Overweight / Obesity
Overweight is widespread in leisure horses and not a cosmetic issue: excess body fat is metabolically active and raises the risk of insulin dysregulation and laminitis. The Body Condition Score (BCS) helps to assess condition objectively.
Priority · vet & management
The focus is on energy restriction, pasture/hay management (e.g. hay nets, controlling the roughage amount) and more exercise; with laminitis signs or suspected EMS/PPID, veterinary clarification is indicated. Compounds are only an adjunctive building block.
Possible causes
- · energy surplus from too much/too rich feed and pasture
- · lack of exercise
- · easy-keeper breeds/ponies with a thrifty metabolism
- · overestimated concentrate need with light work
Supportive compounds · supplementary feed, not medication
Prevention
Regular BCS monitoring, a demand-appropriate ration, managed pasture access and consistent exercise keep weight in the healthy range and lower the laminitis risk.
Equiterna's take
Equiterna views overweight as a central lever for insulin, hoof and joints — the most important lever remains feeding and exercise, not the supplement.
Usage note
This content is for information and education. It does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your horse shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian.
Equiterna is an intermediary platform for equine knowledge, marketplace and tools — not a veterinary-medicines dealer, veterinary practice or pharmacy. Compound information is study-attributed and free of healing claims. Legal framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/6 / TAMG (DE/AT), Feed Regulation (EC) 767/2009, FEI Prohibited Substances List, HWG.