Obesity is becoming a significant health issue for horses around the world, with estimates suggesting that between 31% to 45% of certain equine populations are classified as obese. A horse is generally considered obese when it has a body condition score (BCS) greater than 7 on the Henneke 9-point scoring system. You can learn about BCS in our article (is my horse fit?).
Obesity poses serious health risks for horses, including:
Arthritis: Painful inflammation and swelling of joints that worsens over time.
Respiratory Problems: Difficulty breathing can arise due to excess weight.
Poor Fertility: Weight issues can negatively affect reproductive capabilities.
Metabolic Syndrome: This condition predisposes horses to laminitis, a painful hoof disorder.
•Laminitis: This is damage to the sensitive laminae tissue in the hoof. When the laminae weaken, the pedal bone can rotate within the hoof, leading to lameness and potentially permanent damage.
Additionally, obesity can impair your horse's performance and overall soundness, making it crucial to address this issue.
Horses typically become overweight when they consume more energy than they expend through activity and maintenance over an extended period. Several factors can influence a horse's risk of gaining excess weight, including:
Feed Provision: The type and amount of feed provided.
Breed Genetics: Certain breeds may be more prone to weight gain.
Dominance: Social hierarchies can impact feeding habits.
Age: Older horses may have slower metabolisms.
Workload: Less active horses are at higher risk of obesity.
Management Practices: How horses are cared for can affect their weight.
• Season: Seasonal changes can influence activity levels and feeding. In one study, the prevalence of obesity was 35% at the end of summer compared to 27% at the end of winter
Injury or Stall Rest: Reduced mobility due to injury can lead to weight gain.