23/04/2026
Have a Golden Oldie?
Autumn is the perfect time to check for endocrine diseases that may be affecting your horses health and longevity. The most common condition we test for is Equine Cushings Disease, also known as PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction)
Here are some facts and fictions about PPID
🍁 FACT - Equine Cushings Disease is not the same as Equine Metabolic Syndrome. Although we often test for both at the same time, Cushings is an endocrine disorder relating to increased hormone (ACTH) release, whereas EMS is characterised by insulin dysregulation
🍁 FACT - Cushings is most commonly diagnosed in horses over 15yrs but cases in younger horses are seen. 20-25% of horses over 15yrs are affected
🍁 FALSE - All horses with Cushings have hairy coats. Actually, only about 15% of horses show the classic clinical signs of a long coat with delayed shedding, loss of top line and condition, lethargy, and increased water intake and urination
🍁 FACT - your horse’s immune system will be suppressed by Cushings, making them more susceptible to illness, skin problems, dental disease, ongoing laminitis and other conditions that could decrease longevity
🍁 FALSE - Your horse is old so there’s no point treating him for Cushings. There is! Correct treatment of Cushings can give your horse a new lease on life, increase his lifespan by years and improve athletic performance
🍁 FACT - Testing for, and treating Cushings has become very manageable! A simple blood test to check levels of ACTH is all it takes to diagnose, and there are multiple methods of treatment including a daily liquid or tablet, or a weekly injection
🍁 FACT - Autumn is the best time to do a blood test for Cushings, as there is typically a natural seasonal rise in ACTH levels at this time of year, allowing for more accurate and sensitive diagnosing
If you would like more information about Equine Cushings, or to book your horse in for some diagnostics, please contact our team on 97965800
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