EWA Welfare Corner: Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID)

Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), often called equine Cushing’s disease, is one of the most common endocrine disorders in older horses and ponies. It develops when changes in the pituitary gland cause an overproduction of certain hormones, leading to wide-ranging effects on a horse’s health. Signs may include loss of topline, abnormal fat deposits, long curly coats that don’t shed properly, recurrent infections, and delayed wound healing.

However, one of the most serious complications is laminitis, a painful and potentially devastating condition of the hooves. Importantly, recurrent laminitis in older horses is usually linked to poor control of both PPID and insulin dysregulation. These conditions often occur together, and unless both are properly addressed, horses remain at high risk of repeated painful flare-ups.

From a welfare perspective, untreated PPID leads to chronic discomfort, weight loss, and reduced quality of life. With early diagnosis, appropriate medication, and careful management of diet and insulin levels, many horses can remain comfortable, active, and happy well into their senior years.

Information provided by Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services

Video to support this can be found via Equestrian WA Facebook Page.