Cushing's
Cushing's, or formally termed Hyperadrenocorticism, is a hormone imbalance in which the body produces excessive amounts of cortisol (the body's own steroid) as well as other regulatory hormones. It can affect all types of animals and in fact was named by Dr. Cushing whom was the first one to recognize the disease in humans. The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, is the zealous organ which is responsible for the overproduced hormone. Horses and more often Ponies are affected in their later years with the average age of disease onset being 19 (range 10-35). Although five hormones are significantly overproduced with Cushing's disease, the myriad of clinical signs are most often associated with the over production of cortisol. You may have noticed your horse having:
- Abnormal or unseasonably long and wavy hair coat
- Increased thirst and urination
- Increased sweating
- Weight loss or unusual distribution of weight (pot-belly, cresty neck)
- Chronic laminitis
- Lethargy
- Chronic infections from suppression of the immune system
Diagnosis of Cushing's
There are a number of tests used to diagnose Cushings in equids and all are based on measuring the concentration of one or more of the overproduced hormones. Here at Peninsula Equine, we prefer the Dexamethasone suppression test that basically tests the ability of the Cushingoid horse to regulate its own cortisol level. It is a very painless and non-invasive test requiring only a couple needle pokes.
Treatment from the Vet
There are a number of treatments available for Cushing's disease, but the principles behind each treatment is very similar - decrease the production of cortisol. We use a drug named Pergolide.
Long term outcome and how can you help
With appropriate life long treatment and management the Cushingoid pony or horse can lead a relatively normal life. Nonetheless there are a few key points to remember:
- Keep the feet trimmed and monitor them for any signs of laminitis.
- Avoid stress: Provide a safe, comfortable, quiet haven for the horse; avoid turnout with aggressive horses.
- Keeping feed and water conveniently located.
- Clipping the horse in warm weather and using rugs when cold.
- Keep the horse well groomed to minimize skin disease.
- Vaccinate and worm regularly.
- Check dental health.
- Provide a high quality, easily digestible diet.