PPID (equine Cushings disease) is the most common endocrine disorder in horses over 15 and requires active management to prevent serious welfare complications.
PPID welfare management is defined by the prevention of laminitis — the most serious and welfare-impactful complication of untreated or inadequately controlled PPID. Laminitis in PPID horses is often recurrent and progressive, causing chronic laminar inflammation and structural changes to the hoof that produce lasting pain and mobility impairment. Effective pergolide management, combined with dietary carbohydrate restriction and careful pasture management during high-risk periods, substantially reduces laminitis risk and maintains quality of life. The seasonal ACTH rise that occurs in late summer and autumn represents a predictable welfare risk period requiring proactive dose adjustment — vets and owners who recognise this prevent welfare crises that would otherwise be treated reactively. PPID is not a fatal diagnosis when managed well; many horses maintain good quality of life for years after diagnosis.