The role of nutrition and feeding in equine weight management

Nutrition and feeding for equine weight management has been well researched over the past decade. However, the focus has stemmed primarily from its association with other clinical issues – weight management commonly being subsequent to issues such as laminitis. Arguably, this research approach is mirrored when it comes to practical management and recognition, typically, a reactionary, as opposed to proactive, approach.

The following review summarises the role of nutrition and feeding in equine management, reviewing recent updates in these fields and highlighting best practice. The importance of designing a tailored weight loss programme, taking into account both the horse and owner, is discussed, along with the identification of a basic process to follow. Compound feed and forage elements of the weight loss ration will then be discussed, in addition to the importance and reported efficacy of feed management practices.

The prevalence of both obese and overweight horses is high (Giles et al, 2014; Potter et al, 2016). However, how this is categorised and reported could be clearer, as defining whether a horse is overweight or obese heavily relies on measures of weight and body condition and the accuracy these infer. While many prevalence studies focus on identifying obese populations (likely because of the association with clinical issues) (Jaqueth et al, 2018; Pollard et al, 2019), when we look at the challenges of equine weight loss, it is arguable that earlier intervention and a focus on overweight, and not necessarily obese, animals may be warranted.