Skip to content
Search Library
thumbnail

Though it is not nearly as common in equines as in humans, diabetes mellitus (type 1 or insulin dependent diabetes) is sometimes found in horses. Typical signs are weight loss, frequent urination, and excessive thirst. These signs may be found in horses with other metabolic conditions, and bloodwork can help to separate diabetic horses from those with a different problem.

Horses with diabetes mellitus will always have high levels of blood glucose and may have high, low, or normal levels of insulin. A recent meal can result in a high blood glucose level, so the blood should be drawn when the horse has been fasted rather than fed, and confirmation may require several blood tests at different times.

Diabetes mellitus can have more than one cause. Type 1 results from a decrease in insulin being produced by beta cells in the pancreas, and low levels of insulin are always found. It is seen much less often than type 2 (non-insulin dependent), which combines a gradual onset of insulin resistance and potential failure of insulin production by the pancreas. Insulin levels may initially be high but may eventually fall to a low concentration combined with high blood glucose. Type 2 diabetes is frequently associated with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID).

In addition to pergolide therapy for PPID, these cases can be helped by dietary management. Affected horses will get along best on a ration with low starch content and good-quality fermentable fiber. Free-choice grazing and grass hay can be supplemented with molasses-free beet pulp, and vegetable oil can be added to the diet unless the horse’s triglyceride level is elevated. Though human diabetes is often treated with insulin injections, this therapy is rarely used in horses unless they have confirmed type 1 diabetes mellitus.

If you suspect your horse has diabetes, consult a veterinarian and an equine nutritionist to get a diagnosis and management guidelines.

X

Subscribe to Equinews and get the latest equine nutrition and health news delivered to your inbox. Sign up for free now!