Introduction 🍏

Horses with a little extra weight are often described as “pleasantly plump” by owners, but obesity in horses is no laughing matter. It can lead to severe health issues, including laminitis, insulin resistance, and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). In this article, Dr Duncan Houston offers insights into why horses get overweight, how to manage their diets, and what to do to prevent long-term damage in 2025 and beyond.

1. The Evolution of “Easy Keepers” 🐴

Historically, horses were selected for their ability to retain body condition while performing hard labor, even when food was scarce. These “easy keepers” were prized for their ability to thrive on limited rations. But in today’s world, where food is abundant and exercise may be minimal, this trait can turn into a problem. Obesity is becoming a common issue in horses, leading to several health problems, including:

• 🍖 Excess weight: Can be a contributing factor to metabolic disorders.
• 🚶‍♂️ Lack of exercise: Horses that are housed in stalls or have limited turnout are less likely to burn off excess calories.
• 🌿 Abundant diets: Horses often receive nutrient-dense diets that are not always suited to their reduced activity levels.

For many horses today, the same metabolic efficiency that once helped them survive now contributes to obesity.

2. Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Obesity 🧬

EMS is a complex condition that affects some horses, particularly those prone to obesity. It involves insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels. This, in turn, can cause a number of issues for the horse:

• 📉 Insulin resistance: The horse’s ability to process sugars is impaired, leading to higher levels of insulin in the blood.
• 🔥 Increased risk of laminitis: Insulin resistance can trigger inflammation in the hooves, which may lead to the painful and dangerous condition of laminitis.
• ⚖️ Obesity: EMS horses are often overweight, which exacerbates the problem by placing additional strain on the body and increasing the risk of laminitis and other metabolic disorders.

EMS is often linked to obesity, and the condition can be exacerbated by inappropriate feeding and lack of exercise.

3. Why Obesity is Dangerous for Horses 💥

While a round rump might seem like a sign of a well-fed horse, obesity is more than just a cosmetic concern. The risks of obesity in horses include:

• 🚨 Laminitis: Obese horses are at a significantly higher risk of developing laminitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition that affects the hooves.
• 🩺 Joint strain: Extra weight puts unnecessary pressure on the joints, leading to long-term mobility issues.
• 🧠 Insulin resistance: Insulin resistance in horses can cause a range of metabolic issues, including increased fat storage, difficulty losing weight, and elevated risk of laminitis.

Ultimately, managing obesity in horses is essential for preventing a host of serious health complications that can impact their quality of life.

4. Understanding Laminitis: The Painful Consequence 🔥

Laminitis is one of the most severe consequences of obesity and EMS in horses. This inflammatory condition affects the lamellae, the tissues that connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone. When laminitis occurs, it leads to:

• 😖 Pain: The inflammation causes excruciating pain, making it difficult for the horse to stand or walk.
• 🔄 Coffin bone rotation: In severe cases, the coffin bone can rotate or sink, causing permanent damage to the hoof.
• 🩸 Vascular damage: Poor circulation in the foot can lead to tissue death and permanent damage to the hooves.

In addition to the direct pain caused by laminitis, horses suffering from this condition experience physiologic stress, which can lead to further complications, including infection and muscle damage. Preventing obesity and EMS is crucial to avoiding laminitis in the first place.

5. Diet and Exercise: The Key to Managing Obesity 🏃‍♂️

Preventing and managing obesity in horses starts with a proper diet and exercise routine:

• 🍃 Reduce high-calorie feeds: Cut back on high-starch grains and alfalfa hay, which are calorie-dense and may contribute to weight gain.
• 🌾 Switch to grass hay: Grass hay is lower in calories and helps prevent excess weight gain while still providing essential fiber.
• 🚶‍♂️ Increase exercise: Ensure your horse gets daily turnout and exercise to help burn off excess calories.
• 🧑‍⚕️ Regular vet checkups: Consult with your vet to monitor your horse’s body condition and adjust their diet and exercise plan accordingly.

Maintaining a healthy weight and consistent exercise routine is essential for the prevention of obesity-related health issues in horses.

6. Body Condition Scoring: How to Monitor Your Horse's Health 📊

One of the best ways to monitor your horse’s weight is through body condition scoring (BCS). This system allows owners and veterinarians to assess the horse’s fat levels on a scale from 1 to 9, with 1 being extremely thin and 9 being obese. Regularly checking your horse's BCS can help you:

• 📏 Track progress: Adjust the diet and exercise routine as needed based on changes in body condition.
• 🩺 Prevent obesity: Regular monitoring can help detect weight gain early, allowing for prompt intervention.
• ⚖️ Ensure a healthy weight: Keeping the horse’s weight in the ideal range reduces the risk of metabolic disorders, laminitis, and joint stress.

Your veterinarian can help you establish a BCS and guide you in maintaining a healthy weight for your horse.

7. Preventing EMS and Laminitis: Vet Tips for 2025 🧑‍⚕️

Prevention is always the best strategy. If your horse has EMS or is at risk for obesity, consider these tips:

• 📉 Monitor diet closely: Avoid overfeeding calorie-dense feeds and ensure a balanced diet of low-starch, high-fiber foods.
• 🌞 Exercise regularly: Provide daily turnout and exercise to help manage weight and promote overall health.
• 🩺 Work with your vet: Regular checkups are essential for monitoring insulin resistance and preventing laminitis.

By staying vigilant with diet, exercise, and regular vet visits, you can help your horse maintain a healthy weight and prevent the development of EMS or laminitis.

8. Final Thoughts and Advice 🐴❤️

• ⚖️ Prevention is key: Preventing obesity and EMS through diet and exercise is essential for long-term health.
• 🧑‍⚕️ Consult your vet: Work with your veterinarian to develop a balanced feeding plan tailored to your horse’s needs.
• ❤️ Stay proactive: Regular monitoring and early intervention are critical to preventing obesity-related health issues.

Need Help with EMS or Weight Management? Ask A Vet 📲

If your horse is overweight or showing signs of EMS, download the Ask A Vet app for expert advice. Our team, led by Dr Duncan Houston, can help you develop a personalized nutrition and weight management plan to keep your horse healthy and happy. 🐴💡