24/08/2026
With spring just around the corner, now is a great time to take a closer look at your horse or pony’s condition — especially those very efficient “good doers”! 😅
But how can you tell if your horse may be carrying a little too much weight or could be at increased risk of laminitis (founder)?
👀 Things to look out for:
🐴 A cresty neck — particularly a firm or pronounced crest along the top of the neck.
🤏 Ribs that are difficult to feel — ideally you should be able to feel your horse’s ribs with light pressure, even if you can’t clearly see them.
🍑 Fat deposits around the tailhead or a noticeably rounded rump.
💪 Fat pads around the shoulders or behind the withers.
⚖️ Overall weight gain — using a weight tape regularly can help you notice gradual changes that aren’t always obvious day-to-day.
🌱 A history of laminitis/founder or being an extremely easy keeper can also mean your horse needs closer management as spring pasture starts coming through.
Spring grass can be particularly challenging for horses and ponies with insulin dysregulation, so prevention and early management are important.
Things such as careful pasture management, grazing muzzles, slow-feed hay nets, appropriate low-sugar feeding and maintaining a healthy body condition can all form part of a spring management plan.
We also have a range of metabolic and weight-management products available in store to complement your horse’s feeding program. Pop in and chat to the Saddleworld Launceston team about the options available. 💚
⚠️ If you’re concerned your horse may be at risk of laminitis, has developed a cresty neck or unusual fat deposits, or is showing signs of sore feet, contact your veterinarian for advice.