Equine Veterinary Services
Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) at Los Lunas Animal Clinic in Los Lunas, NM
Early diagnosis and treatment of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) help manage symptoms and improve your horse’s quality of life. Book appointment today.
PPID in Los Lunas, NM
Causes and Symptoms of PPID
PPID occurs when the pituitary gland overproduces hormones, leading to metabolic imbalances. It can affect horses of all breeds and ages, though it is more common in older horses. Formerly known as cushing’s disease, PPID is not contagious but can cause serious health complications.
Early Clinical Signs:
- Abnormal sweating (increased or decreased)
- Change in attitude or lethargy
- Decreased athletic performance
- Delayed hair coat shedding
- Tendon inflammation (desmitis/tendonitis)
- Infertility
- Laminitis or recurrent sole abscesses
- Loss of topline muscle mass
- Regional fat deposits
- Localized hair growth abnormalities (regional hypertrichosis)
Advanced Clinical Signs:
- Severe abnormal sweating
- Blindness
- Dull attitude or altered mentation
- Excessive mammary gland secretions
- Exercise intolerance
- Generalized hair growth abnormalities (hypertrichosis)
- Persistent infertility
- Chronic laminitis
- Loss of seasonal hair coat shedding
- Increased parasite susceptibility
- Increased thirst and urination (polyuria/polydipsia)
- Supraorbital fat bulging (regional adiposity)
- Frequent infections
- Rounded abdomen
- Skeletal muscle atrophy
- Tendon and suspensory ligament laxity
PPID Diagnosis and Treatment at Los Lunas Animal Clinic
Los Lunas Animal Clinic provides comprehensive diagnostic services to identify and manage PPID. A simple blood test can confirm the presence of the disease, allowing for early intervention.
How We Help:
- Blood Testing – Detects hormone imbalances associated with PPID.
- Nutritional Counseling – Recommends diet adjustments to support metabolic health.
- Medication Management – Prescribes daily treatment to regulate hormone levels.
- Laminitis Prevention – Provides hoof care and monitoring to reduce complications.
- Farm Calls – Offers on-site blood collection for convenience.
If you suspect your horse has PPID, early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference. Call Los Lunas Animal Clinic at 505-865-4604 to book appointment today.