EQUINE Cushings Disease - a malfunction of the Pituitary gland, leading to excess production of cortisol, which is a natural steroid. This is a typical problem of the older horse.

SYMPTOMS  

• Excessive thirst - drinking up to 3 times more than usual.    

• Long coarse hairy coat, sometimes curly, retained in summer.  

• Swayback stance and pot belly.

• Deposit of fat above the eyes.

• Dull, listless appearance.  

• Increased appetite (but probably without improved condition)  

• Laminitis.

• Loss of topline.

• Weakened immune system, allowing a variety of diseases to take hold.
  
  Several websites, produced by qualified veterinary practitioners observe that if caught early, Cushings Disease can be controlled with Agnus Castus (Monk's Pepper, Chaste Tree) see www.pegasushealth.com. For advice on maintaining condition go to www.gravenhorse.co.uk/Condition