Volume 3 Issue 1

SENIOR CITIZENS

In this volume, I will be discussing senior horses.  With advances in Veterinary medicine, Ferrier science, nutrition, and exercise programs, our equine friends are living longer.  The result is that we are now facing a barrage of “New” problems associated with the senior horse.

Some overlapping of symptoms can create a great deal of confusion as to what your horse may be suffering from and exactly how to deal with it.  In the long run, it is always preferable to have your Vet do some diagnostics to determine the correct problem and treatment.

Three of the senior problems that we have seen a dramatic increase in over the last few years, are; Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction [PPID], commonly known as Cushing’s Disease, Equine Metabolic Syndrome [EMS], and Insulin Resistance [IR].

INSULIN RESISTANCE

The main symptoms of IR are sluggishness, easy weight gain, or weight loss, a cresty thick neck, and fat pads throughout the body.  There can also be hoof problems, such as laminitis.  We are finding that more horses may be genetically predisposed to it, than actually show it. Some things that we find may trigger the onset of IR include high carbohydrate or high fat diets, mineral deficiencies, lack of exercise, obesity, and stress.  Sound familiar?

Insulin is produced in the horse’s pancreas and is needed to help control levels of glucose [sugar] in the blood. Because insulin and blood sugar metabolism may not be functioning properly, avoid feeding traditional grains, treats, or pasture.  These can be high in sugar and starches.  Instead, feed a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement, and a low sugar/high fiber feed made especially for senior horses.  Feed that is high in starch and sugar leads to spikes in the blood glucose and insulin levels, and consequently insulin resistance.

If you are suspicious that this may be the case, have your Vet conduct a complete physical examination and routine blood work.  At the same time

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ALWAYS REMEMBER…WHEN IN DOUBT….CALL YOUR VET

© Wendy Teddiman, Trainer (wen-dacres@cox.net)   (http://wen-D-Acres.com)  (http://Shop.Wen-D-Acres.com)  949-357-8040