Old TB getting very jumpy

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oldie48

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My 26 year old retired TB has become very jumpy of late. He's always been a bit spooky and highly strung, but over the past year he seems to be getting worse and I've had several experiences when he's been quite difficult to get in and out of his field. I've had him for 15 years and generally he's a well mannered respectful chap. He's been on prascend (for cushings)for the past 2 years which seems to suit him. His weight is good and apart from some arthritis in his hocks he's very well (recently had an MOT with the vet). Has anyone else found this in their older horse? I'm wondering if his pituitary gland could be anything to do with it as I know it can cause fits in some cushings horses
 
Cushings can make horses more on edge as it affects the hormone levels that naturally manage stress and the fight or flight response. That's why one the recommendations is to try to keep the horse stress free as possible. My 24 yr old Tb became noticeably more spooky and alert out hacking over the last couple of her ridden years, which I know was the cushings effect as I'd had her from an unbroken 4yr old so knew her well.
 
That's really helpful to know. Last year when I was still hacking him out I noticed he'd become sharper. The problems I've had with him have been when it's been very windy or it's been lashing down with rain or there's been something going on across the field, situations that in the past, would have made him a bit sharp to handle but certainly not really tricky. I will talk to the vet again about him but perhaps i also need to think about how best to keep myself safe, it's no fun being walked over especially by a horse I know so well!
Puddleduck said:
Cushings can make horses more on edge as it affects the hormone levels that naturally manage stress and the fight or flight response. That's why one the recommendations is to try to keep the horse stress free as possible. My 24 yr old Tb became noticeably more spooky and alert out hacking over the last couple of her ridden years, which I know was the cushings effect as I'd had her from an unbroken 4yr old so knew her well.
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It does sound like he is responding to a slightly increased hormone level from what you've just said, sounds like he's a bit more on edge.
My girlie has sadly been having a few fitting episodes. They are most likely caused by pressure on the brain from the enlarged pituitary or a secondary tumour. When she's been in one she has been catatonic and gone down like a sack of spuds, nothing like your boy so I don't think you've anything to worry about.
Would worth speaking to your vet, maybe you could try one of the natural calmers to see if that helps
 
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