Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Equine Metabolic Syndrome Welfare

Equine Metabolic Syndrome causes chronic hormonal disruption that predisposes horses to laminitis and requires lifelong management.

Key Facts

EMS is characterized by insulin dysregulation often combined with regional adiposity
Affected horses and ponies have exaggerated insulin responses to dietary carbohydrates
Low-sugar, low-starch diets are fundamental to EMS management
Exercise improves insulin sensitivity when laminitis does not prevent movement
Native breeds including ponies and cobs are disproportionately affected

Welfare Considerations

EMS causes chronic hormonal disruption and recurrent laminitis that significantly reduces quality of life. Long-term dietary management prevents laminitis episodes and maintains welfare for affected animals. EMS requires lifelong management commitment from owners.

What You Can Do

Consult your vet for insulin testing if your horse or pony has had laminitis or is overweight
Feed low-sugar, low-starch forage and minimize access to rich pasture
Work with an equine nutritionist to formulate an appropriate EMS management diet