Understanding EMS in horses – how the EQUUSIR BIOS Horse Blanket can help
Patricia RathgebA healthy horse radiates calmness, balance, and energy. But what happens when the metabolic balance is disrupted, and fat deposits, decreased performance, or laminitis become apparent? Then the equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) could be present – a condition that affects many horses and is often underestimated.
In this article you will learn:
- what EMS in horses is exactly
- which symptoms, causes, and consequences it has,
- how holistic regulatory nervous system and metabolic management can help,
- and how the BIOS Horse Blanket can be used specifically as a supportive aid – for more balance, regeneration, and well-being.
EMS Checklist: First Steps for Horse Owners
Many horse owners feel overwhelmed when EMS is suspected. This step-by-step guide provides clarity and immediately offers clear courses of action.
How to properly manage EMS in 7 steps
- Contact a veterinarian and have blood values (e.g., fasting insulin, fasting glucose, ratio of triglycerides and cholesterol (HDL), homocysteine, ALT liver enzyme) determined.
- Check feeding – check the sugar content in the hay, adjust concentrated feed.
- Start an exercise plan – gently, regularly, without overexertion.
- Minimize stress factors – herd structure, stable quiet, routines.
- Stabilizing the nervous system – the use of the BIOS Horse Blanket starts here.
- Regular weight monitoring – measure and document weekly.
- Check progress – fitness, fat deposits, behavior, blood values.
What is EMS? An overview of causes and mechanisms.
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a metabolic disorder in horses – comparable to metabolic syndrome in humans. Every disease is fundamentally accompanied by metabolic changes that redistribute energy to the advantage of the body's survival systems and to the detriment of other systems. EMS is characterized by:
- Insulin resistance or increased insulin secretion, resulting in inadequate glucose utilization, and leptin resistance or increased leptin secretion.
- Formation of fat deposits in typical areas (e.g., mane, shoulder, croup).
- Lack of exercise and excessive energy intake – especially in cases of race- or age-specific predisposition.
- Increased risk of secondary diseases – especially the life-threatening laminitis.
Veterinary medical literature emphasizes: "EMS is one of the most important hormonal-metabolic diseases in horses." and cPNI (clinical psycho-neuro-immunology) states that metabolic, limited, restrictive inflammation is the basis of all diseases.
Thus, the system remains in a permanently pro-inflammatory state and becomes increasingly less responsive to signals, specifically cytokines. This also increases oxidative stress (i.e., stress within the cell).
Feeding for EMS: Do's & Don'ts
Since 80% of EMS cases are caused by incorrect energy intake, feeding is a key factor.
Do's – This is important for EMS:
- Hay with <10% sugar, ideally analyzed
- 1.5–2% of body weight per day (amount of hay)
- Protein-rich, but low-starch and low-sugar concentrated feed (if necessary)
- Mineral feed tailored to needs
- Hay nets to extend feeding time
Don'ts – things you should avoid:
- Grazing in spring/autumn or during frost
- Concentrated feed with grain, molasses, beet pulp
- Treats with sugar, fruit, bread, carrots ad libitum
- Long breaks between meals (>4 hours)
Feeding chart at a glance
| Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| hay | 1.5–2% body weight, <10% sugar |
| Concentrated feed | only when needed, grain-free |
| pasture | Muzzle required, summer-night grazing only |
| Snacks | unsweetened herbs, EMS treats |
| Additions | Magnesium, chromium (consult your veterinarian) |
Symptoms & Risks of EMS in Horses
Warning signs to watch out for
- Excess weight or visible fat deposits on the shoulder, croup, and mane.
- Abnormal metabolic values (e.g., elevated fasting insulin levels).
- Early signs of laminitis: lame gait, increased hoof activity.
- Decline in performance, fatigue, less enjoyment of movement.
- Behavioral changes (e.g., more nervous behavior) as an indication of metabolic stress.
Why the risk is serious
EMS isn't simply "just a little overweight." It alters hormones, metabolic pathways, and the nervous system. The consequences can range from laminitis to other conditions, and this is often where the critical point arises.
⚠️ Emergency: Impending laminitis – what you must do IMMEDIATELY
Laminitis is one of the most dangerous consequences of EMS. Acting early saves lives.
Warning signs of impending deer:
- noticeable warmth in the hooves
- Cling, cautious gait
- Avoiding tight turns
- increased lying down
- Pulsation in the toe arteries
First steps in case of suspicion:
- Immediately place the animal in stall rest.
- Cooling the hooves (water, bucket, ice, 20–30 minutes)
- No concentrated feed, no grazing
- Alert the veterinarian
- BIOS Blanket: RELAX/REGENERATE for stabilizing the nervous system
Taking a holistic approach to EMS – 4 pillars for regulation
To ensure your horse can live as well as possible with EMS, it needs more than just nutrition. A holistic approach is essential for long-term success. Above all, the metabolism is challenged by EMS. To best support it, you have the following options.
