Nutritional Considerations for Horses with Endocrine Disorders

As a species, horses have a longer average lifespan now than ever before. Due to advances in veterinary and nutritional management, a protracted lifespan often equates to an extended working life. Once their usefulness ebbs and retirement looms, many horses retain value as companions, both to other horses and humans. Because of this, interest in disorders that affect aged horses has grown among horse owners and veterinarians, with keen attention given to endocrine diseases.

Recent research efforts have amplified the knowledge of endocrine disorders, though certain aspects of these diseases remain elusive, such as gold standard diagnostic tests. As such, diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and current diagnostic procedures. Shifts in how horses are managed, including any necessary changes to the diet, can be implemented once a diagnosis is made.

The most common diagnosed endocrine disorders are pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Thoughtful management strategies, including careful attention to nutrition and exercise requirements, can provide some relief, especially when paired with appropriate medications.