Equine Metabolic Syndrome: Recognising and Managing EMS in Your Horse
Some horses seem to hold on to weight more easily than others, especially on rich grass. This is often the case with native breeds like the Irish Draught, Connemara, and Welsh ponies. Combined with the way we care for and manage them, this can sometimes lead to issues such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).
What is Equine Metabolic Syndrome?
Equine Metabolic Syndrome in horses is a disease that occurs when the fat deposits, both externally and internally, become too great. This excess fat doesn’t have a great relationship with insulin in the blood. As a consequence, the body has to produce more insulin to allow the circulating sugar in the blood to gain entry into the animal’s cells.
Insulin is essential for normal body function, but at high levels it can be harmful. In all species, excessive insulin can damage blood vessels, and in horses, this often triggers laminitis. Laminitis is one of the leading causes of death in UK horses, responsible for 10% more fatalities than colic or field injuries.
Common Signs of Equine Metabolic Syndrome
Recognising equine metabolic syndrome symptoms is the first step toward effective management. Look for these key indicators:
- Obesity: This is the primary sign. Horses with EMS often have a cresty neck, fatty deposits over the tail head, and fat pads behind the shoulders and above the eyes.
- Recurrent Laminitis: Horses with EMS are prone to frequent and unexplained bouts of laminitis, especially during periods of lush grass growth.
- Poor Performance: Affected horses may show signs of lethargy or unwillingness to work.
Risk Factors: Who’s Most at Risk?
While any horse can develop Equine Metabolic Syndrome, certain factors increase the risk. Native breeds, ponies, and donkeys are particularly susceptible due to their efficient metabolism. Inactive horses and those with a history of obesity are also at high risk. Genetics plays a significant role, as does a diet high in non-structural carbohydrates (sugars and starches).
The Link Between EMS and Laminitis
The connection between Equine Metabolic Syndrome in horses and Laminitis is the most serious aspect of this condition. The high levels of insulin in the bloodstream compromise the blood flow to the sensitive laminae within the hoof.
This leads to inflammation, pain, and the breakdown of the laminar connections that hold the pedal bone in place, causing rotation or sinking within the hoof capsule. This is why managing EMS is so critical for preventing this devastating disease.
How Can We Diagnose Equine Metabolic Syndrome?
Diagnosis typically involves a medical examination which is a combination of a physical exam, assessing body condition and fat deposits, and blood tests to measure insulin and glucose levels.
We may also recommend an oral sugar test to get a more accurate picture of your horse’s insulin regulation.
Managing Equine Metabolic Syndrome
Managing EMS is a lifelong commitment that can be highly effective with the right plan. Key strategies include:
- Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a high-fiber, low-sugar, and low-starch diet. Soaking hay can help reduce its sugar content.
- Regular Exercise: Consistent exercise helps with weight loss and improves the body’s sensitivity to insulin.
- Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor your horse’s condition and adjust the management plan as needed.
A Equine Metabolic Syndrome Case Study: Meet Ruby
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) can be overwhelming, but with the right plan, horses can thrive. Ruby, a horse that had multiple laminitic episodes, was struggling with EMS when she came to Little Rock Equine Vets. Her owners were running out of ideas to try to manage her weight and diet.
After an evaluation of Ruby’s diet and exercise, we found that although her owners thought she was on a low-sugar diet, her feed had a higher sugar content than she needed.
Her exercise was also minimal, consisting of two gentle 45-minute rides on weekends. We conducted blood tests to check her ACTH and insulin levels, which confirmed she had insulin resistance from EMS, but not PPID (Cushing’s).
Rather than starting with medication, we first focused on a “move more, eat less” approach. We created a tailored nutrition and exercise plan for Ruby, tracking her progress with weekly weigh-ins and blood tests every six weeks.
Within three months, Ruby reached a healthy weight, and after just six months, her insulin levels were back to normal.
This case shows that while medication is an option, a structured management plan can be more effective for long-term health in some cases
Catch It Early, Manage It Well
If you’re worried your horse might be showing signs of EMS, don’t wait. Speak to one of our experienced vets. We’re here to help you create a plan that works for both you and your horse. Your horse’s health is our top priority.