Cresty Neck Score Research Articles

Relationship between morphometric measurements and blood parameters in horses with varying adiposity levels and physiological conditions.

Understanding and finding the correlation between morphometric measurements and horse blood parameters is crucial for predicting equine metabolic issues. This study aims to analyse morphometric measurements and blood samples in horses with varying adiposity levels. Cross-sectional observational. A total of 50 horses were included in the study and categorized into groups based on their body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS). The insulin concentration was significantly higher in overweight horses (p=0.022). Female horses exhibited higher cortisol concentrations (p=0.025) and girth circumference at the withers (p=0.004) compared to males. Lactating mares exhibited higher concentrations of serum total protein (p=0.012) and globulin (p=0.003). A positive correlation was observed between BCS and insulin concentrations (r=0.290, p=0.041). Negative correlations were found between neck circumference to height at withers and glucose (r=-0.309, p=0.029), CNS and glucose (r=-0.315, p=0.026) as well as between crest diameter and cortisol (r=-0.360, p=0.01). Increasing the sample size and conducting longitudinal studies would enhance the study's validity and reliability. Although insulin, glucose and cortisol concentrations have predictive capabilities based on signs and certain morphometric measurements, their correlations are not always strong. Therefore, this study challenges the notion that all overweight horses are unhealthy, as overweight horses can still have good metabolic health. Conversely, lean horses may also experience metabolic issues. Hence, relying solely on visual cues is insufficient to diagnose the metabolic status of horses. Other factors must also be considered to assess their health status accurately.

The impact of restricted grazing systems on the behaviour and welfare of ponies.

Equine obesity is a growing concern. Much of the current management advice centres on dietary restrictions, including the removal or limitation of grazing. Little is known about the impact of these approaches on the welfare of the horse. This study investigates the effect of two commonly used grazing systems advocated for the control of weight-the 'strip-grazing' and the 'track' systems-on the behaviour and welfare of outdoor-living ponies. A within-subject cross-over experimental design with four groups of pasture-kept ponies experiencing each system for 4 weeks in a random order. Time budgets and behavioural indicators of welfare were measured using 24-h electronic surveillance, morphometric parameters including weight, body condition score and cresty neck score were measured weekly and activity levels were tracked. The effect of grazing system on movement and behaviour was tested using a general linear model. Ponies moved more [median (IQR) % time spent moving, track: 3.23% (2.08%), strip: 2.02% (0.90%); p = 0.001] and travelled a greater distance [median (IQR) metres/24 h, track: 7013.47 m (1761.49 m), strip: 5331.91 m (494.16 m); p < 0.001] and engaged in less overt agonistic behaviour on the track system compared with the strip system [median (IQR) prevalence per hour; track: 0.14 (0.30), strip: 0.21 (0.37) p = 0.02]. A relatively short time period of exposure to each grazing system. Ponies on strip systems moved less and exhibited increased agonistic interactions compared with the track system, maybe as a result of a perceived reduction in space or concentration of resources, although the accessible areas were matched. These results suggest that there may be physical as well as psychological health benefits to the track system.

112 Effects of maternal body condition on colostrum, foal weight, and foal IgG concentration

Abstract Foals are born with little to no immunity and rely on maternal colostrum to develop adequate circulating immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations in the periparturient period. Colostrum directly impacts the health of the foal, and there are limited data assessing how maternal metabolism and body condition impacts IgG in colostrum and in the foal postnatally. To determine the influence of maternal body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS) on glucose and insulin metabolism in the pregnant mare, colostrum composition, and colostrum and foal IgG concentrations, light breed mares (n = 6) were divided into two groups based on BCS and CNS at 315 ± 0.45 d of gestation. The groups were identified as moderately obese (MO; n = 3, BCS) and lean (LN; n = 3). Mares were fasted overnight and then underwent an intravenous (iv) glucose tolerance test at 315 ± 0.45 d gestation. Blood samples were collected at -30, -15 and 0 min and mares were administered dextrose iv [0.3 g/kg body weight (BW)] over 3.7 ± 0.17 min followed by an intravenous infusion of insulin (0.3 mU/kg BW) 20-min later. Additional blood samples were collected 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 60, and 120 min after initiation of dextrose infusion. At parturition, a colostrum sample was collected before foals nursed and analyzed for protein and fat, and IgG concentration. A foal blood sample was collected 18 h after birth to determine passive transfer of IgG. Placental, mare, and foal weights were measured at birth. Data were analyzed using a t-test with significance at P ≤ 0.05 and a tendency at 0.05 &amp;lt; P ≤ 0.10. The MO group had greater BCS (P = 0.01) and CNS (P = 0.01) than the LN group. Moderately obese mares tended to have 9% greater glucose area under the curve (AUC) after dextrose (P = 0.10) and a 9% greater glucose AUC after insulin infusion (P = 0.10) than LN mares. Colostrum IgG concentrations, and protein and fat content (P ≥ 0.3) did not differ between groups. Foal serum IgG concentrations, foal BW, and placental weights were similar between groups (P ≥ 0.8). The ratios between foal BW and placenta weight, and between foal BW and mare BW were similar between groups (P ≥ 0.3). Moderately obese maternal BCS and CNS scores may decrease maternal glucose clearance during late gestation but did not impact colostrum quality or foal IgG concentrations within 24 h postpartum. As the equine fetus matures later in gestation than other livestock species and relies heavily on glucose uptake from the placenta, it is critical to increase our understanding of the impacts of maternal obesity and glucose clearance on foal development and pre- and post-natal health.

