Equine Cushings Disease (ECD)

ECD is a condition that mainly affects middle aged to older horses and ponies caused by an abnormality of the pituarity gland leading to overproduction of hormones and cortisol. This leads to the classic signs associated with the disease such as a long curly coat, lethargy, laminitis, weight loss, increased drinking and secondary infections. The diagnosis of the disease is made by clinical assessment and a variety of blood tests. The treatment includes management changes, for example clipping as required, good feeding and dental care, treatment of laminitis if present and medication. The different types of available medication are all given orally and usually improve the horse’s condition in 6-8 weeks. There are many conditions that can affect older equidae so please contact us if you have any concerns about your horse or pony’s health.