Cushings Symptoms for a Pony

Cushings Disease, also known as Cushings Syndrome, hyperadrenocorticism or Equine Pituitary Gland Hyperplasia (EPGH), is a disease of the pituitary gland that affects the hormones of the pony. It can be found in all breeds of horses as well as dogs and humans. Ponies are more susceptible to the disease than other horses, which is why genetics is thought to play a part in it. Once diagnosed properly, the pony with Cushings Disease will be treated with drugs for the rest of its life and if Cushings is caught before symptoms become too severe, the prognosis for the pony is pretty good. It is important to recognize the symptoms of Cushings so your pony can be tested.

  1. Appearance

    • The most classic symptom for Cushings is a long coat on the pony with wavy hair; a coat with the pony won't be able to shed in the summer. This will develop as the Cushings Disease gets more advanced. Cushings also makes the muscles weaker, so the pony will lose weight and weaker abdominal muscles will cause it to develop a potbelly.

    Appetite

    • A pony with Cushings will also eat and drink more food and water. However, the pony will continue to lose weight. Because it drinks more water, it also will urinate more frequently.

    Laminitis

    • Laminitis is a very common result of Cushings. Laminitis is a painful inflammation of the feet of horses that cause lameness. Ponies with Cushings will often have chronic laminitis that is difficult to treat until the Cushings is treated.

    Lethargy

    • A pony with Cushings will also begin to be lethargic. Its general demeanor will be very dull and weak. The pony also will often have a high fever or will sweat easily. It will appear to be getting old and slow. The pony will not want to work and, in later stages may not be able to stand up.

    Secondary Infections

    • The hormonal imbalance in a pony with Cushings also affects the immune system, which leaves the pony susceptible to many other ailments. These can include pneumonia, sinus infections and reoccurring bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections. Wounds also will be slow to heal, including abscesses in the hooves or teeth.