When it comes to our pets, nailing down a diagnosis can sometimes be difficult. When signs are vague or tend to wax and wane, pet parents and veterinarians may have their work cut out for them.

 A case in point is Addison’s disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism [high-poe-adree-noh-COURT-ah-sizz-um]. This condition — which is more common in dogs than cats — involves decreased production of key hormones by the adrenal glands. Common signs of canine Addison’s disease — like vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite — often involve the digestive tract and may come and go.

These signs are also the same as those caused by other conditions, so veterinarians need to perform blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. The good news is that with consistent treatment, dogs with Addison’s disease can live a good life.