How to manage Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and obesity

[@karenmusilova3772]

Great advice, although I've heard conflicting views regarding the following: - Exercise: many vets say that Laminitis should be treated with box rest, however some have also said that if they are showing early signs (before foundering) of Laminitis or an EMS 'episode', exercise should be continued in order to avoid foundering/severe symptoms. - Grazing: I've read that studies found that preventing ponies from having access to grass altogether caused stress, which in turn triggered Laminitis. So with that in mind, surely sensible, restricted grazing should be recommended rather than no grass whatsoever? Track systems, muzzles etc are surely better than depriving them completely, both from a mental and physical standpoint? - Soaking hay: some people say that hay should be soaked for 16 hours, others say it should be no more than 1 hour, others say various other timings... But how do we know which is the correct answer? And how do we know that soaking for so many hours isn't causing invisible bacteria to build up? I am by no means criticising this advice, I am always interested to hear other people's views and I'm by no means an expert, but as the owner of 2 Laminitic/EMS ponies, I find it incredibly frustrating that there is so much conflicting info out there!

[@thisirishcobcan]

If only it was that easy though. If an animal goes without good for a significantly long time, then you risk ulcers. Horses are grazing animals, so we have to figure a way of giving a horse access to low sugar/starch forage, controlled exercise and natural movement to sustain weight loss and boost welfare.