Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction is the most common hormonal disease in older horses, causing significant welfare impacts that can be well-managed with treatment.
Uncontrolled PPID causes progressive suffering: muscle wasting reduces comfort and mobility; hypertrichosis causes overheating; laminitis causes chronic severe pain; and immunosuppression leads to repeated infections. With early detection and pergolide treatment, horses can maintain good quality of life for many years. Regular monitoring and proactive laminitis prevention are essential. Horses with PPID require careful management through seasonal ACTH rises in autumn.