Cushing’s Disease, also known as Equine Cushing’s Syndrome, is one of the most common endocrine diseases in horses, and can cause a range of symptoms that can affect the horse’s overall health. In order to properly diagnose and treat Cushing’s Disease, it’s important to be aware of the signs of the disease and know how to diagnose it. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of Cushing’s Disease in horses, as well as the methods used to diagnose it. Read on to learn more and ensure your horse is in the best of health.
What Are the Signs of Cushing’s Disease in Horses?
Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a disorder caused by the overproduction of cortisol in the body, resulting in a variety of symptoms, some of which can be quite severe. In horses, the most common signs of Cushing’s disease are:
Increased Appetite
Horses with Cushing’s disease often have an increased appetite, and will often be seen grazing more than usual. They may also become more aggressive in their grazing, and may even eat things that they normally would not, such as wood or other objects.
Hair Loss
Horses with Cushing’s disease often suffer from hair loss. This can range from patches of thinning hair to complete baldness.
Increased Drinking and Urination
Horses with Cushing’s disease often drink and urinate more than normal. This can be especially noticeable during hot weather, as the horse may drink more than usual to cool off.
Lethargy and Weakness
Horses with Cushing’s disease may appear lethargic and weak. They may also have difficulty performing tasks that they normally could do without any problems.
Muscle Loss
Horses with Cushing’s disease may experience muscle loss, which can lead to reduced exercise tolerance and decreased performance.
Sweating
Horses with Cushing’s disease may sweat more than normal, even when not exercising.
Recurring Infections
Horses with Cushing’s disease often suffer from recurring infections of the skin, hooves, and respiratory system. These infections can be difficult to treat, as the horse’s weakened immune system makes them more susceptible to infection.
Abnormal Gait
Horses with Cushing’s disease may experience an abnormal gait, which can include a shuffling gait or a reluctance to move.
Abnormal Fat Distribution
Horses with Cushing’s disease often have abnormal fat distribution, which includes a pot-bellied appearance and fatty deposits on the shoulders, neck, and face.
Abnormal Behavior
Horses with Cushing’s disease often exhibit abnormal behaviors, such as aggression, anxiety, and irritability.
Increased Body Temperature
Horses with Cushing’s disease often have an increased body temperature, which can be caused by the increased production of cortisol.
It is important to note that not all horses with Cushing’s disease will exhibit all of these signs. Additionally, some of these signs can be caused by other conditions, so it is important to speak to a veterinarian if you notice any of these signs in your horse.
How to Diagnose Cushing’s Disease in Horses?
Cushing’s Disease is a common endocrine disorder in horses, but it can be difficult to diagnose. Diagnosis typically requires a combination of physical examination, laboratory testing, and imaging.
Physical Examination
A physical examination is an important step in diagnosing Cushing’s Disease. During the physical exam, the veterinarian will check the horse’s skin and hair coat for changes associated with Cushing’s Disease, such as thinning, thinning patches of hair, and areas of hyperpigmentation. The veterinarian will also look for other physical signs, such as increased thirst, increased urination, pot-bellied appearance, and laminitis.
Laboratory Testing
Laboratory tests are also essential in diagnosing Cushing’s Disease. A common test used to assess Cushing’s Disease is the Endocrine Profile Test, which measures the levels of cortisol, insulin, and other hormones in the horse’s blood. Other tests may include the ACTH stimulation test, the urine cortisol:creatinine ratio test, and the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test.
Imaging
Imaging tests, such as ultrasound and MRI, can also be used to diagnose Cushing’s disease. These tests can help to identify abnormal growths in the pituitary gland, which can be indicative of Cushing’s Disease.
Ultimately, the diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease in horses requires a combination of physical examination, laboratory testing, and imaging. The veterinarian will take into account all of the results to make an accurate diagnosis.
Summary
Cushing’s Disease in horses is characterized by excessive production of cortisol that leads to various symptoms such as an increased appetite and the horse grazing aggressively, hair loss, drinking more than usual and often urinating more frequently, along with lethargy and weakness.