Equine Metabolic Syndrome Flashcards
(8 cards)
What is EMS?
A common endocrine disorder in horses characterized by insulin dysregulation
What are the clinical signs?
Obesity, regional fat deposits, and laminitis
Which horses are more at risk?
Horses that are eating too many carbs; “easy keeping” breeds that are extremely energy efficient (so easy to over-consume calories); pasture and forage in Pennsylvania tends to be lush and high in carbs; age range is usually 5-15 years
What is laminitis?
High blood insulin weakens the bond between the hoof and the coffin bone. Both acute and chronic laminitis can be life-threatening.
How is EMS diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires blood work to assess metabolic status
What is the primary goal of treatment for EMS?
Weight loss and weight management
What is the treatment for EMS?
Dietary restriction, increased exercise (unless laminitis is diagnosed), sometimes medications such as Thyro-L (can help to initiate weight loss) and InsulinWise. It is recommended that blood work be rechecked every 6-12 months to monitor response to treatment.
What specific dietary modifications can help EMS?
Limiting or eliminating pasture access by using a grazing muzzle or confining to a drylot; restricting/limiting hay intake to 1.5% of a horse’s body weight; soaking hay for 30 min to decrease starch content; replacing grain with a commercial ration balancer (has the necessary nutrients but not a ton of calories).
