Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) in Horses: Symptoms, Diet, Tests & Safe Support
EMS and insulin resistance are rising across easy-keeper types. Here’s how to spot the signs, work with your vet on diagnostics, build a low-NSC diet and exercise plan, prevent laminitis, and choose sugar-free support that fits metabolic horses.
What is Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)?
Equine Metabolic Syndrome is a metabolic disorder defined by insulin resistance—the body’s cells don’t respond normally to insulin. Circulating insulin and blood sugar rise, which predisposes horses to laminitis, a painful and potentially devastating hoof condition.
EMS is often confused with PPID (Cushing’s disease). They’re different diseases, but an individual horse can have both, requiring careful coordination with your veterinarian.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Breed/easy keepers: Ponies, Morgans, Arabians, Iberian/Spanish types are over-represented.
- Over-conditioning: Obesity and regional fat (cresty neck, tailhead pads) increase insulin resistance.
- Dietary sugar load: High-NSC feeds (grains, sweet feeds, lush pasture) challenge insulin control.
- Low activity: Sedentary horses are at greater risk than those with consistent movement.
Common Symptoms
- Regional adiposity (cresty neck, tailhead, behind shoulders)
- Difficulty losing weight despite “dieting”
- Recurrent or chronic hoof soreness/laminitis
- Abnormal fat distribution even in otherwise average BCS
Diagnosing EMS (and differentiating from PPID)
Core Vet Workup
- Body condition and fat-pad assessment
- Fasting insulin and glucose
- Oral Sugar Test (OST) or other dynamic testing to assess insulin response
Rule-Outs & Overlap
- Older horses may be screened for PPID (Cushing’s).
- EMS and PPID can coexist—management plans must account for both.
Pro Tip Keep notes and lab values in one place. Track fasting insulin/glucose and OST results over time to see trends as you adjust diet and exercise.
Management: Diet, Exercise & Weight
1) Low-NSC Forage First
- Choose tested hay with NSC typically <10–12%.
- Soak hay (in cool water ~30–60 minutes) to reduce sugars when needed.
- Remove grain/sweet feed; avoid high-sugar treats.
- Use a ration balancer/mineral to cover vitamins and minerals without extra calories.
2) Smart Turnout
- Limit or time turnout when pasture sugars are highest (rapid growth, cool sunny mornings).
- Consider a well-fitted grazing muzzle if turnout is needed.
3) Exercise That Builds Sensitivity
- If not actively laminitic, schedule regular, moderate work (e.g., 20–40 minutes walking/trotting).
- Consistency matters more than intensity for metabolic benefit.
4) Gradual, Tracked Weight Loss
- Aim for slow, sustainable change—avoid crash dieting.
- Reassess BCS (Body Condition Score) monthly and adjust ration accordingly.
Laminitis Prevention
- Keep hooves on a strict farrier schedule for balance/support.
- Manage pasture sugars and total NSC intake.
- Watch for subtle signs: foot heat, pulse, short stride on turns, reluctance to move.
- Work closely with your vet at the first hint of soreness.
Sugar-Free Electrolytes & Topical Support
Hydration Without Sugar
Electrolytes help replace minerals lost in sweat—but many blends include sugar. For metabolic horses, choose sugar-free:
Hydro-Lyte™ is formulated without added sugars, supporting hydration plans for insulin-resistant and EMS-managed horses.
Comfort That’s Show-Smart
Sensation-free topical support helps keep work comfortable, especially during conditioning:
EMS & Insulin Resistance — FAQ
What is Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)?
EMS is a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and elevated laminitis risk. It’s common in easy-keeper types and influenced by diet, body condition, and activity.
How is EMS different from PPID (Cushing’s disease)?
EMS tends to affect younger to middle-aged horses and centers on insulin resistance. PPID is a pituitary disorder in older horses. Horses may have both, and management should address each condition.
Which tests diagnose EMS?
Vets use fasting insulin/glucose and dynamic testing like the Oral Sugar Test (OST). Older horses may undergo endocrine testing to evaluate for PPID.
What diet works best for insulin-resistant horses?
Low-NSC forage first (often <10–12% NSC), no grain/sweet feed, and a quality ration balancer. Soak hay as needed to lower sugars and avoid high-sugar treats.
Are electrolytes safe for EMS horses?
Yes, provided they’re sugar-free. Hydro-Lyte™ supports hydration without added sugars, fitting insulin-resistant management plans.
Can I exercise my EMS horse?
If not laminitic, moderate, regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and supports steady weight loss. Build gradually with your vet’s guidance.
How do I reduce laminitis risk long-term?
Control NSC intake, manage turnout, maintain a farrier schedule, and watch closely for early foot soreness. Act quickly with your vet if signs appear.
Educational note: This article is for general information and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
