Horse Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction Management

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), commonly called equine Cushings disease, is an endocrine disorder affecting older horses that requires lifelong management for welfare.

Key Facts

PPID affects an estimated 15-30% of horses over 15 years of age
The pituitary gland overproduces hormones that affect cortisol regulation and metabolism
Signs include hypertrichosis (failure to shed a long curly coat), weight loss, muscle wasting, and laminitis
Pergolide medication is the gold standard treatment and significantly improves quality of life
Laminitis secondary to PPID can be severe and debilitating without careful management

Welfare Considerations

Untreated PPID causes progressive suffering: persistent heavy coat causes heat stress, muscle wasting reduces mobility, and secondary laminitis causes severe foot pain. The condition is chronic and progressive, but responds well to treatment with pergolide mesylate. Annual ACTH blood testing allows early detection before clinical signs appear. Horses diagnosed early and treated consistently can maintain good quality of life for many years. Regular dental and hoof care is essential in affected horses.

What You Can Do

Have horses over 15 years tested annually for PPID with blood ACTH measurement
Work with a veterinarian to establish appropriate pergolide dosing and monitoring
Manage diet carefully to avoid laminitis triggers in PPID horses
Clip hypertrichotic horses in warm weather to prevent heat stress