Horse PPID (Equine Cushing's): Management and Welfare

Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) is an endocrine disorder causing abnormal coat, laminitis, and immune suppression in older horses. Treatment significantly improves welfare.

Key Facts

PPID affects approximately 21% of horses over 15 years old
It is caused by progressive dysfunction of the pars intermedia of the pituitary gland
The classic sign is a long, curly coat that fails to shed (hypertrichosis), often with muscle wasting
PPID predisposes horses to recurrent laminitis — a major welfare concern
Diagnosis is by resting ACTH blood test, ideally in autumn when values are naturally elevated
Treatment with pergolide (Prascend) controls hormone levels and reduces laminitis risk effectively

Welfare Considerations

PPID causes progressive welfare harm: uncomfortable coat growth, muscle wasting reducing exercise capacity, increased susceptibility to infections (including foot abscesses and dental disease), and laminitis causing chronic pain. Many horses suffer for years before PPID is recognized because the signs develop gradually and are attributed to "normal aging." Early diagnosis and pergolide treatment reverses many signs and dramatically reduces laminitis frequency, extending comfortable life expectancy. Routine ACTH testing in horses over 15 should be standard care.

What You Can Do

Test horses over 15 years old for PPID with an ACTH blood test annually, ideally in autumn
Start pergolide treatment promptly if PPID is diagnosed — benefits appear within weeks
Clip hypertrichotic coats in summer to prevent overheating and discomfort
Manage diet and foot care carefully to reduce laminitis risk in PPID-affected horses