1. Insulin resistance. This is a term used to describe horses and ponies that do not respond normally to the effects of the hormone insulin.
“Weight loss is one of the most important ways to help manage horses or ponies with insulin resistance,” advises Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., a nutritionist at Kentucky Equine Research.
Offer hay-based diets (at approximately 1.5% of body weight rather than 2–2.5% body weight) and have the hay analyzed to ensure the hay contains less than 8% water-soluble carbohydrates (sugars). Hay soaking might also be beneficial to decrease the sugar content of the forage. Do not offer high-sugar treats or concentrates. Monitor fat deposits, body weight, and body condition regularly and ensure your horse exercises for approximately 30 minutes per day..