Horse Cushings Disease (PPID): Welfare Management in Older Horses

Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), commonly called Equine Cushings Disease, affects a significant proportion of older horses and ponies, requiring lifelong management.

Key Facts

PPID affects an estimated 20-25% of horses and ponies over 15 years of age
It is caused by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the pituitary gland
Signs include a long curly coat (hypertrichosis), muscle wasting, laminitis, and lethargy
Diagnosis uses blood ACTH testing, ideally in autumn when values are naturally elevated
Pergolide (Prascend) is the only licensed treatment and effectively manages most cases
Untreated PPID significantly increases laminitis risk - a painful and debilitating condition
Annual autumn ACTH testing is recommended for horses over 10 years to enable early detection

Welfare Considerations

PPID is a significant welfare concern in older equine populations because it is both common and underdiagnosed. Its most serious consequence is laminitis - chronic, painful inflammation of the sensitive laminae within the hoof. This condition causes intense pain and can lead to permanent structural hoof damage. Early diagnosis and treatment with pergolide dramatically reduces laminitis risk and improves quality of life. Welfare management also includes coat clipping in summer to prevent heat stress from the thick, curly coat associated with PPID, and appropriate dietary management to support muscle condition and insulin regulation. Regular ACTH monitoring to adjust pergolide dose is essential for optimal control.

What You Can Do

Test horses and ponies over 10 annually for PPID using autumn ACTH testing
Begin pergolide treatment promptly if PPID is diagnosed to reduce laminitis risk
Clip horses with PPID in summer to prevent heat stress from thick coats
Work with your vet on dietary management to support muscle condition and minimise laminitis risk
Join the PPID owner community for practical management advice and support