Clydesdale losing weight

[Tanyar]

Hi everyone, I am new to this forum and would be grateful for any suggestions re my problem. I have a 17.2h Clydesdale, 18 years old. Up till the last 6 months he has always kept weight on but this last 6 months he has gradually lost about 100kg in weight, you can see/feel his ribs, losing his mane and generally looks dull. His teeth have been checked, worm count done-no burden, tapeworm was a little high so he has been treated for that. I am at a loss as to why he is losing weight, never had any issues previously with him previously. Due to my work commitments he is not ridden and is a gentleman of leisure spending the days grazing with his friends. We live in the south west of Ireland an unfortunately we don’t have any equine vets close by I can chat to.
Can anyone suggest a way forward? I have thought about a blood test and could probably get the local vet to do this but don’t know what I would ask to be tested, any suggestions gratefully received!

Thanks

 

[southerncomfort]

Have you tested for cushings? If you go to the Talk About Laminitis site you can get a code for a free test.

Weight loss/dull coat etc would be classic symptoms.

 

[Tanyar]

Hi, never thought of that as always associated cushings with laminitis/thick curly coat. I will pop over there now! Thanks very much.