Cushing’s in Horses: Understanding PPID and Why Fall Testing Matters | Ep. 83

Scoop & Scale: An Equine Podcast (Mostly) About Nutrition

Scoop & Scale: An Equine Podcast (Mostly) About Nutrition
Cushing’s in Horses: Understanding PPID and Why Fall Testing Matters | Ep. 83
Aug 31, 2026 Season 4 Episode 83
Dr. Clair Thunes and Jill Jackson

If you have an older horse, you’ve probably heard of Cushing’s disease, but how much has changed in what we know about diagnosing and managing it? In this episode, we take a closer look at pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), the condition commonly called Cushing’s in horses, and explore why fall is an especially important time to think about testing.

We discuss:

• The early signs of PPID that are easy to mistake for normal aging
• Why the seasonal rise in ACTH makes fall an important testing window
• How ACTH testing and TRH stimulation testing differ, and how results are interpreted
• Why insulin status matters alongside a PPID diagnosis, especially when it comes to laminitis risk and nutrition
• Current approaches to treatment, monitoring, and feeding the PPID horse

If you have a senior horse, suspect PPID, or already have a horse diagnosed with Cushing’s, this episode offers an updated look at what horse owners should know about recognizing, testing, and managing this common endocrine disorder. 

Scoop & Scale is proudly sponsored by GG Equine.

We’re excited to partner with GG Equine, makers of thoughtful slow-feed systems trusted by horse owners, veterinarians, and professionals.

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Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com   

Thanks for riding along with us! 

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