TheEquine |

TheEquine |: "Evolution has produced an animal that is deigned to store food in good times for periods of scarcity and live off its fat reserves during times of famine. In the UK however the winters are unlikely to be as bad or prolonged for this to be necessary. Obesity in domestic horses is not a good idea as it means the animal is carrying extra weight, making it less fit and able to do the job we want it to do, whether that is hacking, jumping or driving.
The most common problems resulting as a consequence of obesity include
Laminitis (it should be noted however, that sudden changes in intake can also cause laminitis, so a thin horse gorging on fresh grass could also be at risk).
Hyperlipaemia – a serious condition, in which the liver become so full of fat it stops working.
Joint problems and premature arthritis
Colic
Less agility
More proneness to heat stress
Decreased reproductive efficiency
A horse in good condition should have:
A firm neck without a crest
Ribs that are covered but can still be felt
A backbone that feels knobbly, but does not have a crease
A rounded rump, but you should still be able to feel the pelvic bones."