Arthrospira platensis enriched with Cr(III), Mg(II), and Mn(II) ions improves insulin sensitivity and reduces systemic inflammation in equine metabolic affected horses.

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a critical endocrine condition in horses, characterized by hyperinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance, posing a significant threat to their health. This study investigates the efficacy of supplementing EMS-affected horses with Arthrospira platensis enriched with Cr(III), Mg(II), and Mn(II) ions using biosorption process in improving insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, reducing inflammation, and mitigating obesity-related fat accumulation. Our results demonstrate that Arthrospira supplementation reduces baseline insulin and glucose levels, contributing to decreased adipose tissue inflammation. Furthermore, Arthrospira supplementation results in a decrease in body weight and improvements in overall body condition scores and cresty neck scores. Additionally, administration of Arthrospira leads to reduced levels of triglycerides and aspartate aminotransferase, indicating a decrease in hepatic adiposity and inflammation. These findings suggest that Arthrospira, enriched with essential micro- and macroelements, can be an advanced feed additive to enhance insulin sensitivity, promote weight reduction, and alleviate inflammatory processes, thereby improving the overall condition of horses affected by EMS. The use of Arthrospira as a feed additive has the potential to complement conventional management strategies for EMS.

Epidemiological investigation of insulin dysregulation in Shetland and Welsh ponies in Australia.

Insulin dysregulation (ID) is central to equine metabolic syndrome. There are limited epidemiological studies investigating dynamic testing of ID in ponies. To evaluate prevalence and risk factors for ID through dynamic testing of hyperinsulinaemia (DHI) and insulin resistance (IR). Cross-sectional. Sex, age, breed, height, cresty neck score (CNS), body condition score (BCS), laminitis, HMGA2:c.83G>A genotype and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) status were documented. Dynamic hyperinsulinaemia was diagnosed with an oral sugar test (OST) and IR with an insulin tolerance test (ITT). Owners completed surveys reporting activity, laminitis history and perception of body condition using a (1-9) visual analogue scale (VASo). Ordinal scores were converted to binary outcomes for CNS (≤2/5 or ≥3/5), BCS and VASo (≤6/9 or ≥7/9). Variables associated with insulin concentrations, glucose reduction after the ITT and laminitis were evaluated with mixed effects regression models accounting for random effects of farms. Among 167 ponies tested, median (range) age was 9 (4-21) years and BCS was 6 (4-8). Prevalence (95% confidence interval [CI]) of ID was 61 (53-68)%. Factors associated with insulin concentrations (estimate [95% CI]; μIU/mL) 60 min post-OST were: age (1.07 [1.02-1.11]), CNS (≥3/5, 1.52 [1.04-2.23]) and VASo (≥7/9, 1.75 [1.09-2.79]); and 90 min post-OST were: age (1.08 [1.03-1.12]), CNS (≥3/5, 1.80 [1.22-2.64]), VASo (≥7/9, 2.49 [1.52-4.08]) and sex (male, 0.64 [0.45-0.91]). Factors associated with glucose reduction after the ITT (estimate [95% CI]; %) were: age (-1.34 [-2.01 to -0.67]), sex (female, -6.21 [-11.68 to -0.74]) and VASo (≥7/9, -1.74 [-18.89 to -4.78]). Factors associated with laminitis (odds ratio [95% CI]) were DHI (4.60 [1.68-12.58]), IR (3.66 [1.26-10.61]) and PPID (11.75 [1.54-89.40]). Single time-point sampling, laminitis definition and diet analysis. Ageing, being female and owner-perceived obesity were associated with ID.

Can Nigerian horse owners effectively estimate body condition and cresty neck scores?

