Advice on crestiness

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pottamus

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My Sec D can get a little cresty at the top of his neck at times and I was wondering if it is possible to get rid of it or reduce it in any way?
It is not bowed but it 'thick' at the top, if you know what I mean.
I always try to keep him as slim as possible through ridden work, strip grazing and using last years hay when he needs it. He has been off work for 4 months due to me damaging my back, so is carrying a bit more weight than I would like...he currently weigh tapes at 510kg and the lowest he has ever been is 498kg when doing endurance each week and 25 miles hacking in addition each week!!!!
I am bringing us both back into work as we speak so that will help too over time...but just wondered if anyone had experience of reducing crests?
Thanks for your help.
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I have no tips in crest removal other than general weight loss. I have been told by a number of 'old horsemen' that, if the crest feels hard, your horse is at great risk of laminitis.
I don't know if it's true though.
Good luck with the crest reduction.
S
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Nope, Chex crest seems determined to stay
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. I think I'm stuck with it now, it seems to be the last place he'll lose weight, and the first place he'll put it on
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. If you find a miracle cure - let me know
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MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTATION AND THE FEEDING OF “CRESTY” AND/OR LAMINITIC/PRECUSHINGS HORSES.

A report on available anecdotal and scientific studies by Vicki Glasgow of Harbro Ltd--sorry cant find this on line

Supplementation with magnesium has been shown to decrease insulin resistance in humans with Type 2 Diabetes. Overweight horses and those prone to laminitis, may have increased insulin resistance. Studies in the states have shown that supplementation with magnesium and Chromium (unfortunately not permitted in the UK) can reduce insulin resistance and therefore cresty necks and deposits of fat at the tail rump etc. Antioxidants (vitamin E and Selenium) are also important as they improve immune function and reduce free radical damage.

The ratios of calcium to magnesium are important to consider and traditionally a ratio of 2:1 Ca:Mg has been recommended. However, for “treatment levels 1:1 is recommended. What must be avoided is a slippage in the opposite direction. This can lead to muscle function problems as too much Calcium can upset the balance required for proper muscle function. Most diets are too high in calcium.

As far as your horses are concerned--if it aint broke dont fix it!!

But just be aware--my pony was always cresty but not overweight, he started becoming prone to laminitis at 18yrs. I had always felt he had slight metabolic problems but my vet did not think there was anything to worry about.
He has restricted grazing, soaked hay, Hi Fi lite, Speedibeet Top Spec Antilam, 2tsps Mag oxide a day plus agnus castis which keeps him right most of the time
The Yahoo Group The metabolic Horse is brilliant
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/TheMetabolicHorse/
 
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