What are the common symptoms of Addison's disease in dogs and cats?

Common signs include lethargy, reduced activity, decreased appetite, weight loss, and intermittent vomiting or diarrhoea. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your vet and arrange an examination.

How does a vet diagnose adrenal insufficiency?

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests revealing electrolyte abnormalities and changes in kidney function, confirmed by specialised hormone function testing, with imaging used as needed.

Does treatment require long-term monitoring?

Yes, most pets need a long-term medication plan with regular blood tests to monitor electrolytes and kidney function; the vet will adjust treatment and follow-up frequency based on test results.

What should I do if I suspect my pet is having an acute crisis?

If you notice severe weakness, collapse, or obvious signs of dehydration, take your pet to the nearest emergency clinic as soon as possible and inform the vet of any prior concerns about endocrine disease.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Addison's Disease in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care Guide [2025]

Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) causes a deficiency of adrenal hormones that can trigger electrolyte crises. Acute episodes can be life-threatening and require emergency fluid therapy. Once diagnosed, lifelong medication is needed, but the prognosis is good.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Immediate Veterinary Care (Emergency)

•Persistent vomiting or diarrhea with severe weakness
•Sudden obvious collapse or brief loss of consciousness
•Visible signs of significant dehydration, pale gums, or an abnormal heartbeat

Schedule a Veterinary Visit Soon (Within 24-72 Hours)

•Ongoing lethargy or decreased activity
•Repeated vomiting or diarrhea while still able to eat and drink
•Gradual weight loss or a marked decrease in appetite

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Addison's disease often presents with non-specific symptoms that are easy to overlook early on; if symptoms continue to worsen, they may lead to serious electrolyte and circulatory problems.

Persistent lethargy and reduced activity levels
Recurring weakness or fatigue, with decreased exercise tolerance
Decreased appetite or fussiness about food, with gradual weight loss
Intermittent vomiting or diarrhoea, often with recurring gastrointestinal discomfort
Changes in water intake or urination volume, possibly accompanied by weight fluctuations

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea accompanied by severe weakness
⚠️ Sudden obvious collapse or brief loss of consciousness
⚠️ Visible signs of dehydration, pale gums, or abnormal heart rate

02How should you assess abnormalities at home? Key observations and criteria for emergency visits

Observing and recording key changes at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and arrange appropriate tests.

Record changes in alertness and activity level daily
Weigh your pet regularly and note the date of each measurement
Log the frequency, timing, contents, and presence of blood in any vomiting episodes
Observe and record changes in stool consistency and frequency
Note any increases or decreases in water intake and drinking times
Bring your observation notes or videos to the consultation, or call the clinic in advance

03How will the vet diagnose? Common examination items

The vet will primarily use physical examination and laboratory tests, with specialist endocrine testing and imaging evaluation arranged as needed.

Physical examination

palpation, cardiopulmonary auscultation, and assessment of mucous membrane colour

Blood tests

electrolytes (sodium, potassium) and kidney function panels

Specialised hormone testing

endocrine function tests requiring specialist equipment

Urinalysis

assessing urine concentrating ability and kidney status

Abdominal ultrasound or X-rays, with advanced imaging arranged if necessary

04How should treatment and care proceed after diagnosis? Medication, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment typically involves long-term medication and regular monitoring; acute episodes may require hospitalisation with supportive care and fluid therapy to correct electrolyte imbalances.

Your vet will develop a long-term medication plan and follow-up schedule
Severely affected pets may require hospitalisation with fluid therapy and supportive care
Regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte and kidney function changes
Medication doses and follow-up frequency adjusted based on test results
Recommended to arrange follow-up at a specialist hospital with endocrine testing capabilities

05What to prepare before seeing the vet? Key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Record when symptoms started and how they have progressed (including frequency)

List all current medications, supplements, or any recent dietary changes

If available, bring videos of vomiting, changes in activity, or abnormal stools

Prepare recent weight records and notes on food and water intake

Bring previous examination reports or blood test results if available

Consider calling a specialist hospital in advance to book an endocrine evaluation

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.