Bloated belly

[Nudibranch]

My Cushings pony has the typical physique - rubbish topline, big fat belly, etc. She was recently on box rest with strangles and after only a day on hay and a small amount of hard feed, the belly disappeared and she looked a lot better.

She is back out on restricted grazing with a small amount of hay which she doesn't usually touch, and the giant belly is back. I just wondered why grass causes this and whether it is a health issue (she doesn't get enough to trigger laminitis and is much happier outside)?

 

[amandap]

I don't know much about horses with Cushings but have you seen this site? Also this lady runs a Yahoo group which may be helpful for you.
http://www.metabolichorse.co.uk/
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/TheMetabolicHorse/

 

[orin]

not sure if this of any help but my pony has inflammatory bowel disease and he is always bloated. it looks like someone has blown him up with air?

 

[kellyeaton]

is she wormed? call vet to be on safe side!

 

[tikino]

i have a pony with cushings disease and does the same thing. i spoke to my vet and was told that i was paraniod and to stop worrying as this is normal. hope this helps. by the way my pony has cushings disease and is only 9 years old and has had it about 1 year.