It can be difficult to tell the difference between fat and muscle when looking at a horse or pony,but identifying them from one another is essential in preventing our much-loved equines becoming overweight.A horses body contains approximately 700 muscles which they rely on to control their movement, but they can also contain a large amount of fat tissue. This can cause major health problems, including laminitis and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). MuscleThe difference between muscle and fat is that muscle is a distinct organ that grows around the horses body and each one has a name for the area in which it is found. Every horse will have the same muscles in the same places, but they will vary in size depending on how much they are used. So, for example, the topline muscles along the top of the neck and the back, if used correctly with the horse working in the correct outline, will increase in size. A horse that works in a hollow outline will increase the size of the muscles underneath its neck, and as a result under-use and lose the muscle mass in the topline muscles.There is variation with breed as well. Some breeds are genetically programmed to have bigger muscles in certain places than others.FatFat is less distinct and fat deposits tend to vary more between individuals. Again, there will be some genetic, breed-specific programming on how those individuals lay down fat, but on the whole, it is a lot less rigid in how distinct it is.However, you do have obvious places where fat tends to build up easily in horses, such as the crest, the rump and the covering over the withers and the ribs. Fat horses also carry a lot of intra-abdominal fat, which is fat tissue that sits in between all the organs in the abdomen.How to tell the differenceTelling the difference between fat and muscle can be tricky, but the location, size and shape of the tissue you are feeling will give you some indication.The other important thing is that muscle is able to contract and relax, so it can be either toned or flaccid (soft). Muscle should look and feel firmer, and you should be able to feel it contract when its under tension and wobble when its relaxed.Fat, on the other hand, will never be able to do that. Fat tissue can feel soft, unless its become over-filled with fattissue when it then turns hard and almost like cellulitis lumpy, bumpy fat that will ripple as it moves.On the whole, muscle is heavier than fat. It is denser with more tissue and more collagen, and will have blood vessels and nerves.Fat tissue is largely fat stored in cells. There is a blood supply to fat, but not a lot else.Muscle under fatHorses who are overweight will have muscle under the fat. If they are kept in work, the muscles will probably stay the same size that they were, so any weight loss from dieting a horse will be from fat loss.You should start to see those fat deposits at least, the visible ones on the outside of the body become smaller and softer. That is why it is important when body condition scoring horses that you not only look at them, but you also feel them, and do it over a period of time, because then youll start to see the changes.Gaining weightIf a horse doesnt have a huge amount of fat tissue and is being worked harder, then it will likely start to put weight on. This is much like a young horse who is growing and developing musculature after being broken in and starting their early training they will put down more muscle mass and gain weight.This type of weight gain will be a lot more subtle and much slower and steadier than a horse gaining weight through an increase in calories but not work, and laying down fat tissue. A horse who is getting fat will start developing crest fat, shoulder fat, rib fat and rump fat, which you can see and feel.You might now stop feeling the ribs under the skin because the fat is sitting between the skin and the bone, so there are lots of signs that fat is causing that weight gain.Intrabdominal fatAn important point is that the intrabdominal fat, which sits in between the organs in the abdomen, is sometimes laid down first before a horse starts to look visibly fat on the outside. This means they start to get a slightly bigger abdominal appearance first.Once those fat reserves become saturated, only then will these individuals start putting down visible fat issues that we can see on the outside.Thats why, when horses have lost the visible fat, they can still have intrabdominal fat. Fat cells that are full of fat arent just sitting there doing nothing. They are acting like a little organ in the horses system, releasing cytokines, which are cellular chemicals, into the bloodstream, causing insulin dysregulation and subsequently laminitis.Have you heard about Your Horses #FitNotFat campaign? Equine obesity is an enormous welfare problem and were on a mission to provide owners and riders with the knowledge, skills and information you need to keep your horse in tip-top health. It could be life saving! Findout moreMain image ShutterstockRelated contentThis is how being fat affects a horses bodyDr David Marlin explains how to ride a horse so that they burn more caloriesLaminitis warning after unpredictable weather leads to spike in casesOwner whose obese ponies lost 340kg between them warns against unqualified experts on social mediaThe post Is your horse fat or is it muscle? Equine vet explains the difference appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction Cannabidiol (CBD) oil popular in equine behavior management for anxiety, stress, pain. Explores scientific evidence, safety, and value for horse care companies. Understanding CBD and Horses CBD is a non-intoxicating compound from