Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), commonly called Equine Cushing's disease, is a progressive hormonal disorder affecting older horses and ponies that causes significant suffering if untreated.
PPID causes progressive, multisystem suffering in horses. The failure to shed the winter coat leads to chronic overheating, sweating discomfort, and skin infections. Muscle wasting over the topline reduces strength and mobility. Laminitis, occurring in up to 70% of PPID cases, is acutely and chronically painful, affecting every step the animal takes. Many horses with undiagnosed PPID suffer for years with signs attributed to normal aging. Pergolide treatment is effective at reducing ACTH levels and preventing laminitis episodes, but requires lifelong commitment. Quality of life improves dramatically with appropriate management: regular dental care, parasite control, appropriate feeding, and hoof care. Euthanasia decisions are most difficult when laminitis becomes unmanageable despite treatment.