How to Treat Cushing's Disease in a Pony

Cushing's disease is caused by a small tumor in a pony or horse's pituitary gland. The pituitary gland controls the endocrine system, so the disease can cause a number of symptoms including the pony's inability to shed a long, curly coat, excessive thirst and urination, and, in extreme cases, laminitis. Veterinarians diagnose the disease through blood tests that check for elevated cortisol levels. Medications cannot shrink the tumor on the pituitary gland itself, but in many cases they can successfully treat the symptoms of the disease, restoring the pony's quality of life for many years.

Things You'll Need

  • Cyproheptadine
  • Coffee grinder
  • Worming medication
  • Clippers
  • Blanket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Administer cyproheptadine, a serotonin blocker, in your pony's feed. Your vet can prescribe cyproheptadine in tablet form. Place the prescribed number of tablets in a coffee grinder used only for your pony's medication, place the cover on, and grind the tablets. Pour the ground up tablets in your pony's feed. Monitor your pony's improvement on the medication by checking how much water he or she is drinking every 24 hours. Your vet will increase the medication level until your pony's water intake level has decreased to normal and other Cushing's disease symptoms have been eliminated. Once the symptoms are under control, your vet will reduce the cyproheptadine dosage to a maintenance level.

    • 2

      Work with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your pony. Eliminating simple carbohydrates is best for ponies with Cushing's disease. Feed grass and legume hays, which are lower in starch, instead of oat and barley hays.

    • 3

      Keep your pony's coat clipped, blanketing whenever necessary.

    • 4

      Keep your pony current on all vaccinations, farrier and dental work.

    • 5

      Deworm your pony with medication available at your local feed store at least every 45 days.