Much like human diabetes, Equine Metabolic Sydrome (EMS) is a disorder associated with an inability to regulate blood insulin levels. Affected horses commonly show increased regional fat deposition and a reduced ability to lose weight. EMS often predisposes horses to Laminitis.
Find out more about EMS here.
Callie, Jayne Alexander’s mare suffers from EMS. You can read more about her in our blog.
PSSM is a disorder that causes muscle cramping in horses from abnormal sugar storage in the muscles. Insulin is the hormone that controls blood sugar levels and PSSM horses tend to be more sensitive to insulin. Insulin can worsen PSSM because it causes the body to produce more sugar.
Find out more about PSSM here.
Cushing’s disease can cause high insulin levels as horses become ineffective at processing high sugar levels.
Cushing’s disease can also cause Laminitis, a crippling condition resulting in inflammation of the hoof, making it extremely painful to walk. In serious cases, ponies are put down to end their suffering.
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