'Starman' Laidlaw

Our Horse of the Month for May is the cheeky Starman! Starman’s owner Gail noticed several signs of Equine Cushing’s disease before Starman was diagnosed with this condition: he had episodes of laminitis, he had a patchy coat (this is usually a result of abnormal moulting and hair growth), and he was always sweating. His chest was wet even during the winter months, and he didn’t need his rug on as much as he previously would.  

 

Starman’s vet has prescribed medication to control the signs of Equine Cushing’s disease and make him more comfortable, and Gail reports that he is now doing well!

 

Equine Cushing’s disease is a progressive condition: this means that it is expected that the dose of medication may need to increase over time in order to keep the signs of this disease under control. Starman sometimes shows signs of Equine Cushing’s disease, for example lethargy, and this is why Gail books him in for a 6-monthly review and blood test so that Starman’s vet can check the level of medication is appropriate.