What is Cushing’s?
Cushing’s disease is a condition in which the body produces too much cortisol over a prolonged period. Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands and plays an important role in regulating metabolism, immune function, stress responses, and inflammation.
In healthy pets, cortisol levels rise and fall as needed. In pets with Cushing’s disease, cortisol is produced continuously or in excessive amounts. Over time, prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels can affect the skin, muscles, immune system, liver, metabolism, and overall vitality.
This condition may be mistaken for normal ageing because these changes often develop gradually. This makes careful veterinary investigation particularly important.
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting pets with Cushing’s. With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with Cushing’s in the following ways:
- Support more balanced hormone function
- Reduce excessive thirst, urination, and appetite
- Help manage inflammation
- Address skin and coat issues
- Help manage side-effects from long-term medications
- Encourage energy levels and overall vitality
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to ease clinical signs, enhance quality of life, and support healthy adrenal function in conjunction with your pet’s conventional treatment plan.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods, which can contribute to inflammation.
Every pet is unique, and our goal is to tailor dietary recommendations to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis, stage of disease, and overall constitution. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of Cushing’s
Cushing’s often develops slowly and can go unnoticed for a while. Signs to watch for include:
Excessive thirst and urination
Increased appetite
Muscle wasting
Pot-bellied appearance
Thinning skin or hair loss
Lethargy or lower energy
Recurring infections
It’s important to know that diabetes can have similar signs, and Cushing’s can sometimes lead to diabetes. Your conventional vet will often test for diabetes early in the Cushing’s work-up.
How is Cushing’s typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Cushing’s is typically a long-term condition that is managed rather than cured Regular monitoring is often needed to make sure the treatment is working and your pet stays comfortable.
Conventional treatment often relies on medications that reduce cortisol production (e.g. Trilostane). Surgery or radiotherapy can be considered in some cases, such as pituitary tumours. With appropriate management, many pets can continue to live long and happy lives with Cushing’s.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
