Site Accessibility Features: Skip to page menus

Reset Website Accessibility

Site Menus:Skip to page content

Veterinarians Mountain Top | Mountaintop Animal Hospital

Contact Us

Phone Number: 570-474-5273 Fax Number: 570-474-0746

Like & Follow Us

Site Content: Skip to page footer

Endocrinology (Hormones)

Identifying endocrine problems as early as possible is important in dogs and cats. These serious, potentially life-threatening conditions are much more manageable when caught early, allowing us to begin proper treatment.

The endocrine system is made up of a group of tissues (mostly glands) that release hormones into the bloodstream. These hormones regulate metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction and are dispersed to different areas of the body, depending on the hormone’s function. When a hormonal balance is disturbed (by a tumor or autoimmune disease, for instance), an endocrine disorder can develop. “Hyper” refers to an excess of hormone, and “hypo” refers to a deficiency in a hormone. Treatment varies depending on the disease.

There are several common endocrine disorders found in dogs and cats:

Diabetes mellitus is caused by a deficiency in or resistance to the hormone insulin.
Hypothyroidism, which is often diagnosed in dogs, indicates that the animal has low levels of thyroid hormone.
Hyperthyroidism, which frequently affects cats, indicates that the animal has high levels of thyroid hormones.
Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) and Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) can also affect both species, although Cushing’s disease is rare in cats.

Contact us if your pet begins panting excessively, develops any skin issues (such as hair loss or dull coat), or shows any changes in behavior, energy levels, appetite, weight, water consumption, or urination.

Site Sidebar: Skip to end of sidebar

In the News

From Barn to Breakfast: How Veterinarians Keep our Food Safe
June 5, 2025
Veterinarians are often seen as animal doctors, but did you know that they are vital…

Our Team

Our veterinarians are dedicated to providing the best possible healthcare by getting to know you and your pet.

Meet Our Team

Pet Health Services Use our Pet Health Checker tool to help you decide if your pet's symptoms require immediate attention or if you should continue to monitor those symptoms at home.

View Our Services!

Pet Health Checker Use our Pet Health Checker tool to help you decide if your pet's symptoms require immediate attention or you need to monitor those symptoms at home.

Use Our Tool

Pet Health Library We share the same goal – ensuring your animal companion is healthy and happy, which is the most important! Check out our library to find out more!

View Our Library!

Site Footer: Skip to top of page

RSS
Facebook