Bloodwork came back with some liver function out of range and the urine's specific gravity was not right. Discussed with vet and we agreed that the liver function might be a result of periodontal disease so we agreed to have her teeth cleaned (as always they never know if there is the need for extraction until they are there working in the mouth) and then re-run the test.
We talked a little more about the slight increase in thirst & urination and behavioral problems. He tossed out the idea that the the two out of range tests might indicate the beginnings of Cushings disease.
So off, to the internet I go and interestingly enough I discover that the drug Anapryl, is used for both Cushings and Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Now, since one form of cushings involves the pituitary gland (in the brain) isn't it possible that the behavior is a result of undiagnosed Cushings?
She has no hair loss, no bloated belly, and no changes in skin, but I wonder if the constant barking at DH for food might be a sign of increased appetite and not just Loki makin' a Loki fuss because she got switched over to lower calorie senior food.
I told vet we were charting the behavioral issues to see if there were any event triggers for the night wakening and so far, there is no pattern, BUT I noticed the last time it happened, the day before there was not such a bright, cognizant spark in her eyes.
The night waking is just like if you gave a toddler a half cup of coffee before bed: s/he would sleep for a couple of hours and then wake up ready for fun, but unable to find anything to focus on. Hmm.
so, any ideas, input? Thanks on advance. A diagnosis of Cushings makes the lifespan 20-30 months, but for all we know she might be 12 already, so that's not so devastaing to me. I'm happy to treat any disease process, but the behavioral thing might just break our marriage!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have no suggestions but maybe you'll get some answers with the repeat blood work. Just wanted to let you know I'll be thinking about you guys. Let us know how things are going.
When Eddie was diagnosed with CCD the vet asked if he slept all day and since I work from home I could watch him and he was sleeping most of the day then up all or most of the night, which really didn't bother me as much as the fact I was worried he would hurt himself during that time. The crate was not the answer for him because he would bang himself into the bars and scare me more. I have read up on the Anapryl also and from my research it sounds like a good thing.
From a lab persons point of view...............I'd get the tests repeated before going down that road as 1 result is a snapshot of time and elimates some. I know they cost and the results may be the same, if it were for myself that is what I would do.
What about keeping her up for the evening and playing games, we used to do that with the pups so they would be tired, or leave dinner till then as they ususally sleep after a meal.
Roberta
Wow, I don't have any helpful suggestions, sorry! I will definately be praying that the liver function levels were off because of the teeth. :pray: We're thinking of you and Loki.
You and Loki will be in my thought, crossing fingers for him..
I too am hoping and praying that the liver function results were off because of her teeth...comforting hugs and prayers to Loki and family..... :pray: :comfort: :pray: :comfort: Please let us know something asap!
It will be interesting to hear the results. I have no advice.
ya know, when I look at the symptom list, the eternally hungry Loki is more hungry than EVAH. I think this fits. Also one of the symptoms is calcinosis epidermis--a skin thing. She has a few warty lookin' things on her snoot and legs. Wish I could bump the dental up, but have no time to do so.