A horse's body condition impacts every aspect of its life, including reproduction, performance, and health. Obesity and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) are common in Nigeria; hence, early identification of a horse's obesity status by the owner is key to avoiding associated health issues such as EMS. Our study aimed to determine whether horse owners could effectively estimate their horses' body condition scores (BCSs) and cresty neck scores (CNSs). A total of 50 adult sedentary West African Barb horses owned by 50 different people were enrolled in the study. Body condition scores (BCSs) and cresty neck scores (CNSs) were assessed on scales of 1-9 and 0-5, respectively, by an experienced veterinarian and owners. The latter had no veterinary background, received no prior education, and assessed their horses based on provided visual aids and descriptions. The BCS estimates of the experienced veterinarian and owners were slightly in agreement (k=0.209), while there was moderate agreement (k=0.547) between the CNS estimates of the experienced veterinarian and the owners. The proportion of obesity based on the experienced veterinarian's estimation (32%) was higher than that of the owners (18%). The proportion of nuchal crest adiposity based on the experienced veterinarian's (38%) estimation was slightly lower than that of the owners (42%). A larger proportion of the owners underestimated their horses' BCSs and CNSs. We conclude that owners cannot effectively estimate their horses' BCSs and CNSs. It is imperative that they are informed about the health issues associated with obesity and are taught how to effectively estimate BCS and CNS.

Metabolic profile and body condition score of Crioulo horses finalists in the Freio de Ouro competition

The aim of this study was to assess the body condition score (BCS) and metabolic profile of finalists in the Freio de Ouro competition, stratified by sex. This study examined 84 Crioulo horses, comprising 43 non-pregnant mares and 41 stallions. Morphometric measurements, including BCS, cresty neck score (CNS), neck and heart girth, and assessments of fat depth at the neck and at the tail base, were conducted. Additional derived measurements such as the percentage of body fat (%BF), body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), heart girth:height ratio (HG:HW), and neck circumference:height ratio (NC:HW) were calculated. A subgroup of 53 animals was selected for the evaluation of metabolic parameters, including triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), and adiponectin.In terms of BCS, 21% of participants were classified as overweight, with 49% having CNS≥3. Females exhibited greater fat deposition at the tail base and neck, along with higher %BF, FM, and HG:HW ratio, and lower NC:HWcompared to males. Among metabolic variables, females showed higher concentrations of LDH, LDL, CK, and lower concentrations of adiponectin than males. No differences were observed in morphometric measurements between participants that qualified for the final day of the competition and those which were disqualified. The study revealed that despite the rigorous physical demands and preparation required for the Freio de Ouro competition, a percentage of participants were overweight, displaying increased regional fat deposition in the neck. Although no metabolic changes related to increased adiposity were identified, the findings indicate a predisposition to the development of metabolic alterations. Additionally, females exhibited a greater accumulation of fat than males.

Obesity and obesity-associated metabolic disease conditions in Connemara ponies in Ireland.

Equine obesity combined with insulin dysregulation (ID) is a major risk factor associated with laminitis. Some pony breeds appear to be at increased risk. However, little is known regarding the prevalence of obesity or hyperinsulinaemia as evidence of ID in Irish ponies. To investigate the prevalence of obesity and associated endocrine/metabolic disease conditions in Connemara ponies and to determine if hyperinsulinaemia in these ponies could be predicted by morphometric or metabolic markers. Cross-sectional study. The study population included registered Connemara ponies recruited through public and veterinary social media posts. Ponies underwent a physical examination and information on their management and clinical history was obtained via owner questionnaire. The body condition score (BCS) was measured using the Henneke system; cresty neck score (CNS) and regionalised adiposity were also assessed. Hyperinsulinaemia was confirmed by measuring serum basal insulin concentration (BIC) or insulin concentration after an oral sugar test (OST). Blood glucose and triglyceride concentrations were measured. Characteristics of hyperinsulinaemic and insulin-sensitive ponies were compared by logistic regression. Two hundred ponies were included; 59 ponies (29.5%) had a BCS ≥7, 58 (29.0%) had a CNS ≥2.5 and 135 (67.5%) had regionalised adiposity; 137 (68.5%) ponies had at least one of these abnormalities. Owner-reported history or clinical evidence of chronic laminitis was found in 92 ponies (46.0%). Hyperinsulinaemia was confirmed in 32 ponies (16.0%), including 23 of 91 (25.3%) detected by OST and 9 of 109 (8.3%) by BIC. Hypertriglyceridaemia was observed in 12 of 198 ponies (6.1%) ponies and hyperglycaemia in 11 of 197 ponies (5.6%) ponies. The odds of hyperinsulinaemia increased by a factor of 6.53 (95% confidence interval: 2.95, 15.21) when BCS was ≥7. The OST was not performed in all ponies. Increased adiposity, laminitis and metabolic derangements are prevalent in this native Irish pony breed.

