Cushing's disease has a new name

The condition previously referred to as (equine) Cushing's disease is now called PPID for greater precision. PPID is a disease of the endocrine system,  which changes the production of hormones that regulate the function of your horse's body. As hormones interact, they have a wide range of effects on the body. A disruption of the normal hormone production and activity can therefore cause a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms become more manifest over the course of time. In the past, middle-aged horses (15 to 20 years) were not diagnosed with Cushing's disease (PPID) because it was assumed that their symptoms were the consequence of natural aging processes.

What are the common symptoms of Equine Cushing's Disease (ECD/PPID)?

• Hirsutism: abnormal hair coat with long to curly coat throughout the year
• Laminitis: occurs in some 50 to 80% of all ECD patients, particularly in ponies (often with recurring bouts)
• Muscle loss and weight loss: swayback and potbelly
• Redistributed fat: fat pouches over the eye sockets
• Weakened immune system, making the horse susceptible to infections of all kinds (e.g. skin, sinuses, eyes and teeth, parasites) , evident in laminitis and hoof abscesses, poor wound healing
• Excessive drinking and urination
• Sweating without exertion, poor performance, apathy
• Fertility problems

In general terms, horses with Cushing's disease (PPID) can become sluggish and develop an aversion to exercise, which is frequently the first sign of the disease. Such changes in your animal can be very upsetting to you as the horse owner, so don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian for advice as soon as you notice symptoms that make you suspicious.