Maine-based IDEXX Laboratories has introduced a new diagnostic tool designed to help veterinary teams measure a dog’s cortisol levels directly in the clinic. The Catalyst Cortisol Test can be used during a patient’s appointment to provide a quick and accurate reading of this key hormone—a step forward in identifying disorders that affect a pet’s health.

Cortisol plays an important role in a dog’s ability to respond to stress and regulate numerous body functions. When the body produces either too much or too little of it, health problems can arise. Addison’s disease, for example, occurs when the adrenal glands are under-active and do not produce enough of the hormone. Cushing’s syndrome is the opposite — it develops when the body produces excess amounts of the stress-related compound.

Both disorders can manifest through a range of symptoms — weakness, lethargy, poor appetite, vomiting, or drinking more fluids — which can be hard to distinguish from other health issues. If left untreated, these conditions may affect a dog’s well-being and, in some cases, become life threatening. That’s why a tool that can quickly measure a patient’s current level of cortisol during a veterinary visit can be valuable for making a more accurate diagnosis and guiding treatment decisions.

The new test integrates directly with IDEXX’s existing laboratory platforms, adding interpretive guidance to aid in identifying abnormalities on the spot. It can be run alongside other diagnostic tests from a single sample, streamlining workflow and reducing the amount of sample preparation required by veterinary teams.

The Catalyst Cortisol Test is expected to become available in the USA and Canada by late July 2025, with a rollout to other locations starting in the third quarter of 2025. It aims to help practitioners respond more quickly and accurately to disorders affecting their canine patients.