How do I control EMS and IR in my horse?

Equine Metabolic Syndrome cannot be “cured,” but it can be managed with a low sugar/starch diet and exercise. The veterinarian will put obese horses on a very restrictive diet until they lose weight and are less of a laminitis risk. This means no grazing, no grain, and only 1.5% of their current body weight in low sugar/starch hay (i.e. less than 10-12% NSC or Non-Structural Carbohydrates). Once the horse has lost weight, the diet can be less restrictive (for example, grazing with a muzzle). If the horse does not lose weight, the vet may prescribe medication. During this weight loss period, it is very important for owners to stay in close contact with their veterinarian so the horse loses weight at a safe, controlled rate.

Ideally, the hay is analyzed for sugar/starch content. Since that’s not always possible, experts recommend soaking hay in cold water for 60 minutes to reduce the NSC level. Hay soaking has also been shown to reduce calories and promote weight loss1. Feeding a low sugar/starch ration balancer or multi-vitamin/mineral helps make sure the horse still gets his daily nutrients.

Studies show exercise improves insulin resistance and promotes weight loss in horses. However, horses with active laminitis or still recovering should not be worked until they are sound and the veterinarian gives the okay. The vet will also recommend the best exercise program for the individual horse depending on their soundness, fitness, and other factors. The important thing is to start gradually -- a few minutes at a walk – and slowly build up to trotting and cantering for longer and longer time.

Equine Metabolic Syndrome is a manageable condition in horses that doesn’t have to end in laminitis. An honest evaluation of the horse’s body condition score, attention to diet, and proper exercise can help prevent this potentially career-ending condition.

1 Considerations for the use of restricted, soaked grass hay diets to promote weight loss in the management of equine metabolic syndrome and obesity. Argo CM, Dugdale AHA, McGowan CM. Vet J. 2015 Nov;206(2):170-177.