Risk Factors for Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome Incidence in Adult Icelandic Riding Horses.

A high prevalence of both squamous (ESGD) and glandular (EGGD) ulcers was previously found in, mainly young, Icelandic horses coming into training for the first time. This study evaluated risk factors for gastric ulcers in Icelandic riding horses at various ages and stages of training. The horses (n = 211) were gastroscoped from 21 equine establishments across Iceland. A variety of morphometric, clinical, behavioural and management factors were evaluated as potential risk factors for gastroscopically significant (grade ≥ 2/4: found in 27% of horses) or gastroscopically severe (grade 3 or 4/4: found in ~10% of horses) ESGD or gastroscopically significant EGGD (grade ≥ 1/2: found in 46.4%). Body condition score (BCS), cresty neck score (CNS), stable/turnout behaviour, exercise intensity/frequency and age were not significantly associated with ESGD or EGGD ulcer score. However, having come off the pasture into training for 4 weeks or less was a significant risk factor for gastroscopically significant and severe ESGD compared to 5 weeks or more. For both EGGD and ESGD, "region" was important. Gastroscopically significant EGGD and gastroscopically severe ESGD were more prevalent in those showing clinical signs often associated with ulcers. Geldings were more likely to have gastroscopically significant ESGD than both mares and stallions and more EGGD than stallions. Being stabled, but spending >2 h/day out in the paddock, compared with <2 h paddock time or full-time turnout, was protective for gastroscopically significant ESGD as was being fed complementary feed (all fed <1 g non-structural carbohydrate (NSC)/kg/BW/meal). Being at a training establishment for >4 weeks was protective for gastroscopically significant and gastroscopically severe ESGD but not EGGD. This study confirms the relatively low prevalence of ESGD in Icelandic horses being kept in training establishments and fed low NSC diets but highlights the high prevalence of EGGD.

Diagnosis of equine endocrinopathies: The value of measuring blood glucose during an oral glucose test

Blood glucose concentration is often measured during an oral glucose test (OGT), but is not thought to aid in diagnosing insulin dysregulation (ID) or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate whether the change in blood glucose concentration during an OGT aligned with indicators of equine metabolic syndrome or PPID, including serum insulin and plasma ACTH concentrations, clinical observations, age, sex, breed type and the test dose. The cohort included 149 horses, miniature horses, and ponies that had undergone an in-feed OGT and clinical examination between 2015 and 2021. The animals were diagnosed as either metabolically healthy, insulin-dysregulated, having PPID or both endocrinopathies. The mean ± standard error increase in blood glucose during the OGT was 3.41 ± 0.21 mM, and this change showed a weak positive correlation with the increase in serum insulin concentration (r = 0.36; P 0.001), body condition score (BCS; r = 0.26; P = 0.002) and cresty neck score (CNS; r = 0.38; P 0.001). The median [interquartile range] increase in blood glucose for miniature horses (5.25 [2.98–6.5] mM), was more than twice that seen in full-sized horses (2.4 [1.33–3.45] mM; P = 0.03). In metabolically healthy animals the increase in blood glucose during an OGT (+2.2 [1–3.5] mM) was smaller (P 0.001) than in animals with ID (+3.8 [2.73–5.33] mM), or both endocrine diseases (+6.1 [3.6–6.85] mM). There was an effect of the dose of dextrose on the blood glucose response, with higher doses yielding larger responses (P 0.001). The variability in these data support that basal and post-prandial blood glucose responses to an OGT are not appropriate as stand-alone diagnostic markers of ID or PPID. However, the association between blood glucose and CNS supports the use of CNS when evaluating animals for ID.

Morphometric Measurements and Muscle Atrophy Scoring as a Tool to Predict Body Weight and Condition of Horses.

Accurate estimation of body weight (BW) and condition (BCS) is important in the equine practice. The main goal of this research was to develop models for the prediction of BW and BCS of horses in the practice using both common morphometric measurements and measurements of Cresty Neck Score (CNS) and Muscle Atrophy Scoring System (MASS) as a measure of muscularity. Our model showed that the BW of horses could be predicted with high reproducibility (concordance correlation coefficient = 0.97), accuracy (0.99), and precision (0.97) using the morphometric measurements of the height at withers, circumference of the chest, cane circumference, body length, and body circumference as well as the BCS, CNS, and muscle atrophy score of the hindlimbs. The stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the BCS of horses can be predicted with the data of parameters such as age, body length and an index consisting of measurements of the body circumference to height of withers, and the atrophy of the neck. Future research should use larger cohorts of animals to validate the findings of this study.

