When Vomiting Isn’t Just a Stomach Upset

Vomiting and loss of appetite are common reasons dogs visit the vet. In many cases, the cause is simple and resolves quickly.

However, these vague symptoms can sometimes indicate a more complex condition.

Recently, our team diagnosed two dogs with Addison’s disease, a hormonal disorder that is often difficult to detect because it mimics other illnesses. Although Violet and Patches presented differently, both cases underscore the importance of thorough investigation and follow-up testing.

Violet, a 5-year-old French Bulldog, was brought in after her owner noticed she had been unusually picky with her food for about a week, along with intermittent vomiting over several days.

During her examination:

• She appeared quieter than usual.
• Her hydration was slightly reduced.

Initial blood tests showed elevated potassium and an abnormal sodium-to-potassium ratio, raising suspicion for Addison’s disease.

An ACTH stimulation test was performed to confirm the diagnosis. This specialised test measures the adrenal glands’ response to stimulation and determines if Addison’s disease is present.

She received:

• Intravenous fluids.
• Steroid therapy.
• Medication to stabilise her electrolytes.

Violet responded well to treatment and was transferred to an emergency centre overnight for ongoing monitoring.

Violet was initially managed with:

• Florinef medication.
• Daily prednisolone.

She later transitioned to monthly Zycortal injections, which replace the hormones needed to maintain electrolyte balance.

With ongoing monitoring and medication adjustments, Violet has remained stable and continues to do well on low-dose Zycortal monthly injections.

Patches, a 10-year-old Mini Fox Terrier and Mini Poodle cross, first visited the clinic after several days of vomiting.

At that time:

• Her physical exam was normal.
• Blood tests were also normal.

Two weeks later, she returned with ongoing vomiting, lethargy, and reduced appetite.

• Repeat blood tests at an emergency clinic revealed:
• Elevated potassium levels.
• An abnormal sodium-to-potassium ratio.

These changes raised concern for Addison’s disease, and an ACTH stimulation test confirmed the diagnosis.

Because Patches remained relatively stable, she did not require hospitalisation.

She began treatment with:

• Zycortal injections.
• Oral prednisolone.

Once therapy began, Patches quickly returned to her normal self and has responded very well to the low-dose Zycortal protocol routinely used at CCVH to manage dogs diagnosed with Addison’s disease.