Types

• There are three main types of adrenal gland disorders in cats: Addison's disease, Cushing's disease and Conn's syndrome.
  
  

Symptoms

• The symptoms of adrenal gland disorders may include excessive thirst and urination, weakness, lethargy and depression. Cushing's may present as diabetes mellitus, and Addison's disease often causes vomiting and kidney dysfunction. Symptoms of Conn's syndrome include low potassium levels, high blood pressure and extreme muscle weakness.
  
  

Causes

• Tumors of the pituitary or adrenal glands usually cause adrenal gland disorders in cats. Addison's disease may also be caused by an autoimmune disorder, abrupt discontinuation of steroid medication or infection.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment of adrenal disease depends on the type of disorder and severity of illness. Surgery is often used to treat Cushing's disease and Conn's syndrome, while hormone-replacement therapy is the primary treatment for Addison's disease.
  
  

Warning

• Untreated adrenal gland disorders in cats can be fatal, and a veterinarian should see any cat with symptoms of adrenal disease as soon as possible.