59 Inter-rater reliability of equine nutrition screening tools in a clinical setting

Malnutrition, a nutritional imbalance capable of occurring within any body condition, continues to be underrecognized and undertreated in presumed healthy and hospitalized equids. In veterinary medicine, no agreed “gold-standard” exists for a malnutrition diagnosis in equine patients, exaggerated by a lack of screening tools (ST) being performed on each patient at every veterinary visit. Our objective was to assess inter-rater reliability (IRR) among trained inter-disciplinary professionals when performing suggested routine nutrition screening tools in equine patients. Between March and November 2022, 90 horses admitted to the University of Tennessee's Large Animal Hospital were reviewed by up to 5 trained individuals: 3 board-certified veterinarians (2 equine internal medicine specialists, 1 theriogenologist), 1 veterinary resident, 1 PhD equine nutritionist, and 1 nutrition specialty veterinary nurse. Raters underwent one training session together for ST before study enrollment including; body condition score (BCS), muscle atrophy scoring system (MASS), cresty neck score (CNS), and equine comfort assessment scale (ECAS). Enrolled horses encompassed the following ST ranges; BCS 1–9, MASS 1–4, CNS 0–4, and ECAS 0–3. Raters performed ST evaluations individually and were blinded to other rater's scores. Statistical analysis for IRR were performed using Gwet's AC1 (Stata17 SE, College Station, TX), results reported as coefficient (percent agreement) correspondingto benchmarks from substantial (0.6000–0.8000) to almost perfect (0.8000–1.0000). Among all raters (up to 5), almost perfect reliability occurred within BCS 0.94 (98.6%) with BCS range of 1–9, ECAS 0.89 (95.1%) with a range of 0–3, MASS Back 0.76 (91.3%), and substantial reliability for MASS Hind 0.80 (92.0%), CNS 0.77 (93.2%), and MASS Neck 0.76 (91.3%). Due to rater availability, ultimately, 2 raters (1 PhD equine nutritionist, and 1 nutrition specialty veterinary nurse) screened majority of the horses (n = 52). Similar IRR was detected among the 2 raters with almost perfect reliability within BCS 0.95 (98.8%), ECAS 0.90 (95.3%), MASS Hind 0.88 (94.4%), and MASS Neck 0.81 (92.7%) with substantial reliability among MASS Back 0.78 (89.9%), and CNS 0.76 (92.7%). Our data suggests that these 5 trained, inter-professional raters reliably agreed on all ST when evaluating horses. While the MASS Back, MASS Neck and CNS had the lowest agreement and most variability among raters, these were still considered substantially reliable. This suggests that these ST, when using the same trained raters, could be a reliable part of a larger development in performing equine nutrition screenings.

184 Horses with previous episodes of laminitis have altered insulin responses to seasonal oral sugar testing compared to horses with no known history of laminitis

Forage is essential to the equine diet for overall health and performance. However, intake of elevated pasture nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) can cause metabolic dysfunction in horses. This study aimed to investigate the influence of laminitis history on metabolic and morphometric responses in grazing horses over 12 consecutive months. Twelve mares (15 ± 3.4 yrs) were selected for this study based on previous diagnosis of laminitis (PRELAM; n = 6) or no known history of laminitis (NOLAM; n = 6). Horses were maintained on 8.5-ha cool season pasture in northern Virginia with access to hay in winter months. Weekly pasture samples (200 g wet weight) were clipped at random, 2.5 cm from base of plant for nutrient analysis. Weekly blood samples were collected and analyzed for glucose and insulin concentrations. Morphometric data including body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), and cresty neck score (CNS) were evaluated weekly. Monthly, a modified oral sugar test (OST) was used to assess basal (T0) and 75-min (T75) insulin dynamics following 0.30 mL/kg BW Karo Light Corn Syrup administration. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED with repeated measures in SAS (v. 15.1., SAS Institute, Cary, NC) and presented as mean ± SEM. Initial BW, BCS, and CNS measures were higher in PRELAM compared with NOLAM (P = 0.004). Throughout the study, CNS was affected by month (P = 0.004) and PRELAMhad greater CNS than NOLAM (P < 0.001). Monthly BW was consistently heavier in PRELAM compared with NOLAM (P < 0.05). The PRELAM group also had higher BCS compared with NOLAM (P < 0.05) every month except January (P > 0.2). Weekly non-fasted glucose was influenced by month (P < 0.001) while non-fasted insulin concentrations were affected by group by month (P = 0.004). Non-fasted insulin concentrations were greater for PRELAM in May compared with all time points except June (P = 0.44). Fasted insulin concentrations (T0) were affected by month and group (P < 0.001) whereas PRELAM had greater concentrations compared with NOLAM. At T75, glucose and insulin concentrations were affected by month (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively) and were higher for PRELAM compared with NOLAM (P = 0.003). These data suggest horses with greater general and regional adiposity, and a previous history of laminitis, exhibit greater insulin concentrations in response to grazing forage and OST compared with leaner horses with no known history of laminitis. Metabolic responses to grazing and OST fluctuate throughout the year and may be most useful for clinical interpretation during summer months in the northern hemisphere.

