Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is characterized by: obesity, or regional adiposity (the accumulation of fat in certain parts of the body, usually the neck), insulin resistance (IR), ad laminitis in horses and ponies. EMS is thought to be genetic with certain breeds of horses more predisposed than others. These horses are referred to as “easy keepers” because they are efficient at using calories and require less dietary maintenance than other horses to maintain their body weight. Breeds that have evolved to live in harsh conditions, such as Morgans, Peruvian Pasos, Paso Fino, Spanish Mustang, and warm bloods, are particularly susceptible. Typical cases of EMS are diagnosed in horses between the ages of eight and eighteen. A hypothesis for the onset of obesity in horses is the production of cortisol by fat cells, interfering with the function of insulin. Equine metabolic syndrome symptoms include a crest of fat on the neck, fat deposits above the eyes and the sheath of males, and unusual estrous cycles in mares.
Equine Metabolic Syndrome – Laminitis
Laminitis, also called founder, is a “feature” of EMS. It is painful and debilitating disease of the digitial laminae (the issue between the coffin bone and hoof wall). Often damage has already occurred before the disease is diagnosed, resulting in the sinking and rotation of the coffin bone. Dropped soles, unusual growth lines, and separation of the hoof at the white line are all symptoms. There are several causes of laminitis though the most common is called “grass founder”, occurring in horses and ponies kept on pasture. Unlike EMS, individual horses, rather than breeds or other distinguishable groups, are prone to develop laminitis.
Equine Metabolic Syndrome Treatment
There are no medications for EMS. Mature horses diagnosed with EMS should not be given grain, grain mixes with molasses, or unlimited access to pasture as glucose is available in abundance in these feeds. A balancer pellet or vitamin pellet can be given to give essential nutrients without carbohydrates. It is recommended that 1.5% of a horse or ponies ideal weight be given in the form of stem hay with minimal leaves. Legume hays such as alfalfa should be avoided as they have a higher calorie count. If these are the only hays available they should be soaked for 30 minutes to extract the soluble sugars. If the horse needs additional energy non-strach sources such as rice bran are good alternatives. To prevent EMS grain heavy diets should not be given to young horses. In addition to diet an exercise program should be developed. Consult with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate program for your horse.
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