Managing Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally

Equine Metabolic Syndrome has become increasingly common among our beloved horses, and as caring owners, we often feel overwhelmed when faced with this diagnosis. At Equell, we understand how EMS affects horses and have developed nutritional blends that can support their wellbeing alongside veterinary care.

What Is Equine Metabolic Syndrome?

EMS represents a collection of metabolic abnormalities that affect how horses process glucose and insulin. Unlike humans with diabetes, horses with EMS typically show three key characteristics: insulin resistance, abnormal fat deposits (particularly around the crest, shoulders, and rump), and an increased risk of laminitis.

We've observed that horses with EMS struggle to regulate their blood sugar effectively. When they consume carbohydrates, their bodies require more insulin than normal to manage glucose levels. This insulin resistance creates a cascade of problems that can significantly impact their quality of life.

The condition often develops gradually, making early detection challenging. Many owners first notice changes in their horse's body condition, particularly unusual fat deposits that don't respond to traditional diet and exercise modifications.

Recognising the Signs

Through our years working with horse owners, vets and equine nutritionists, we've learned that EMS symptoms can be subtle initially. The most obvious sign is regional adiposity, where fat accumulates in specific areas regardless of the horse's overall body condition. The cresty neck is often the first area owners notice, but fat deposits can also appear behind the shoulders, around the tailhead, and above the eyes.

Insulin resistance, whilst invisible, creates significant internal challenges. Horses may seem lethargic or lack their usual enthusiasm for work. Some develop a dull coat or show delayed shedding patterns. These seemingly minor changes often indicate the metabolic struggles occurring beneath the surface; struggles which occur long before any signs are shown.

Laminitis represents the most serious complication of EMS. This painful condition affects the sensitive structures within the hoof, and horses with EMS face an increased risk of developing laminitis episodes, particularly when exposed to high-sugar feeds or lush pasture.

Natural Management Strategies

Our approach to supporting horses with EMS focuses on working with their natural physiology rather than against it. We believe that horses evolved to thrive on diverse plant materials, and modern management practices should respect these evolutionary adaptations.

Dietary Management Forms the Foundation

We recommend starting with a low-sugar, low-starch diet that mimics what horses would naturally consume. This means providing good-quality hay as the primary forage source, ideally tested for low sugar and starch content. Many owners are surprised to learn that some hays contain surprisingly high sugar levels, particularly if cut during peak growing conditions. Soaking hay can help to remove excess sugar (fructans) from hay but it does also result in leaching of other essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

Pasture management becomes crucial for EMS horses. Restricted grazing during high-sugar periods is advisable, typically early morning and late afternoon. Strip grazing, using grazing muzzles or turning out on a grass free track can help horses enjoy turnout whilst limiting their intake of sugar-rich grass.

Supporting Digestive Health

The gut microbiome plays a vital role in metabolic health. We've incorporated this understanding into our supplement formulations, recognising that diverse gut bacteria support better overall health outcomes. Our UltraMet supplement contains multiple plant fibres designed to promote microbiome diversity, supporting the gut environment that horses need for optimal metabolic function.

Prebiotics help maintain beneficial bacteria populations in the hindgut. These natural compounds feed the good bacteria whilst discouraging harmful microorganisms from establishing themselves.

Exercise and Movement

Regular, controlled exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity in horses with EMS. We recommend starting slowly with horses that have been sedentary, gradually building their fitness levels. Even hand-walking provides benefits for horses unable to perform more intensive exercise.

The key lies in consistency rather than intensity. Daily movement, even if limited to paddock turnout, supports better metabolic function than sporadic intensive exercise sessions.

Our Science-Based Approach

At Equell, we've developed our supplement range specifically with conditions like EMS in mind. Every product we create is suitable for prone individuals and those managing metabolic conditions. This wasn't accidental, it reflects our understanding that modern horses need targeted nutritional support to thrive in today's management systems.

Our formulations are designed to work alongside restricted diets. We understand that EMS horses often have limited feeding options, so our supplements can be added to any base feed without concerns about significantly increasing sugar or starch intake and the small, highly palatable serve makes them ideal for adding to little feeds.

We utilise natural, plant-based ingredients because we believe horses process these most effectively. Each ingredient is selected for specific health benefits, not as cheap fillers or unnecessary additives.

Creating a Comprehensive Management Plan

Managing EMS successfully requires a holistic approach that addresses multiple aspects of horse care. We work with horse owners to understand that no single intervention will solve all problems, but combining several strategies creates the best outcomes.

Regular veterinary monitoring helps track progress and adjust management strategies as needed. Blood tests can measure insulin levels and glucose responses, providing objective data about how well the management plan is working.

Environmental management often requires significant changes. This might mean altering turnout schedules, changing hay suppliers, or investing in slow-feeding systems. These changes can feel overwhelming initially, but they become routine parts of care that significantly benefit the horse's health.

Building Long-Term Success

We've found that successful EMS management requires patience and consistency. Metabolic changes don't happen overnight, and horses need time to respond to dietary and lifestyle modifications. Setting realistic expectations helps owners stay committed to the management plan during the initial adjustment period.

Many owners report feeling more confident about managing their horse's condition once they understand the underlying principles. Knowledge about why certain feeds should be avoided or why exercise timing matters helps owners make informed decisions daily.

Supporting Your Horse's Journey

Our commitment extends beyond providing quality supplements. We believe in supporting horse owners throughout their EMS management journey. The condition can feel isolating, but understanding that many horses live comfortable, active lives with proper management provides hope and motivation.

We've designed our products to integrate seamlessly into EMS management plans. Whether supporting digestive health, maintaining calm behaviour during dietary restrictions, or supporting overall metabolic wellness, our range addresses the multiple challenges EMS horses face.

Our money-back guarantee reflects our confidence in our formulations and our understanding that horse owners need assurance when investing in their horse's health. Managing EMS involves ongoing costs, and we believe our products should demonstrate clear value.

The journey of managing EMS naturally requires dedication, but the reward of seeing horses comfortable and thriving makes every effort worthwhile. With proper support, including targeted nutritional supplementation, most horses with EMS can maintain good quality of life and continue enjoying their partnership with their owners.