79 Investigation of body condition scores, feedstuff, and feed intake in a racing pony population in West Nusa Tenggara

A healthy body condition is essential for equine health and performance. Therefore, recognizing equine body condition and adjusting nutritional management are required for the best output. This study aimed to determine: 1) general feeding practice and desired body condition scores (BCS) by the owners, 3) body condition scores and morphometric measurements, and 2) feedstuffs used and estimated nutritional intake, of racing ponies in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. An online initial survey form was sent to the farmers via Whatsapp and Facebook groups. The form also included a list of pictures of ponies with different BCS. Owners were asked if the ponies in the pictures were ideal for racing purposes. Fifty-two pony owners filled in the survey and 21 owners of 54 ponies that actively raced signed up for the next part of the study. The ponies’ age was 3.6 ± 3.6 years. Meanwhile, the breeds consisted of 37% (20/54) Sumbawa ponies, 25.9% (14/54) Sandalwood-cross ponies, 20.4% (11/54) Sandalwood ponies, 11.1% (6/54) Flores ponies, and 3.7% (2/54) Lombok ponies. Ponies were accessed, BCS and cresty neck scores (CNS) were assessed, and morphometric parameters were measured. These were also used to estimatebodyweight. Feeds were weighed, identified and sent for nutritional analysis. Owners’ answers indicated that they were aware of the importance of nutrition and proper body conditions for their ponies. Moreover, the highest agreement on how ideal a pony for racing was on a pony with BCS 5.5. Furthermore, mean BCS of ponies signed up for this study was 5.16 ± 0.5 (out of 9). The most commonly fed forage species were Cynodon dactylon, Leersia hexandra, and Eulalia aurera, with rice bran as the main concentrate. Mean DE intake was ∼1 Mcal above NRC recommendation. Mean protein intake was 19% higher than NRC recommendation. Calcium intake was below NRC recommendation with phosphorus intake above NRC recommendation. The calcium: phosphorus ratio was concerning as phosphorus intake was 5 times calcium intake. Finally, owners’ answers (21/21) indicated that they would need educational materials about equine nutrition, particularly on feeding balanced diets for the animals.

Evaluation of an HMGA2 variant contribution to height and basal insulin concentrations in ponies.

The HMGA2:c.83G>A variant was identified in Welsh ponies having pleiotropic effects on height and insulin concentration. Determine whether the HMGA2:c.83G>A variant is associated with decreased height and higher basal insulin concentrations across pony breeds. Two hundred thirty-six ponies across 6 breeds. Cross-sectional study. Ponies were genotyped for the HMGA2:c.83G>A variant and phenotyped for height and basal insulin concentrations. Stepwise regression was performed for model analysis using a linear regression model for height and mixed linear model for insulin with farm as a random effect. Coefficient of determination, pairwise comparison of the estimated marginal means and partial correlation coefficients (parcor) were calculated to assess the relationship between HMGA2 genotype and height or insulin. Breed and genotype accounted for 90.5% of the variation in height across breeds, and genotype explained 21% to 44% of the variation within breeds. Breed, genotype, cresty neck score, sex, age, and farm accounted for 45.5% of the variation in insulin, with genotype accounting for 7.1%. The HMGA2 A allele frequency was 62% and correlated with both height (parcor = -0.39; P < .001) and insulin (parcor = 0.22; P = .02). Pairwise comparisons found A/A ponies were >10 cm shorter than other genotypes. Compared with G/G individuals, A/A and G/A individuals had 4.3 μIU/mL (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8-10.5) and 2.7 μIU/mL (95% CI: 1.4-5.3) higher basal insulin concentrations, respectively. These data demonstrate the pleiotropic effects of the HMGA2:c.83G>A variant and its role in identifying ponies at increased risk for insulin dysregulation.

