Insulin is a hormone that controls the metabolism of carbohydrates, sugars, fats, and protein, required to transport glucose. It’s a crucial process in a human body. The same holds true for equine insulin resistance. A horse, just like a human, needs more insulin for foods high in carbohydrates, and less while exercising. The amount of blood sugar depends on foods that are eaten, and the body’s ability to produce and use insulin. In cases of equine insulin resistance, feeds such as corn and oats, certain types of grass and hay, commercial mixtures and sweet feeds have high amounts of starch and sugar, and will increase blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less sensitive to insulin’s actions. Particular breeds, such as Arabians, Morgans and ponies, might have insulin resistant tendencies due to genetic adaptations to lack of vegetation. Starchy or sugary grains contribute to this, as can vitamin and mineral deficiencies or lack of exercise. And as with humans, obesity is a common cause. The similarities between human and equine insulin resistance don’t end there. The best treatment for diabetes (weight loss, proper diet and regular exercise) is true for both horses and people.
Equine Insulin Resistance: Symptoms and Indications of Diabetes
Symptoms of equine insulin resistance include excessive drinking and urination, increased appetite, lethargy, and abnormal fatty deposits, particularly along the crest, rump and above the eyes. And while human diabetics develop foot problems due to poor circulation and nerve damage due to high blood sugar, horses have this as well, with a painful condition called laminitis (a separation of bone and the inner hoof). Horses suffering from laminitis may experience anxiety and trembling, will walk tenderly on the damaged foot, and may stand awkwardly, to take pressure off. If your horse is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. The most common cause of laminitis is an excessive intake of sugars and starches (known as non-structural carbohydrates).
Horse Diabetes: Proper Diet and Care
In caring for your diabetic horse, you will notice some similarities with treatment for human diabetes. Weight control is of great importance, and experts suggest that you secure feed sheds so that the horse does not have access to open pastures. Change from starchier grains like corn and oats to low carbohydrate, low sugar feeds of grass or legume mix hay. Bermuda grass is especially recommended, as is beet pulp and soy hulls. Look for the feed’s NSC content (non-structural carbohydrate). There should be a minimum of 30 minutes of daily exercise. If your horse is on a diet, you may wish to include an adaptogen supplement (APF), which is an herbal blend that supports the horse’s ability to adapt to stress. Important minerals to aid insulin sensitivity include magnesium, zinc, chromium, and biotin. Proper hoof care is also essential in the case of equine insulin resistance.
