Are you concerned that your beloved horse might be showing signs of Cushing’s Disease? When your horse is acting differently or feeling unwell, it can be scary and frustrating to try and figure out what’s going on. This guide can help you learn more about Cushing’s disease, and what current treatment approaches can unlock your relief for your horse’s health and overall well-being.
Cushing’s Disease, also known as PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction), can be tricky to diagnose due to its gradual onset and varied symptoms. But here’s a quick look at the most common things you might start noticing.
What are the First Signs of Cushing’s Disease in Horses?
- Changes in coat, such as excessive hair growth or failure to shed
- Increased thirst and urination
- Muscle wasting, particularly along the topline
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Abnormal fat distribution, often seen as a potbelly
- Lethargy and a general decrease in performance
If your horse exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Understanding Cushing’s Disease in Horses
Cushing’s Disease is an endocrine disorder, which creates large amounts of the adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH). It’s caused by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, which is responsible for hormone production. When hormones are imbalanced it can wreak havoc by increasing cortisol levels (the stress hormone), increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and creating severe issues for both horse and rider.
Although key risk factors include:
Age: It’s more common in horses over the age of 10.
Genetics: Some breeds like Ponies and Morgan Horses may be predisposed.
Stress and other concurrent illnesses can exacerbate this condition.
How Do You Treat Cushing’s in horses?
The most common treatment is Pergolide, an oral medication given once a day. However, emerging research shows that supplements like CBD can give amazing benefits.
Here’s how CBD can help horses with Cushing’s disease:
- Anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may reduce discomfort associated with Cushing’s.
- CBD’s calming effects can help manage stress, a significant factor in Cushing’s Disease.
- A great benefit many of our customers have noticed is huge improvements in coat health and general well-being.
- At Brave Horse CBD we have sugar-free products specially formulated for medical conditions like Cushing’s, ensuring an effective and targeted supplement to your horse’s care routine.
How You Know You’re CBD is Safely Made with Care and Love.
CBD is a natural, non-invasive approach to supplement your horse’s Cushing’s Disease management. Our CBD is organic, THC-free, and third-party tested with the highest standards in the USA, ensuring safety and efficacy. Our handcrafted range of products, including sugar-free ones are made by horse lovers just like you
Combining conventional treatments with CBD can offer a more holistic approach to managing Cushing’s Disease in horses leading to a better quality of life and a happier horse.
