Veterinary work often feels like working in a smash repair shop, constantly fixing problems after they occur. Common challenges veterinarians and owners face, such as stomach ulcers, colic, tying-up, laminitis, hoof conditions, leg and joint problems in growing horses, and performance issues, can be alleviated or even prevented with proper nutrition. Following a few simple rules can reduce many veterinary conditions and keep our horses stronger and healthier.

Gestational Diabetes in Horses

Just like humans, horses can experience pregnancy diabetes, known as Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). This condition affects 4-12% of women and has an equivalent in mares, increasing their risk of pregnancy-associated laminitis. Both humans and horses experience changes in blood glucose and insulin levels due to this condition.

Horses are naturally reactive animals, often displaying anxious or 'hot' behaviour in response to stress or unfamiliar situations. Understanding and managing these behaviours is crucial for their well-being and performance.

Grasses with oxalate levels greater than 0.5% (i.e., 5g of oxalate/kg of grass) are hazardous and can lead to calcium deficiency, osteoporosis, osteodystrophia fibrosa (ODF), nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism (NSH), and 'bighead'.