L&M
Well-Known Member
My 15 yr old irish cob has had bloods taken for a cushings test today.
We have been having behavioural problems with him over the last few years, predominately late summer and into autumn. At this time of year he can become excessively spooky, difficult to saddle and unpredictable to catch and ride, and bucking. By the time winter hits he goes back to his normal easy going self. I have always put it down to changes in grass.....however supplements such as Ritetrac don't seem to help.
He has always grown a very thick winter coat, and is a sweaty horse, even when clipped, but doesn't drink excessively. He also struggles to maintain a top line, although grazed and ridden on hills. He is hard to keep weight off and does have a slight pot belly, but again have always put this down to conformation. However he has none of the 'fat pads' sometimes associated with cushiness eg above the eyes/crest etc.
So far we have eliminated back, teeth and saddle - my vet has suggested cushings, but if his bloods come back ok, we are then going to scope him for ulcers.
Anyhow, in a rambling way, has anyone else had a horse diagnosed with cushings that has been indicated by erratic/bad behaviour?
Thanks for any input as cushings is an unknown territory for me....
We have been having behavioural problems with him over the last few years, predominately late summer and into autumn. At this time of year he can become excessively spooky, difficult to saddle and unpredictable to catch and ride, and bucking. By the time winter hits he goes back to his normal easy going self. I have always put it down to changes in grass.....however supplements such as Ritetrac don't seem to help.
He has always grown a very thick winter coat, and is a sweaty horse, even when clipped, but doesn't drink excessively. He also struggles to maintain a top line, although grazed and ridden on hills. He is hard to keep weight off and does have a slight pot belly, but again have always put this down to conformation. However he has none of the 'fat pads' sometimes associated with cushiness eg above the eyes/crest etc.
So far we have eliminated back, teeth and saddle - my vet has suggested cushings, but if his bloods come back ok, we are then going to scope him for ulcers.
Anyhow, in a rambling way, has anyone else had a horse diagnosed with cushings that has been indicated by erratic/bad behaviour?
Thanks for any input as cushings is an unknown territory for me....
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