hemp. Interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Benefits: reduce anxiety, relieve pain, promote muscle relaxation. Scientific Insights 2021 study: 100 mg of CBD daily reduced anxiety in horses. Trial: 250 mg of CBD improved behavior and pain in a mare. Doses up to 2 mg/kg found tolerable, few adverse effects. Cost-Benefit Analysis CBD reduces anxiety and pain behaviors with few adverse effects. Varied product quality impacts cost and efficacy. CBD prohibited in some equestrian competitions. Offers holistic benefits: improved sleep, comfort, reduced inflammation. Practical Guidance Consult veterinarians skilled in equine CBD use. Select high-quality, third-party tested products. Start with low dosage; monitor for changes and side effects. Conclusion CBD oil is a promising, safe supplement for equine anxiety and stress. Continued research needed for optimal dosing and long-term safety. Engage with veterinary professionals to harness CBD responsibly. Exploring the Efficacy and Cost-Benefit of CBD Oil for Equine Behavior Management As horse owners increasingly seek out natural supplements to improve the wellbeing of their equine companions, Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has stood out for its potential to manage behavioral issues. Endorsed for alleviating anxiety, stress, and pain, the popularity of CBD oil continues to rise among equine enthusiasts. The aim here is to delve into the scientific evidence backing CBD's benefits, its safety profile for horses, and its value proposition for equine behavior managementresonating with companies like Just Horse Riders that provide comprehensive solutions for horse care. Understanding CBD Oil and Its Mechanism in Horses CBD is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the hemp plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory network present in all mammals, including horses. Through modulation of neurotransmitter activity, CBD is believed to reduce anxiety, relieve pain, and promote muscle relaxationessential for managing equine behavioral troubles. This approach is increasingly relevant in equestrian circles; however, safety, legality, and efficacy remain points of active discussion. Scientific Insights into CBD's Impact on Equine Behavior and Pain Research on CBD's application in equestrian settings is relatively nascent compared to human studies, yet existing veterinary trials provide promising results: A 2021 study recorded in the *Journal of Veterinary Behavior* found that horses receiving 100 mg of CBD daily showed reduced anxiety and behavioral reactivity. Another trial observed significant pain relief and behavior improvement in a mare, treated with 250 mg of CBD twice daily, within just 36 hours. The corticosteroid CBD study in mature arthritic horses reported reduced heart and respiratory rates, along with improved pain scores. Safety evaluations conducted by Colorado State University noted that doses of up to 2 mg/kg were well-tolerated with few adverse effects. However, transient liver enzyme elevation was noted in a subset of subjects, indicating the need for veterinary oversight. The Cost-Benefit Analysis of CBD Oil for Horse Owners Understanding the economic and therapeutic implications of CBD oil in equine care is crucial: Efficacy and Safety CBD's ability to significantly reduce anxiety and pain-related behaviors without major adverse effects presents a compelling low-risk intervention for many horse owners. Variety and Dosage Concerns CBD products vary widely in concentration and purity, impacting both the efficacy and cost: A 40-gram supplement with 100 mg CBD offers a useful dosage reference. Pricing is contingent on product quality, ranging from moderate to premium. Legal and Veterinary Considerations While CBD is gaining traction in veterinary applications, it remains prohibited in some equestrian competitions, limiting its use in competitive settings. Overall Holistic Benefits CBD is not only useful for behavior management; many users report improved sleep, comfort, and reduced inflammation, potentially cutting down on veterinary expenses and reducing the need for harsher medications. Practical Guidance for Horse Owners Consultation and Product Selection It's advisable for horse owners to consult with veterinarians seasoned in equine CBD use to ensure proper dosing and product selection, particularly to avoid interference with sports regulations and to monitor liver health. Selecting Quality CBD Products Opt for high-quality, third-party tested CBD products designed specifically for equines: These products mitigate safety concerns and potency issues, providing peace of mind. Begin with a low dosage and closely monitor any behavioral or physiological changes. Adjustments may be necessary based on individual responses and side effects. Conclusion The existing body of research points towards CBD oil being a promising and safe supplement for addressing common equine anxiety, stress, and pain-related behaviors. Continued scientific investigation will be key in affirming optimal dosing strategies and long-term safety. For equestrian aficionados exploring natural, integrative approaches, CBD oil offers a favorable cost-benefit ratio and harmonizes well with established horse care practices. Engaging with veterinary professionals remains paramount in leveraging CBD's full potential responsibly. For further information on equestrian supplements, visit Just Horse Riders' collection. ```html```

