Equine metabolic syndrome in UK native ponies and cobs is highly prevalent with modifiable risk factors.
Authors: Carslake Harry B, Pinchbeck Gina L, McGowan Catherine M
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Equine Metabolic Syndrome in UK Native Ponies and Cobs: What the Numbers Tell Us Nearly one in four UK native ponies and cobs examined across England and Wales—23.3% of 354 animals—met diagnostic criteria for equitable metabolic syndrome (EMS), making this a significant welfare concern in these breeds. Carslake and colleagues conducted a cross-sectional study involving clinical examinations, oral glucose testing, and owner questionnaires across 64 properties (studs, livery yards and riding schools) to identify both prevalence and modifiable risk factors. Beyond the expected associations with obesity and age, the research revealed that sedentary work, reduced summer pasture turnout, female sex, and particularly a history of laminitis in the past five years (which conferred 14.4 times greater odds of EMS) were critical risk markers. Welsh Section A ponies showed the highest risk profile compared to other native breeds, whilst clinical signs including hoof growth rings and pronounced supraorbital fat (scored 3/3) were notably more common in affected animals. For practitioners managing these breeds, the modifiable nature of key risk factors—particularly reducing obesity, increasing turnout time, and encouraging more active work—offers concrete intervention points to lower laminitis incidence in metabolically susceptible individuals.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Obesity and sedentary lifestyle are modifiable risk factors; increasing exercise and pasture time can reduce EMS risk and laminitis incidence in susceptible ponies
- •Screen female native ponies and cobs aged 3-14 years with a history of laminitis for EMS, as they carry substantially elevated risk
- •Monitor hoof growth rings and supraorbital fat scores as clinical indicators of EMS; these are more frequent in affected animals and warrant further investigation
Key Findings
- •EMS prevalence in UK native ponies and cobs is 23.3% (95% CI 17.9-29.8%), making it highly prevalent in this population
- •Female ponies, sedentary animals, and obese individuals had significantly higher risk of EMS diagnosis
- •Animals with laminitis history in the last 5 years were 14.4 times more likely to have EMS (95% CI 5.9-35.3)
- •Shorter periods on summer pasture and reduced pasture access were associated with increased EMS risk