Equine Metabolic Syndrome: Welfare and Management

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a hormonal condition in horses and ponies predisposing to laminitis, obesity, and chronic discomfort, requiring specific dietary and exercise management for affected individuals.

Key Facts

EMS is characterised by insulin dysregulation, regional adiposity, and predisposition to pasture-associated laminitis
Native pony breeds including Welsh, Dartmoor, Exmoor, and New Forest are disproportionately affected
Blood testing for resting and dynamic insulin allows diagnosis before clinical laminitis develops
Grazing restriction, measured forage, and regular exercise are the cornerstones of management
EMS is distinct from PPID but both conditions increase laminitis risk, particularly when concurrent

Welfare Considerations

Horses and ponies with EMS face chronic welfare compromise from recurrent laminitis episodes that cause severe foot pain and cumulative structural damage. Between acute episodes, baseline foot discomfort may be present without obvious lameness. Obesity associated with EMS causes musculoskeletal strain and metabolic inflammation. Many EMS cases are managed suboptimally because owners do not recognise the condition or understand the degree to which grazing restriction and dietary management are necessary. Proactive testing and management before laminitis develops is the ideal welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Test native ponies and overweight horses for insulin dysregulation annually, especially before spring grazing
Implement grazing restriction using track systems or restricted grazing paddocks for EMS-affected animals
Work with an equine nutritionist to design an appropriate low-starch, low-sugar ration
Ensure regular gentle exercise, adjusted to the individual's condition score and laminitis history