Welcome to Horse Illustrateds weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCAs Right Horse program. This weeks adoptable horse is Hazel! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.Photo courtesy February Star Sanctuary Inc.Adoptable Horse: Hazel, a 7-year-old, 16.0hh Thoroughbred mareOrganization: February Star Sanctuary Inc., Knoxville, Md.Get to Know Adoptable Horse HazelHoping for a mare full of heart? Meet Hazel!Registered with The Jockey Club as Three D Party, this unraced Thoroughbred mare has tons of potential. By the graded stakes winner and proven sire Desert Party, Hazel is also ready for successjust via an off-the-track career. Shes great for riding and could go into various disciplines.Hazel also loves to be the queen of the herd and will likely want to be the first to greet you at the gate. She is up to date on vaccinations.Contact February Star Sanctuary Inc. today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Hazel!Photo courtesy February Star Sanctuary Inc.ASPCA Right HorseASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Hazel appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Horses with a higher load of mucus in their airways are more likely to have severe equine asthma. | iStockEquine researchers recently determined that horses with a higher load of mucus in their airways are more likely to have severe equine asthma (SEA). More specifically, mucus quantity scores greater than 2 out of 5, as seen during endoscopy of the lower trachea and its branches, were 3.6 times more likely to be associated with the severe form of the disease. The findings explain the links between mucus and equine asthma, said Julia Drespling, DrMedVet, a PhD candidate at the Institute of Veterinary Pathology at Freie Universitt Berlin and EquiZyt UG Laboratory, in Steinhring, both in Germany.We know from human medicine that mucus plays an important role in certain diseasesnot only as a symptom but also as a central pathogenetic (disease-causing) factor, she said. We hope that our study will help veterinarians and horse owners interpret mucus findings more accurately and initiate comprehensive diagnostics.Studying Equine Tracheal MucusDrespling and her colleagues analyzed more than 1,500 samples of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid from horses treated at 84 different clinics across Germany. They asked the treating veterinarians to complete questionnaires about their clinical findings and observations of mucus on endoscopy. The team also collected information about each horses daily life, including any respiratory signs such as coughing, directly from the owners.The researchers used various cell counts from their BAL analyses to diagnose equine asthma and its severity. Then they compared those results to the two mucus scoresone for the amount and the other for viscosity, which relates to thickness and stickinessrecorded by the treating veterinarians.Contrary to their expectations, the mucus quantity score didnt increase consistently with every step in asthma severity. Even so, they found severe asthma much more commonly in the upper half of the mucus scale. Horses with scores above 2 were more likely to have SEA, whereas mild-to-moderate asthma was more often associated with scores of 2 or less.Further statistical analyses led the team to find that horses having quantity scores in that upper bracket were nearly four times more likely to have a severe asthma diagnosis based on BAL, Drespling said.By contrast, the viscosity scores were only weakly associated with asthma severity, meaning they dont offer reliable clues about the degree of disease, said Dresplings supervisor, Lars Mundhenk, PhD, DrMedVet, Dipl. ECVP, of the Institute of Veterinary Pathology at Freie Universitt Berlin.Both quantity and viscosity scores tended to increase with age, regardless of asthma diagnosis, the researchers said. However, they did not find any correlations between scores and body condition, breed, or sex. On average the team noticed mucus was most abundant in the spring and least abundant in autumn, and winter mucus was the most viscous.Additionally, they found that a greater quantity of mucus was associated with fewer fungal spores and fragments. That was somewhat unexpected, they said, because scientists generally suspect these foreign elements contribute to asthma severity. The abundant mucus might successfully trap particles in the nose before they descend into lower regions of the respiratory tract, the researchers explained.The Importance of Accurate Diagnoses for Horses With AsthmaDrespling and Mundhenk said that while mucus scores can only be assessed through endoscopy, they were somewhat associated with visible clinical signs. Horses with higher scores were slightly more likely to cough, produce nasal discharge, breathe harder and faster, and have lower blood oxygen levels.The findings suggest that high amounts of mucus could be a red flag for severe asthma and prompt veterinarians to investigate further, said Drespling. Our study highlights the importance of combining different diagnostic elements: clinical history, physical examination, endoscopy, and cytology, she added.The study, Endoscopically assessed mucus parameters in equine asthma: Relationship to clinical history and cytological findings data, appeared in Equine Veterinary Journal in July 2025.

Twinkling lights, chilly mornings, and that unmistakable festive buzz December is the perfect time to wrap up the year with new goals in the saddle!Our group riding lessons are now open to book.Whether youre starting your riding journey or polishing up your skills before the holidays, weve got a place for you this December. Book now via our app or website. New riders: Dont forget to complete the Rider Registration Form!Come enjoy crisp air, cheerful company, and a little seasonal sparkle we cant wait to see you at Gransha this Christmas!

