How does growth hormone excess affect my pet?

Growth hormone excess commonly causes increased thirst, urination, and appetite, along with changes in energy levels. It may also cause gradual changes in body shape or appearance. If a concurrent metabolic condition is involved, long-term monitoring and management are needed — ask your vet for guidance.

What tests will the vet perform to assess the condition?

The vet will typically start with a physical exam, blood tests, and urinalysis. Endocrine testing and imaging (ultrasound, CT/MRI) may be arranged as needed. The specific tests will be determined by the veterinarian.

If my pet is drinking and urinating excessively, how do I prepare for the vet visit?

It helps to record daily water intake and urination, take relevant videos or photos, bring a list of current medications, and carry any previous test reports. Consider calling ahead to book a clinic that can perform endocrine testing.

How often does my pet need follow-up after treatment?

Follow-up frequency depends on treatment progress and test results. Initially, recheck appointments are typically every few weeks to months to monitor blood work and imaging. Long-term regular follow-ups are needed, adjusted according to your vet's instructions.

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

Acromegaly (Growth Hormone Excess) in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Endocrine Tests & Long-Term Management [2025]

Feline acromegaly is caused by excess growth hormone secreted by a pituitary tumor. It is commonly associated with diabetes mellitus that is difficult to regulate. Radiation therapy is the most effective treatment.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap editorial team

Sources: ISFM, ACVIM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Immediate veterinary care needed (emergency)

•Persistent inability to stand or any change in consciousness
•Ongoing severe vomiting with marked weakness or lethargy
•Drinking large amounts of water and urinating frequently over a short period

Schedule a veterinary visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Noticeably increased drinking and urination for several consecutive days
•Increased appetite but no clear weight gain
•Reduced activity with persistent sluggishness or lethargy

01What symptoms signal a problem?

Growth hormone excess in dogs and cats typically presents as increased thirst, increased urination, and metabolic changes, and may be accompanied by behavioral or physical appearance changes.

Frequent urination with noticeably increased urine volume
Significantly increased drinking frequency and water intake
Increased appetite with variable weight changes
Lethargy or changes in energy and activity level
Gradual changes in appearance or body shape (such as widening of the head, neck, or limbs)

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key observations and when to seek urgent care

Simple home records help your vet track changes and determine treatment needs.

Record the number of urination episodes and approximate urine volume each day
Estimate and note daily water intake or the drop in the water bowl level
Take videos or photos of drinking or urination episodes to bring to the appointment
Observe and record changes in energy, activity level, and appetite
Note elimination habits, urine color, or any difficulty urinating
If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule a vet appointment promptly

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will begin with a physical exam, blood work, and urinalysis, then arrange endocrine or specialist testing and imaging as needed.

Physical examination

overall body condition and appearance assessment

Blood tests

complete blood count and biochemistry panel (liver and kidney function)

Urinalysis

including urine glucose, urine specific gravity, and sediment examination

Endocrine testing or specialist serum markers to evaluate hormone status

Imaging (abdominal ultrasound, head CT/MRI) for further evaluation

Referral to an endocrinology specialist or tertiary care hospital when indicated

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medications, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment focuses on symptom management and control of concurrent conditions, requiring long-term monitoring and adjustments based on test results.

Follow your vet's recommended medical or other interventional therapy, with regular recheck appointments
Dietary adjustments to help manage metabolic changes and weight
Schedule regular blood and imaging follow-ups to monitor treatment response
Provide a stable water source and comfortable resting environment at home
Assess prognosis based on test results and adjust the treatment plan accordingly
If surgery or specialist intervention is needed, referral to a tertiary specialty hospital is recommended

05What should you prepare before the appointment? Key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Record when symptoms started, how they have changed, and how long they have lasted

Write down estimated daily water intake and urination amount or trends

List food types, quantities, and any changes in appetite

Bring a list of current medications or supplements

Take videos or photos of body condition, drinking, or urination for the vet's reference

Bring previous diagnostic reports or imaging results (if available)

Consider calling ahead to book an appointment at a clinic that can perform endocrine testing or provide specialist referrals

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.

Related Symptoms (You May Also Be Looking For)

Frequent urination

Excessive thirst

Excessive hunger

Excessive urination