Cushing’s disease

As our horses enjoy longer lives and many live well into old age, the number of horses with Cushing’s is increasing as it is more common in older horses, especially ponies. However, it can affect all races and ages.

Cushing’s is caused by an abnormality of the pituitary gland which is located at the base of the brain. This causes you to produce an excessive amount of a hormone called cortisone, which is the body’s natural steroid hormone.

Cushing’s signs

Long, thick and curly fur that does not shred.

Their winter fur may grow very early or may tear prematurely, as swelling on the glans penis puts pressure on the part of the brain responsible for seasonal hair loss.

An increased risk of laminitis

Excessive drinking and urination

increase appetite

elevated heart rate

muscle loss

In mares their cycle can be abnormal

The mare may not be able to conceive

Lethargy

weightloss

Over a period of time, an affected horse will display some or all of the above listed signs.

Treatment

A substance called dopamine is naturally produced within the brain that prevents the excessive production of hormones. There is another natural substance called Serotorum that has the opposite effect and produces a lot of cortisone.

Treatment will consist of using a drug that mimics dopamine, the most widely used being pergolide, which is given in tablet form, or the use of a drug, one of the most promising, trilostane, which will block serotorum.

Your vet will decide which cause of treatment will be most suitable for your horse or pony. Both types of treatment will produce the same results, while keeping the amount of cortisone produced under control.

Management

The increase in cortisone in the body is similar to the effect of stress, so in order to control the condition, we must reduce stress levels as much as possible.

Maintain a strict routine

Ensure a comfortable and quiet shelter for the horse.

Avoid dating aggressive horses

Keep feed and water easily located

Clip out and carpet in winter

Groom well to help minimize skin conditions.

Keep helmets in good condition

Check for signs of laminitis.

Minimize contact with new horses

vaccinate regularly

Get regular checkups with the dentist

Feed only high-quality, easily digestible foods.

Treatment and management will be lifelong as there is no cure for the condition. I know from my own experience that I had an old pony named Ringo who suffered with Cushing for many years, but still lives to the great age of 35, that horses can live a comfortable life for many years.

The most serious complication is laminitis and must be treated carefully.

All the best

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