Survey highlights equine weight management challenges
A new survey by feed manufacturer SPILLERS has revealed that, while many horse owners understand the causes of excess weight, they face significant barriers in managing it effectively.
The study, conducted in summer 2025 with 1,519 respondents, found that more than 74% of leisure horses may be overweight — raising the risk of laminitis, insulin dysregulation and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Key findings included:
- Health prevalence: 20% of respondents’ horses were affected by EMS, PPID or laminitis.
- Perceived causes: Lack of exercise (38%) and excess calories/overfeeding (37%) topped the list, followed by age/health conditions (24%).
- Forage strategies: Stabling part of the day (19%) and small-holed hay nets (18%) were most popular. Muzzle use remained low, at just 7%.
- Practical barriers: Time pressures (22%), difficulty controlling calorie intake (21%) and horses appearing hungry (21%) were widely cited.
- Monitoring: While 57% checked weight daily or weekly, only 13% used a weighbridge.
“This survey has delivered valuable insights, directly from horse owners, about their current equine weight management practices,” said Bella Fricker, Project Lead at Mars Horsecare, home of the SPILLERS brand.
More than 13,500 owners are already part of the SPILLERS Slimmers’ Club, an online support group aimed at tackling equine obesity.
To find out more, visit: www.spillers-feeds.com