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, …