Horse Cushings Disease Management

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (Cushings disease) is common in horses over 15. Early diagnosis and management significantly improves quality of life.

Key Facts

PPID affects an estimated 20-30% of horses over 15 years old
The pituitary gland produces excess ACTH causing multiple hormonal effects
Signs include a long curly coat failing to shed, muscle wasting, laminitis risk, and increased thirst
Pergolide medication effectively controls PPID symptoms in most horses
Regular blood testing for ACTH concentration guides diagnosis and treatment monitoring

Welfare Considerations

Horses with unmanaged PPID experience a progressive decline in condition alongside high laminitis risk that causes severe hoof pain. The distinctive curly non-shedding coat causes thermoregulation problems in summer requiring clipping. Once diagnosed and treated with pergolide, most horses show significant improvement in coat, energy, and muscle condition. Regular ACTH monitoring adjusts medication dosage seasonally as requirements change. Early diagnosis prevents laminitis episodes that would cause significant welfare harm.

What You Can Do

Have horses over 15 screened annually for PPID using blood ACTH testing
Clip horses with PPID-related non-shedding coats in spring to prevent heat stress
Begin pergolide treatment promptly on diagnosis and adjust dosage with seasonal monitoring
Manage diet carefully to reduce laminitis risk in PPID-affected horses
Reassess quality of life and treatment goals regularly in advanced PPID cases