EMS involves insulin problems, easy weight gain and a high laminitis risk, often in native and good-doer types. Manage it with weight loss, a low-sugar diet, restricted grazing and exercise, guided by your vet.
What EMS is
EMS describes horses whose bodies handle insulin poorly, leading to easy weight gain, stubborn fat pads and, crucially, a high risk of laminitis. It is most common in native breeds, ponies and other good doers, and often overlaps with obesity.
Recognise the type
Suspect EMS in a horse that gains weight on very little, carries hard fatty pads on the crest, shoulders and tail head, and has had laminitis or bouts of foot soreness. Your vet can confirm it with blood tests that assess insulin.
Diet is the key
Management centres on lowering sugar and starch and getting the horse lean. Feed low-sugar forage, soak hay, and slow intake with a slow feeder. Avoid cereal-based feeds, and use a low-calorie balancer to keep vitamins and minerals up without the sugar.
Restrict grass and move more
Rich grass is a major trigger, so use strip grazing, a track system or a grazing muzzle, especially in spring and autumn. Increase exercise as the horse is able, since movement improves insulin sensitivity and burns calories.
Work with your vet
EMS horses need a plan and monitoring, since the laminitis risk is serious. Your vet can test insulin, rule out or manage overlapping Cushing’s, and guide diet and exercise. With consistent management, EMS horses can stay sound and healthy.
