Research into equine metabolic syndrome and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction is advancing rapidly, improving welfare management options for affected horses.
Equine metabolic welfare is improving as research generates better diagnostic and management tools. Earlier detection of EMS through insulin dysregulation testing before clinical signs appear allows preventive management. Better monitoring of PPID through seasonal ACTH testing prevents the autumn laminitis risk period from catching owners unprepared. The most clinically significant research advance is the recognition of the autumn ACTH rise — a predictable seasonal phenomenon that requires proactive pergolide dose adjustment rather than reactive response to laminitis development. Welfare improves when owners and veterinarians anticipate and prevent events rather than responding to crises.