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Not only does maternal obesity contribute to decreased conception rates and increased early embryonic death but it also plays into the development of osteochondrosis, according to researchers*.

“Studies conducted in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand show a consistent upward trend in equine obesity. In turn, a mare in excess body condition could cause her foal to develop osteochondrosis,” shared Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., a nutritionist for Kentucky Equine Research.

Osteochondrosis, classified as a developmental orthopedic disorder, occurs in young horses when cartilage does not properly turn to bone during growth. This process, referred to as a “failure of endochondral ossification,” produces bony defects, especially of long bones in joints such as the ankles, stifles, and hocks. Until about seven months of age, some osteochondrosis lesions might spontaneously resolve or heal, whereas others progress and actually cause cartilage flaps on the surface of the joint, a condition then referred to as osteochondritis dissecans. In these advanced cases, young horses have joint swelling, heat, pain, lameness, and poor athletic performance. Surgery typically needs to be performed.

“Osteochondrosis and osteochondritis dissecans occur commonly in young horses and can negatively impact the future athletic careers of affected animals. As such, finding any way possible to minimize the development of osteochondrosis and osteochondritis dissecans would be highly desirable,” Crandell explained.

After following 10 mares with a normal body condition score and 14 mares with excess condition from the time of insemination until the foals were 18 months of age, the research team found a significantly higher risk of developing osteochondrosis in foals from obese mares than normal mares.

“The data show that only one of the 10 foals from mares with a normal body weight had osteochondrosis, whereas 7 of the 13 foals born from obese mares had developed osteochondrosis by 12 months of age,” summarized Crandell.

The researchers identified the fine balance between over- and undernutrition by stating, “Maternal obesity during gestation should then be avoided to protect the foals from its deleterious effects. Since we and others previously demonstrated that undernutrition during pregnancy also affects the development of foals, at least until 24 months of age, it is important to underline that maternal undernutrition should also be avoided.”

“Research also shows that owners often underestimate their horse’s body weight and body condition. Owners are encouraged to seek the help of their veterinarian or a reputable equine nutritionist to ensure a mare is in peak shape during all phases of her reproductive career to optimize both her health and that of her foals,” added Crandell.

Need help getting started? Consult a Kentucky Equine Research nutrition advisor today!

*Robles, M., E. Nouveau, C. Gautier, et al. 2018. Maternal obesity increases insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation and osteochondrosis lesions in foals and yearlings until 18 months of age. PLoS One. 13(1):e0190309.

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