The Way Of Horses

By Eleanor Richards
© Copyright 2006

Does your horse look like a yak in the summer? Could it be Cushings syndrome? The most recognized symptom is the heavy, coarse, wavy hair coat that fails to shed in the summer. But not all horses that have Cushings syndrome display the abnormal hair coat. Here is a list of other possible symptoms:

• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination
• Swaybacked or potbellied appearance
• Increased appetite with no weight gain
• Loss of muscle over the top line
• Chronic laminitis
• Weakened immune system
• Patchy sweating
• Long, heavy, curly coat

In humans Cushings syndrome is caused by a benign tumor of the pituitary gland. In horses it is usually caused by abnormal pituitary gland function. No one is sure what triggers the malfunction.

If Cushings is suspected, a blood test can be taken. But, the clinical signs are pretty obvious and some veterinarians may start treatment based on the symptoms. The syndrome progressives slowly and causes more symptoms as time goes on.

A horse with Cushings may have a hard time metabolizing soluble starch (sugar). This problem is called equine metabolic syndrome and causes insulin resistance. Not all horses with Cushings have equine metabolic syndrome. Obese horses should be tested for amount of insulin in the blood. If you catch it early you can avoid laminitis by managing the diet and starting a weight loss program.

Feed containing high amounts of corn, barley and even oats should be avoided. Try to find a product that uses fat as an energy source. Products that contain beet pulp can also be offered just be sure the soluble or non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) level is low. Avoid pasture that is lush and high in fructan. It is possible the insulin resistant horse may not be allowed to graze. Provide hay that has a low NSC level. Visit www.safergrass.org for more information.

It is essential a well-balanced diet is provided. Vitamins, minerals and good quality protein is needed to maintain a healthy equine body. Unfortunately the disease is incurable, but there are drugs that can be used to treat the symptoms. It is recommended you consult your veterinarian as soon as Cushings is suspected. Horses with mild symptoms respond best to treatment and may have their lives extended by several years.

In addition to the drug therapy, health management and preventative care is imperative. Diet, vaccinations, deworming, regular tooth and hoof care, and a prompt response to infections are critical in maintaining the health of the Cushings horse. He will require body clipping in the summer (several times), shade in the hot months, and shelter in the winter, as he can no longer regulate body temperature. It is disheartening to discover your horse is suffering from an incurable disease. Cushings is a slow progressing illness, but with proper care and management your friend can still lead a comfortable life.

* Proper nutrition and management practices can prevent many problems associated with caring for horses. You can learn how to provide your horse with a better life-style by taking the online course How to Feed for Maximum Performance taught by Eleanor Richards. Go to www.horsecoursesonline.com for more information. Contact Eleanor at elrichards@thewayofhorses.com or (440) 554-3714. Be sure to visit Eleanors web site at www.thewayofhorses.com

Eleanor Richards was raised training and caring for horses. She learned to ride and care for the horses her family bought and sold. Many of these horses required improved nutrition when they arrived for training. Eleanor's experience and research has benefited both horses and horse lovers in the field of equine nutrition.

The equine nutrition consultant for Western Reserve Farm Cooperative, located in northeast Ohio, she keeps busy doing equine nutrition consultations, conducting seminars, and speaking to youth groups about horse care and nutrition. Eleanor is the author of the syndicated column The Way of Horses. She has more than 20 years experience helping and being a mentor to those wanting to know how to provide the very best care and nutrition for our special friend - the horse. Richards is also the author and instructor of the online course "Nutrition for Maximum Performance". This course is offered by Breyer State University as part of the Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies program, New Mexico State University, Paradise Valley Community College, Allegany College of Maryland, Scottsdale Community College, Iyuptala University, and Success is Easy's certified Professional Horse Trainer program. Visit Eleanor's web site at www.thewayofhorses.com or contact her at (440) 554-3714