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Feeding Horses with Cushing’s Disease (PPID): Why Nutrition Matters
October 9, 2025 by
Admin

Feeding Horses with Cushing’s Disease (PPID): Why Nutrition Matters

Cushing’s disease, also known as Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), is a common hormonal disorder in older horses. It affects metabolism, increases insulin resistance, and weakens the immune and muscular systems. Because of these changes, nutrition plays a crucial role in managing the disease and preventing complications such as laminitis, muscle loss, or weight issues.

The Role of Diet

Horses with Cushing’s require a diet that provides steady energy, supports muscle maintenance, and helps regulate blood sugar. The main goal is to reduce non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) — sugars and starch — while maintaining sufficient calories, fiber, and nutrients.

  • Choose low-sugar, low-starch forage: Select hay with less than 10–12% NSC. If necessary, soak hay for 30–60 minutes to reduce sugar content. Avoid cereal grains and sweet feeds.
  • Focus on fiber and fat as energy sources: Replace starch-rich feeds with beet pulp, hay cubes, or high-fiber senior mixes. These options support digestion and energy without worsening insulin resistance.
  • Add good-quality oils for extra calories: Linseed (flaxseed) oil is an excellent choice for horses with PPID. It provides slow-release energy, improves coat condition, supports joint health, and supplies omega-3 fatty acids that may reduce inflammation. Start gradually with about 50–100 ml per day, adjusted to your horse’s needs.
  • Provide high-quality protein: Include feeds with easily digestible proteins such as alfalfa, soybean meal, or added amino acids to support muscle tone and topline.
  • Support antioxidant and immune function: Vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, selenium, and zinc help protect against oxidative stress and support the immune system, which may be weakened by PPID.
  • Feed little and often: Offering several smaller meals per day helps stabilize insulin levels and supports better digestion.

Management and Monitoring

Regular veterinary care and dental checks are essential. Monitoring your horse’s body condition and weight every few weeks allows for timely dietary adjustments. Combining appropriate nutrition with veterinary treatment, such as pergolide when prescribed, helps maintain comfort and long-term health.

Summary

For horses with Cushing’s, nutrition is a form of therapy. A carefully balanced, low-sugar, fiber-rich diet — complemented by healthy fat sources like linseed oil — can significantly improve health, comfort, and quality of life. Thoughtful feeding, consistent monitoring, and veterinary support are key to helping horses with PPID live well for many years.

Sources

Old horse
How to Help an Older Horse Maintain His Weight