Supplements for Cushing's Disease in Horses

Equine Cushing's disease is a life-threatening affliction most commonly found in older horses and ponies. Cushing's disease produces a tumor on the pituitary gland. This causes imbalances in the metabolism of the horse. Most horse owners will notice the classic symptoms: laminitis,the long shaggy coat that will not shed in the spring, fat deposits on the neck, obesity or muscle deterioration, increased consumption of water and general lethargy. Because many of these senior horses are beloved pets, owners of Cushing's horses often search for ways to prolong and enhance the quality of life. While there is no cure for Cushing's disease, some supplements have shown to decrease symptoms when used in addition to veterinarian-prescribed medications.

  1. Oils

    • Owners of horses with Cushing's disease commonly face one of two problems. The horses are either grossly obese or underweight. The challenge with an underweight Cushing's horse is that most weight gain supplements are high in starch and sugars that adversely affect the hooves. Corn oil, rice bran oil and vegetable oil are often used as a source of high-fat calories without the risk of founder and laminitis. The oil is fed as a top dressing in addition to the normal feed rations. Because it is considered a safe supplement, the amount fed can be increased until the desired results are achieved.

    Chaste Tree Berries

    • Chasteberry has been shown to be effective in reducing depression, increasing activity levels and assisting with shedding of the long hair in Cushing's horses. Vitex is a popular supplement that uses chasteberry extract in an herbal form. Dried chasteberry can also be purchased as whole berries and ground into a powder for a top dressing.

      The Laminitis Trust's study in 2001 did not show any improvement in the insulin levels of Cushing's horses with the use of Vitex. However, all owners that participated in the study reported an increase in activity and decrease in depression of their Cushing's horses.

    Magnesium and Chromium Picolinate

    • Magnesium deficiency in an equine is considered a predisposition for Cushing's disease and insulin resistance. Magnesium supplementation helps achieve a calcium balance that benefits horses with Cushing's disease, and can help protect against laminitis. Chromium has been found to lower insulin levels in horses and ponies. These two supplements are most commonly used together. They are considered safe options. Most commercial senior feeds contain the proper levels of both magnesium and chromium. If another type of feed is being used, a supplement containing these ingredients can be added.