Prevention is the best protection against EHV. | iStockEquine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is a highly contagious virus in horses that can cause respiratory disease, reproductive issues, and neurologic disease. Because infected horses can spread the virus for an extended period of time, its especially important that owners take precautions during outbreaks.Jared Janke, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM-LAIM, clinical associate professor of equine internal medicine at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, shares five things horse owners should know about EHV-1.1. EHV-1 can be spread in multiple ways.Equine herpesvirus-1 spreads between horses through direct contact, airborne transmission in distances less than 30 feet, and indirect transmission by people and equipment.Quarantining and reducing exposure is vital because the virus spreads easily and can transmit from horse to horse before any clinical signs appear, Janke said. Preventing the movement of exposed horses helps cut off main transmission routes.Its also especially important to avoid sharing any grooming equipment, water and feed sources, or other tools between infected and healthy horses, as the virus can survive in the environment for several weeks.Likewise, owners and horse handlers should change their clothes and thoroughly wash their hands and arms after caring for infected horses (and before caring for healthy ones).2. The virus can cause a variety of clinical signs.This herpesvirus causes three main categories of symptoms respiratory, reproductive, and neurologic. The neurologic form, which causes a condition known as equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM), is the most dangerous and transmissible.If a horse becomes infected with EHV-1, clinical signs typically appear within five to 10 days, but that period might be prolonged in cases of EHM.Equine herpes myeloencephalopathy signs, caused by damage to blood vessels in the spinal cord and brain, often include high fever, lack of coordination, weakness, urinary dribbling (incontinence), and decreased sensation in the tail and perineal area.Less commonly, the horse might show symptoms related to the brain, such as neurologic facial signs and head tilt.Other non-neurologic signs of EHV-1 can include nasal discharge or coughing in any horse, and pregnancy loss in broodmares.Fever is the most consistent sign identified in EHV-1 infections, but it is usually not persistent, Janke said. It can come and go throughout the day, so owners should conduct temperature readings at least twice daily. The most concerning signs to watch for include fever, lethargy, limb incoordination, weakness, weak tail tone, and urine dribbling. These signs can progress to an inability to stand, known as recumbency.3. Diagnosis and reporting are key.If a horse is showing signs of EHV-1, its owner should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible to discuss diagnosis, treatment, and quarantine.Any signs of fever along with hind-limb loss of coordination, urine dribbling, or weak tail tone should prompt an owner to isolate the horse, stop the movement (transport) of any animals in contact, and reach out to their veterinarian immediately, Janke said. Your veterinarian will help ensure that the proper diagnostic tests are performed and will notify their states animal health official of the ongoing situation.The virus can be diagnosed with a nasal swab and blood test that is sent to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Results are typically available in as little as one to two days.Because the virus has high outbreak potential, the veterinarian will advise quarantining sick horses until diagnostic results are available.Owners must recognize that EHM is a reportable disease because of its highly contagious nature and the serious effects outbreaks can have on the horse industry, Janke said. Therefore, owners need to follow their veterinarians advice and the guidance of state animal health officials.4. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms.A horse infected with EHV-1 will be quarantined based on the guidance of state animal health officials. This might include confinement at home or, if symptoms progress, receiving preapproval to transport the horse to a veterinary facility equipped to isolate and manage EHV-1 infections.Supportive care remains the primary approach for treating EHM, so infected horses are often given therapies such as intravenous fluids and anti-inflammatory medications.Veterinarians commonly consider antiviral medications; however, there remains a significant lack of solid evidence that they are beneficial, said Janke.When these medications are used, they appear to be most beneficial when initiated before clinical signs or at very early stages of disease, he said.Unfortunately, once a horse loses its ability to stand, the condition becomes much more difficult to treat.The prognosis for horses with EHV-1 infections varies widely; however, most outbreaks of EHM have an overall 7080% survival rate, Janke said. Horses with EHM that can still stand and show only mild to moderate neurologic signs have a good chance of recovery.An infected horse might continue shedding the virus even after symptoms resolve, so its important to follow the guidance of your veterinarian and animal health officials. Repeated testing might be necessary before the horse is released from quarantine.5. Prevention is the best protection.Although EHV-1 vaccines are widely available, it is important to recognize that no current vaccine option directly prevents the clinical signs of EHV-1 infections, particularly EHM.The benefit of vaccination is that immunized horses may shed less virus, resulting in less contamination of the environment and other horses, Janke said. Your veterinarian can guide you on the selection of appropriate vaccine products for your horses.The best form of prevention remains keeping healthy horses away from infected horses and any equipment or people that have come into contact with EHV-1.If there is an EHV-1 outbreak in your area, avoid traveling with horses until the outbreak is resolved and your local animal health officials have announced it is safe to travel in the area.Finally, if a horse is suspected to be sick or has been exposed to EHV-1, begin taking twice-daily rectal temperature readings and immediately separate the animal from other horses. Monitoring rectal temperatures throughout an outbreak event helps owners identify infected horses early.Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible if your horse has been in contact with or is suspected to have been exposed to an infected horse, Janke said. This gives you a better chance of intervening early before clinical signs have developed. Your veterinarian can evaluate your horses risk of developing the disease and, in some cases, may prescribe preventive medications.In the event of an EHV-1 outbreak, the best steps an owner can take are closely monitoring their horses and acting immediately if infection is suspected. Simple precautions can make a big difference in stopping an EHV-1 outbreak in its tracks.Pasture Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web atvetmed.tamu.edu/news/tag/pasture-talk/. Suggestions for future topics may be directed tovmbs-editor@tamu.edu.