Recognizing equine PPID (Cushing’s Disease) symptoms
Early symptoms of PPID in horses are often missed
The signs and symptoms of PPID can vary depending on the level of progression of the disease and the individual horse. While the signs of advanced PPID are more obvious, it is easy to miss the subtle, early symptoms of PPID.
Classic symptoms of PPID (Cushing’s Disease) in horses
While there are many clinical signs and symptoms of PPID, abnormal hair coat and laminitis are the two most well known. Both of these symptoms can occur at all stages of the disease but tend to be subtle earlier on and increase in severity as the disease progresses.
Abnormal hair coat
Abnormal hair coat, including a lack of seasonal shedding, is one of the classic clinical signs of equine PPID.
In early PPID,
haircoat abnormalities tend to be subtle and regional. Your horse may shed his winter coat everywhere except in small patches—usually around the jawline and base of the neck, and along the back of the front and hind legs. The summer coat may grow longer and lighter in colour in these areas.
In advanced PPID,
hair coat abnormalities are more noticeable and generalized; your horse does not shed out his winter coat until well into spring or summer, or in some cases, not at all. The fur may also appear abnormal—lighter in colour, longer, and/or curly.
Laminitis
Laminitis is the inflammation of sensitive layers of tissue inside the hoof. Laminitis is considered both an early sign and an advanced sign of PPID. Laminitis can also occur in a number of situations other than PPID, including equine metabolic syndrome.
Laminitis has been shown to be associated with abnormal insulin levels.
Laminitis can be a devastating disease. It is extremely painful and debilitating for the horse. In severe cases, euthanasia is often the only option. Recognizing the early signs of laminitis is important to increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Equine laminitis signs, in order of disease progression, include:
A strong digital pulse and hooves that feel warm to the touch
A shortened stride or stiff gait
Horse hoof deformities, including abnormal hoof growth rings
A pronounced white line between the hoof wall and sole
Shifting weight from hoof to hoof
Reluctance or refusal to move or to pick up the feet
An abnormal stance in which the horse may appear rocked back or forward
Early signs and symptoms of equine PPID (Cushing’s Disease)
Recognizing the early clinical signs of PPID is important, as it can help lead to an earlier diagnosis of PPID. The sooner you can begin treatment, the easier it is to manage the symptoms.
Early symptoms of PPID in horses include:
Advanced signs and symptoms of PPID (Cushing’s Disease)
Advanced PPID symptoms are more obvious; these include:
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