Hi and a question

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Fourponies

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Hi I've been lurking on the forum for a while now and have finally taken the plunge to join. I have a question for those of you with a horse/pony with EMS. One of mine looks like she has EMS - she is fine in herself, just a very odd shape, bot belly, fat pads on rump - and my vet agrees and suggested a test. So the question is has anyone had this test done, how much did it cost (if you don't mind me asking), and if EMS was confirmed, what happened next ie. medication etc. I would really appreciate any replies. Many thanks X
 
I thik the cost of the test may depend on where you are in the counrty. Vet rates seem to vary!
Are there any other symptoms as it doesn't sound typical. As a cynic (and heartfelt apologies to the good vets out there) but tests provide good revenue for vets and some will agree with any possible diagnosis if it means they can charge for more tests to disprove it.

PS; There is some interesting research going on at the moment into equine diabetes with a theory that many of the fat ponies that put on weight by just breathing may have a form of diabetes. Jury is still out and final analysis of results have yet to be documented.
 
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Hi Classicalfan, thanks for your reply. She really has quite a large belly but her ribs are visible, she has fat pads on her hips, just above the tail and a bit above the eye. She's had laminitis in the past (three years ago in the winter). I strip graze her (very small amount of old pasture morning and evening) and feed soaked hay. She also get sugar free chaff, magnesium, salt and a good quality multi vit and min supplement. She is also lunged four times a week and is full of energy! Any more info from anyone would be very useful. I'm not sure if a test is the way to go or not. Thanks x
 
Hi,
I lurked for a while before typing anything.There are some very knowledgable people on here,so you are in the right place for advice! Did you post this in Veterinary as well?
Also have a look at forageplus and consider getting your hay tested. It sounds as if you are feeding all the right stuff, but the people at forageplus are very knowledgable and might be able to offer some advice.
Here is a link....I hope!
http://www.performancebarefoot.co.uk/forageplusbespokehorsenutrition.html
 
Hi abitodd,
until Friday I was feeding cattle grade hay (last year's) and soaking it. I've had to start using this year's hay and am soaking the life out of it – she's not keen though! (luckily I have managed to find a very small amount of last year's hay) Thanks for your advice, I'll check out the link and post this in veterinary too.
 
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