Diagnosis and treatment
The ACTH test is the simplest and most common test for Equine Cushing’s disease. A vet will take a blood sample from your horse, if appropriate, and send it to a laboratory to measure the levels of the hormone ACTH. High levels will indicate that your horse has Equine Cushing’s disease. Once a horse has been diagnosed with Equine Cushing’s disease there are many management strategies that can be implemented to ensure that he remains happy and healthy.
MEDICAL TREATMENT
If appropriate, your vet may prescribe life-long medication to treat the clinical signs associated with Equine Cushing’s disease.
NUTRITION
Correct nutritional support can help a horse or pony cope better with the consequences of Equine Cushing’s disease, such as muscle wastage. In most cases lifelong medication is needed to alleviate the symptoms of Equine Cushing’s disease. Some horses with the disease may also show clinical signs, such as weight loss, obesity, or a predisposition to laminitis, which means they will require an individual nutrition plan.
PREVENTATIVE CARE
In addition to Equine Cushing’s disease, there are a wide range of common diseases that horses and ponies are at risk of developing as they get older, such as dental and musculoskeletal disorders. Preventative healthcare is important for all older horses, but especially for those with Equine Cushing’s disease, so always ensure you pay special attention to hoof care, dental care, vaccination, wormer administration and nutrition.
EXERCISE
Many horses with Equine Cushing’s disease are able to continue their athletic careers, and exercise is always helpful for their metabolism. If your horse is sound, then keep up his regular exercise. If he is less athletic but sound then you can try to ride, long-rein, or lead him out at a brisk walk regularly. If you are unsure whether it is suitable to exercise your horse then seek advice from your vet.
“In most cases lifelong medication is needed to alleviate the clinical signs of Equine Cushing’s disease”