Pillar 1: Nutrition & Feeding
- Low-energy and low-starch rations – e.g., low-sugar, grain-free hay.
- Feeding adapted to movement (less energy with less movement).
- Feeding control: Avoid obesity, promote the reduction of fat deposits.
Pillar 2: Movement & Management
- Regular exercise activates muscle metabolism and improves insulin sensitivity.
- Avoid overexertion – especially with EMS horses: start gently and increase gradually.
- Stable management: Reduce stress, allow rest periods.
Pillar 3: Nervous System & Stress Management
The autonomic nervous system also plays a major role in metabolism. Stress, tension, or overexertion put a strain on metabolic pathways and can impair insulin action. A publication describes how metabolic and nervous system disorders can occur together.
Therefore important:
- Relaxation phases and regeneration time.
- Technologies that specifically support the nervous system and vital functions.
Pillar 4: Supportive Technologies & Regeneration
This is where the product comes into play: The BIOS Horse Blanket uses gentle impulses to stimulate the autonomic nervous system and related vital functions. It complements nutrition and exercise by acting on the body's regulatory level.
How the BIOS Horse Blanket can specifically help with EMS
The BIOS Horse Blanket from EQUUSIR is based on the principle of neurovegetative “bio-stimulation”.
Overview of the operating principle
- Electromagnetic impulses in the ELF range (3-30 Hz) affect the autonomic nervous system.
- The impulses influence control functions of the heart, respiration, muscle tone, circulation – precisely those systems that are affected by metabolic stress.
- The application is simple, gentle and can be performed regularly – without habituation or invasive procedures.
Specific starting points for EMS
- Promoting microcirculation and vital processes – important in metabolic disorders.
- Supporting regulation after exertion or stress (e.g., after training, illness).
- Promoting rest and regeneration – a stable and well-regulated nervous system relieves the metabolic system.
- Supplement to nutrition and exercise measures – not instead of, but in addition to.
Practical advice on application
- Use the blanket strategically: e.g., after active phases or during rest periods.
- Pay attention to a consistent routine – apply regularly and consistently.
- Combine with the four pillars (nutrition, exercise, nervous system, technology).
- Supervision by a veterinarian or specialist remains important – the blanket does not replace veterinary care.
BIOS application plan specifically for EMS horses
The BIOS Horse Blanket supports vital functions, the nervous system, and regeneration. In cases of EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome), the chronic metabolic stress makes it particularly suitable for use.
14-day start plan for EMS horses
| day | program | Length of time | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | CALM | 30 min | Calm the nervous system |
| 4–7 | REGENERATE | 30 min | Metabolic regeneration |
| 8–10 | RELAX | 30 min | Balance stress levels |
| 11–14 | CALM + VITALIZE | 30 minutes each | VITALIZE (before training), CALM (after training) |
Why BIOS is so effective, especially with EMS:
- Horses with EMS often experience stress in their autonomic nervous system.
- The vagus nerve is crucial for metabolic regulation.
- BIOS addresses precisely these axes via neuroreceptors.
- Regeneration is promoted, muscle metabolism is stabilized.
Success stories & testimonials
Frequently asked questions about EMS and the BIOS Horse Blanket
Can EMS be cured?
EMS is not always completely "curable," but it can be well managed—especially if detected early and treated consistently. The BIOS blanket can help alleviate symptoms and stress, but it does not replace nutrition and exercise.
Who should be more cautious?
In cases of acute laminitis, severely damaged hooves, or other serious illnesses, initial veterinary care is required before any supplementary measures are implemented.
How quickly does the BIOS ceiling take effect?
It depends on the initial condition. Many users report noticeable improvements within a few weeks of regular use. Consistency is key.
Is the application safe and compliant with doping regulations?
Yes – the BIOS blanket is anti-doping compliant (ADMR) and free of side effects.
Conclusion – A systematic approach to better balance in horses with EMS
EMS requires a conscious and consistent approach: nutrition, exercise, nervous system regulation, and supportive technologies. The BIOS Horse Blanket is not a miracle cure – but a high-quality supplement that specifically targets regulatory and vital functions that are already under considerable strain during metabolic stress.
If you want to help your horse regain its balance in the long term, then a holistic approach is key. And the BIOS Horse Blanket plays an important role in this.
Your next step
Discover the BIOS Horse Blanket from EQUUSIR now
We are happy to assist you and provide individual advice to determine the appropriate treatment for your horse with EMS.
Start today with the four pillars – nutrition, exercise, nervous system and technology – so that your horse is on the way to more balance and well-being.
