Equine Cushing's Disease Alternatives

Equine Cushing's disease is a hormonal imbalance caused by problems in the pituitary gland. According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the average age of the horse at diagnosis is 20 years. While the term "Cushing's disease" is also used for diseases in humans and dogs, equine Cushing's disease differs in the part of the pituitary gland affected and the hormones found in the bloodstream at the time of diagnosis.

  1. Alternative Treatments for Cushing's disease

    • Diet plays a part in the treatment of Cushing's disease. According to the AAEP, horses with Cushing's often are resistant to insulin, which limits the ability of their bodies to deal with sugar in the blood. Sweet feeds and molasses-coated feeds should be avoided.

      Dr. Judith L. Mulholland, an Australian farrier, says antioxidants should be part of the diet for a horse with Cushing's disease. She also suggests a treatment of chaste tree berry. The herbal supplement is available from vendors. It is mixed with feed twice a day for six weeks. The horse should be retested at that time to determine insulin and cortisol levels. If they have improved, a reduced diet of the supplement may be warranted.

      Early diagnosis of Cushing's disease improves the likelihood of success with herbal treatments. Look for long hair that does not shed in the usual seasonal manner. Blood tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis.

      The human medicine pergolide mesylate, a treatment for Parkinson's disease, is also used in the treatment of equine Cushing's disease. A veterinarian prescription would be required for this treatment.

      Owners of horses with Cushing's disease are urged to keep the animal at an appropriate weight and monitor the condition of the hooves. Laminitis is often a result of Cushing's disease.