Diagnosis and treatment of juvenile endocrine disorders in puppies and kittens.

Endocrine and metabolic disorders affecting puppies and kittens from birth until 6 months of age may manifest as clinical problems related to growth, water metabolism (polydipsia or polyuria), or as episodic weakness. Endocrine and metabolic disorders that affect stature, such as pituitary or hypothyroid dwarfism, present to the veterinarian for assessment of delayed or aberrant growth. Conversely, juvenile-onset diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus cause excessive thirst, urination, and difficulty in house-breaking.