A survey of the equestrian industry about views on equine obesity, has shown that those who work with horses believe that lack of knowledge is a primary cause of overweight horses and ponies and that the problem can be addressed.

The survey, conducted by the makers of SPILLERS last month, was completed by 638 industry professionals including riding instructors/coaches (32%), yard managers/grooms (24%), physiotherapists/osteopaths/chiropractors (15%) and vets/vet nurses (13%).

The aim was to increase understanding of the multifaceted issues surrounding equine obesity, in order to provide actionable recommendations for effective intervention strategies.

An overwhelming 83% of respondents encountered obesity either ‘very frequently’ or ‘somewhat frequently’. Notably, 30% of show judges reported encountering obesity ‘very frequently’ (the lowest group %) compared to 79% of vets (the highest group %).

The survey found that the primary causes of obesity included lack of knowledge and insufficient exercise. 83% of respondents believed there was insufficient awareness of equine obesity among UK horse owners.

The majority (81%) of respondents believed that obesity significantly decreased wellbeing of horses. Zero respondents believed it had no significant impact.

“The survey has given us valuable knowledge from industry professionals on how they and their clients perceive the problem of obesity,” said Bella Fricker, project lead at Mars Horsecare.

“With better clarity about how positive changes can be made we hope to move forward with some new educational projects to give further support to horse owners and industry professionals from recognition, management and prevention perspectives. We want to banish equine obesity for good and we hope that by working together we can make change happen.”