what is addison's disease dogs
Addisonâs disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is caused by a lower than normal production of hormones, such as cortisol, by the adrenal glands. The adrenals are small glands that are located near the kidneys. Adrenal hormones are necessary to control salt, sugar and water balance in the body. Addisonâs disease occurs less commonly than the opposite condition, Cushingâs disease (overproduction of cortisol) in dogs, and is rare in cats. Addisonâs disease occurs most commonly in young to middle-aged female dogs. The average age is about 4 years old.