Horses

Horse Cushing Disease Seasonal Management

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID or Cushing disease) in horses requires careful seasonal management, especially in autumn when ACTH levels naturally spike.

Key Facts

PPID affects around 20% of horses over age 15
ACTH levels naturally peak in August-October, worsening clinical signs
Common signs include long curly coat, laminitis, muscle wasting and increased drinking
Pergolide medication effectively controls the disease in most horses
Seasonal ACTH testing in autumn helps calibrate medication doses accurately

Welfare Considerations

Unmanaged PPID causes chronic suffering through laminitis pain, immune suppression and metabolic disruption. Autumn seasonal surges require proactive dose increases before clinical signs worsen. Early diagnosis, consistent medication and dietary management dramatically improve quality of life for affected horses.

What You Can Do

Test horses over 15 for PPID with blood ACTH measurement in autumn
Work with a vet to adjust pergolide dose during autumn seasonal ACTH surge
Feed a low-sugar low-starch diet to reduce laminitis risk
Clip long curly coats to prevent overheating and skin problems
Monitor for laminitis signs and contact a vet and farrier promptly