32 Exercise versus feed restriction: What is the most efficient weight loss option for your fat horse?

In first world countries, 45–75% of domesticated horses are considered overweight. Accumulation of excessive fat mass puts horses at risk for co-morbidities such as systemic inflammation and osteoarthritis. The objective was to characterize weight loss in overweight horses during 10 weeks of feed restriction, exercise, or both. Thirty-two horses, 4 geldings and 28 mares, mean age of 14 ± 4, with a body condition score (BCS) of at least 7/9, were fed controlled, individualized hay feedings 3 times a day with a concentrate meal. Diets were based on horse's body weight (BW) (kg) and calculated using FeedXL. Horses were randomly allocated into one of 4 treatment groups, Daily Exercise (E), Feed Restriction (FR), Feed Restriction & Daily Exercise (FRE), or unrestricted sedentary Control (C). The C and E horses were fed 100% of their Digestible Energy (DE) requirements, while FR and FRE horses were fed 85%. The E and FRE groups underwent submaximal unridden exercise, with a consistent working heart rate of 150 bpm, for 20 min, 5 times a week, with a walking warm-up and cooldown, with the approximate DE loss of 15% based on the NRC. In wk 1, 5 and 10, morphometric measurements were recorded, including BW (kg, via weight tape), cresty neck score (CN) (/5), whole body BCS (/9) and individual BCS (/9) for 8 different anatomical locations. Original mean BCS for all treatment groups was 7 ±0.2. Original BW (kg) for each of the treatment groups are as follows: C 486 ± 11, E 501 ± 11, FR 485 ± 12, and FRE 469 ± 11. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS Studio. Data were analyzed using 1-Way RM ANOVA for individual treatments and 2-Way RM ANOVA to determine significant (P ≤ 0.05) effects of and interactions between time and treatment. There was a reduction in BW across time for all groups (P < 0.0001). The mean weight loss (kg) for each treatment group are as follows: C 28kg, E 31kg, FR 27kg, FRE 36kg. The CN score was reduced in E and FRE horses (P = 0.01; P = 0.02). Whole body BCS was reduced in E (P < 0.0001), FR (P = 0.001) and FRE (P < 0.0001). Treatment group affected anatomical BCS of the tailhead and shoulder (P = 0.05 and P = 0.01), with FRE having the greatest reduction (P = 0.0005 and P = 0.001,). Anatomical BCS loss at the withers was found to have an interaction between time and treatment (P = 0.02). In conclusion, although all horses lost BW, there were differences in how the treatment groups lost fat mass, with exercise programs having a significant effect on the change in CN, tailhead and shoulder fat mass. Therefore, the most efficient weight loss program, is that of combining both daily exercise and feed restriction.

87 How challenging is it to find non-insulin dysregulated horses in an apparently clinically healthy herd of university horses?

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is associated with insulin dysregulation (ID), basal/postprandial hyperinsulinemia, and/or tissue insulin resistance, and puts equids at higher risk of laminitis. In the past, EMS animals were typically considered to have regional (e.g., cresty neck score CNS ≥ 3/5) or general obesity (body condition score [BCS] ≥ 7/9). However, it has increasingly been recognized that lean animals can also be ID. Basal/post prandial hyperinsulinemia is determined using an oral sugar test (OST). ID status may affect investigation outcomes. To ensure non-ID horses were selected for a larger nutrition study, a herd of university horses was screened for ID. Twenty mixed breed, mature horses (mean ± SD; 15.8 ± 5.7 yrs.) with no history of laminitis and were considered clinically healthy with stable BCS ranging from 3.6 to 7.5/9 were screened for ID status based on the 2022 Equine Endocrinology Group Recommendations for Diagnosis and Management of EMS. Morphological measurements were also taken. Except for one horse, the herd had not been on a regimented exercise program for at least 5 mo. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture before (T0) oral administration of Karo syrup lite (0.15mL/kg), and post-administration at 60 (T60) and 90 (T90) min. Serum was frozen until analysis for glucose and insulin (Antech Diagnostics, Fountain Valley, CA, USA). Data was analyzed using JMP and level of significance was setat P ≤ 0.05. BCS was not correlated with T0 insulin (R2 = 0.10, P = 0.17) but was correlated with CNS (R2 = 0.69, P < 0.001). Age was not correlated with T0 glucose (R2 = 0.02, P = 0.58) or insulin (R2 = 0.003, P = 0.82). The ID and non-ID populations differed in BCS (mean ± SD; 6.28 ± 1.01 vs 5.51 ± 0.87, respectively; Χ2, P = 0.045, Table 1), but due to considerable overlap in population ranges BCS alone was not sufficient to determine ID or non-ID status. Study limitations included a small sample size. This data supports the practice of using an OST to screen for ID status in potential research horses.

Visual Assessment of Adiposity in Elite Hunter Ponies.

