Horse Equine Cushings Disease and Welfare

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, Cushings disease) is a common hormonal condition in older horses causing a range of welfare-compromising symptoms.

Key Facts

PPID affects an estimated 25-30% of horses over 15 years of age
The classic long, curly coat (hypertrichosis) is the most obvious sign, but many cases present without it
PPID dramatically increases laminitis risk through insulin dysregulation
Pergolide medication effectively controls PPID and significantly improves welfare
Annual blood testing (ACTH) allows early diagnosis before clinical signs are severe

Welfare Considerations

PPID causes progressive welfare compromise through muscle wasting, immune suppression, laminitis vulnerability and chronic discomfort. The disease is insidious — owners may attribute signs including coat changes, muscle loss and reduced stamina to normal ageing. Annual screening from age 15 allows early detection and treatment. Pergolide therapy is effective and affordable, controlling the condition and preventing the most serious consequence — laminitis. Undiagnosed PPID in a horse that then develops laminitis represents an avoidable welfare failure. Managing PPID horses also requires careful diet and exercise planning to maintain healthy weight and muscle mass.

What You Can Do

Screen horses over 15 annually for PPID with blood ACTH testing
Administer pergolide as prescribed and monitor response to treatment
Manage PPID horses with strict low-sugar diets to reduce laminitis risk
Do not attribute coat changes or muscle loss to normal ageing without veterinary assessment