One of the most common reasons is underestimating the amount of roughage consumed. Hay and grass are often treated as a safe basis for the diet, but they are the main source of energy. Good quality hay can provide significant amounts of calories, especially if it is high in sugars and easily digestible fiber. Access to pasture is even more important. Young grass can be very caloric, and as a result, the horse may absorb more energy than the amount of concentrate feed given.
Another important factor is the horse’s individual metabolism. Some horses, especially primitive breeds (ponies, draft horses), have a natural tendency to efficiently use energy from feed. This means that even small doses of food may lead to the deposition of fat tissue. In such situations, standard feeding regimens often do not work, and the dose must be very precisely tailored to the specific breed of horse.
Metabolic disorders also play an important role. Diseases such as insulin resistance or equine metabolic syndrome cause the body to use energy differently, promoting fat deposition even with limited feed supply. In such cases, weight control is particularly difficult and requires not only a properly balanced diet, but often also consultation with a veterinarian and regular health monitoring.
The role of the level of physical activity cannot also be ignored. A horse that works irregularly or lightly has much lower energy requirements than a horse in training. It often happens that the amount of feed is not reduced as the intensity of work decreases, leading to excess energy and gradual weight gain. Even a small difference between supply and demand, maintained for a long time, can result in significant weight gain.
What’s more, it is worth paying attention to hidden sources of energy in the diet. They are often not taken into account when assessing the nutritional dose. Additives such as delicacies, carrots, apples or various types of meats can significantly increase daily caloric intake, especially if they are served regularly and in larger quantities.
💡FUN FACT: Overweight horses can store fat not only under the skin, but also around internal organs, which increases the risk of serious health problems such as laminitis.
To sum up… Gaining weight, despite a small amount of feed, is most often the result of excess energy, which may come from various, non-obvious sources. It is crucial to carefully analyze the horse’s entire diet, taking into account its work level, metabolism and possible health problems. Conscious nutrition and regular condition assessment are the basis for keeping your horse in good shape!