Obesity is a critical problem in the equine industry, with ponies being at particularly high risk of developing obesity-related conditions such as metabolic syndrome and laminitis. The purpose of this study was to estimate the level of adiposity in an elite level of competitive show ponies, and to determine if adiposity was related to performance based on their model score (judged on conformation and appearance). Two researchers visually evaluated the body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS) of 377 ponies at a national hunter competition. Thirty five percent of the ponies in the competition were considered obese, with BCS scores of 7 or higher. Mean BCS of the ponies was 6.7 ± 0.6 with a range of 5.25 - 8.25 and mean CNS was 2.8 ± 0.6, with a range of 1.75 - 4.5. Medium ponies had higher BCS (P<0.0001) and higher CNS (P=0.015) than the large ponies. There was a tendency for a relationship between body condition score and the model score in all ponies (r=0.08; P=0.059), and this was stronger within the large ponies (r =0.20; P <0.01). These findings show that elite competition ponies are dangerously overweight and that adiposity may influence performance in a judged event. This is of grave concern to the horse industry and needs to be addressed.

Clustering and Correlations amongst NEFA, Selected Adipokines and Morphological Traits-New Insights into Equine Metabolic Syndrome.

Simple SummaryWhile adipokines’ involvement as biomarkers is better established in human pathology, little data are available on horses. This study aimed to investigate the possible association and relationship between selected metabolic parameters and morphological traits in equine metabolic syndrome. Spearman correlation, univariate linear regression, and hierarchical clustering were used to analyze the correlation between total cholesterol, insulin, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), adipokines and age, bodyweight, and general and local adiposity scores. NEFA correlated positively with low significance with bodyweight and adiposity scores, total cholesterol with bodyweight, and omentin with adiposity score. Cluster analysis supported these results and provided further insight into the relationships between studied variables within and between the four groups. These findings highlight NEFA, chemerin, and omentin as valuable biomarkers that could be further analyzed in other horse breeds for a better understanding of equine metabolic pathology.Obesity is a common feature in horses suffering from metabolic syndrome. While adipokines involvement as biomarkers is better established in human pathology, little data are available on horses. This study aimed to investigate the possible association and relationship between selected metabolic parameters and morphological traits in equine metabolic syndrome. Adiposity was evaluated using body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS). Plasma levels of total cholesterol, insulin, NEFA, and adipokines (omentin and chemerin) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Spearman correlation, univariate linear regression analysis and hierarchical clustering were performed. Significant positive correlations were observed between NEFA and bodyweight (r = 0.322; p = 0.006), BCS (r = 0.295; p = 0.013), and CNS (r = 0.267; p = 0.024), total cholesterol and bodyweight (r = 0.262; p = 0.027), and omentin and CNS (r = 0.234; p = 0.049). Cluster analysis supported these results and provided more details on the relationships between studied variables within and between the four resulting groups. These findings highlight NEFA, chemerin, and omentin as valuable biomarkers that could be further analyzed in other horse breeds for a better understanding of equine metabolic pathology.

Are Horse Owners Able to Estimate Their Animals' Body Condition Score and Cresty Neck Score?

Simple SummaryObesity and overconditioning are becoming more prevalent in horses and could be the cause behind various diseases. Evaluation of body condition scores (BCS) and cresty neck scores (CNS) are important tools used to assess the risk of obesity, and owners and caretakers should be able to correctly evaluate their animals. The aim of this study was to compare the ability of owners to correctly assess the BCS and CNS of their animals, comparing them with the scores given by an experienced examiner. In our population, overconditioning was present in 29% and 24% of horses according to the owners and the vet, respectively, while obesity was detected by the owners and the vet in 2% and 1% of cases, respectively. Agreement between the owners and the vet was slight for both body condition score and cresty neck score, and it was influenced by age, breed, gender, and activity of the horse. Education of owners and caretakers to correctly assess their animals is important to prevent the development of obesity and overconditioning and related diseases.Obesity and overconditioning are becoming more prevalent in horses, and are influencing the animal’s health, activity, and reproductive efficiency. Body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS) have been correlated with the development of various diseases. Many of the papers in the literature evaluate the prevalence of obesity and overconditioning in horse populations considering BCS given by owners. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of the owners’ estimation of the degree of equine obesity or overconditioning by comparing BCS and CNS provided by each owner and a board-certified vet to a cohort of 259 horses and their agreement based on age, breed, sex, and activity of the animals. Overconditioning was present in 29% and 24% of horses according to the owners and the vet, respectively, and obesity in 2% and 1%, respectively. Agreement between BCS and CNS given by the owners and the vet was slight, with owners scoring horses either lower or higher than the vet. Agreement between the owners and the vet assessment was also influenced by age, breed, sex, and activity of the animals. Education of owners and caretakers to correctly assess BCS and CNS and regular evaluation of the animals throughout the year is important to prevent the development of obesity and overconditioning and related diseases.