Nutrition and Exercise in the Management of Horses and Ponies at High Risk for Laminitis

Obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and hyperinsulinemia are risk factors for laminitis in horses and ponies. Alterations in management, especially diet and physical activity, can be helpful in the management of these risk factors. Caloric restriction, ideally combined with increased physical activity, to promote weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity is indicated for the management of obese animals. Strict control of dietary NSC through the elimination of grains and sweet feeds and by restricted access to NSC-rich pastures is recommended for insulin-resistant animals, regardless of whether they are obese or not. Medical treatment with levothyroxine or metformin may be indicated in obese or insulin-resistant animals that do not respond to conservative management.