Researchers studied 32 overweight horses to find the best way to help them lose weight over 10 weeks. Some horses exercised, some ate less food, some did both, and some stayed the same weight as a control group. They measured weight and fat in different body areas like the neck, ribs, and shoulders. All groups lost weight, but horses that exercised—especially those that both exercised and ate less—lost fat from specific areas that are linked to health problems in overweight horses. This suggests that exercise is important for helping horses lose weight in healthier ways.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether different combinations of exercise and reduced food intake help overweight horses lose weight, and where on their bodies they lose fat
  • Who participated: 32 overweight horses randomly divided into four groups: one that exercised only, one that ate less food only, one that both exercised and ate less, and one control group that maintained their current weight and activity
  • Key finding: All horses lost weight over 10 weeks, but only horses that exercised lost fat from specific problem areas (like the neck crest and tailhead) that are connected to metabolic health issues in overweight horses
  • What it means for you: If you have an overweight horse, adding exercise to a weight-loss plan appears more effective than just reducing food alone for improving overall health, though all approaches resulted in weight loss

The Research Details

This was a controlled experiment where researchers randomly assigned 32 overweight horses to four different groups for 10 weeks. One group exercised five times per week while eating their normal amount of food. Another group ate 15% less food but didn’t exercise. A third group both exercised five times per week and ate 15% less food. The fourth group (control) maintained their normal eating and activity levels. Researchers measured each horse’s weight and fat deposits in eight different body locations (neck, shoulder, leg, withers, ribs, back, haunches, and tailhead) at the beginning, middle, and end of the study. Each horse received a personalized diet plan to meet their individual nutritional needs.

This research design is important because it allows researchers to compare three different weight-loss strategies against a control group, showing which approach works best. By measuring fat in specific body areas rather than just overall weight, the study reveals where horses lose fat and whether that loss happens in health-critical areas. This detailed approach helps horse owners understand that weight loss alone doesn’t guarantee healthy fat loss.

This study was published in a peer-reviewed veterinary journal, meaning other experts reviewed the research before publication. The researchers used a randomized controlled design, which is considered a strong research method. They measured multiple body areas rather than relying on a single measurement, providing more detailed information. However, the sample size of 32 horses is relatively modest, and the study only lasted 10 weeks, so longer-term effects remain unknown.

What the Results Show

All four groups—including the control group that didn’t change their diet or exercise—showed significant reductions in overall weight and body condition score over the 10 weeks. This was somewhat surprising for the control group. However, when researchers looked at specific fat deposits, important differences emerged. Horses that exercised (with or without reduced food intake) lost fat from the neck crest and tailhead areas, which are known problem areas in overweight horses that contribute to metabolic health issues. Horses that only reduced food intake without exercising did not show these specific fat losses in these critical areas, even though they lost overall weight. The group that combined both exercise and reduced food intake showed the most comprehensive fat loss across multiple body areas.

All groups showed fat loss in the back, haunches, legs, and shoulders. Horses in the food-restriction groups (with and without exercise) lost rib fat. Only horses that exercised showed reductions in the neck crest score, which is particularly important because excess fat in this area is linked to metabolic problems in horses. The exercise-only group and the combined exercise-and-food-restriction group both showed tailhead fat loss, suggesting that exercise specifically targets these metabolically important fat deposits.

This research builds on existing knowledge that overweight horses have higher rates of metabolic problems. Previous studies suggested that where a horse stores fat matters as much as how much fat they carry. This study provides specific evidence supporting that idea by showing that exercise helps remove fat from areas most linked to health problems. The finding that all groups lost weight—even the control group—is noteworthy and suggests that the controlled feeding and measurement process itself may have contributed to weight loss.

The study only lasted 10 weeks, so researchers cannot say whether these results continue over longer periods. The sample size of 32 horses is relatively small, which limits how broadly these findings apply to all horses. The study doesn’t specify the exact type, intensity, or duration of exercise used, making it harder for horse owners to replicate the exercise program. Additionally, the study doesn’t measure other health markers like insulin levels or inflammation, so the actual health benefits of the fat loss remain inferred rather than directly measured.

The Bottom Line

If your horse is overweight, evidence suggests that adding exercise to a weight-management plan appears more effective than diet alone for losing fat in health-critical areas. A combination of moderate exercise (about five times per week) and modest food reduction (about 15% less) showed the most comprehensive benefits. However, any weight loss approach should be discussed with your veterinarian, as individual horses have different needs. Confidence level: Moderate—this is a well-designed study, but larger and longer studies would strengthen these conclusions.

Horse owners with overweight horses should pay attention to this research, especially if their horses show signs of metabolic problems. Equine veterinarians and nutritionists can use this information to guide weight-loss recommendations. This research is less relevant for horses at healthy weights or for other animals. People managing horses with specific health conditions should consult their veterinarian before starting any new exercise or diet program.

Significant weight loss and fat redistribution appeared within 10 weeks in this study. However, horses may continue to improve beyond this timeframe. Realistic expectations are that noticeable changes in body condition and fat deposits should appear within 8-12 weeks of consistent exercise and appropriate feeding, though individual horses may vary.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track your horse’s weight weekly using a weight tape and photograph your horse from the same angles every two weeks to monitor visible fat loss in the neck, ribs, and tailhead areas. Record exercise frequency and duration (aim for 5 sessions per week) and note any changes in energy level or behavior.
  • Set a goal to add structured exercise to your horse’s routine five times per week if not already doing so. This could include riding, lunging, or hand-walking. Simultaneously, work with your veterinarian to adjust feed portions to about 85% of current amounts. Use the app to set reminders for exercise sessions and feeding times to maintain consistency.
  • Create a long-term tracking system that records weekly weight measurements, monthly body condition scores in specific areas (especially neck crest and tailhead), and exercise logs. Take monthly photos to visually track progress. Set check-in points at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks to assess whether your horse is losing fat from the right areas and adjust the program if needed.

This research provides evidence about weight-loss strategies in horses, but it should not replace professional veterinary advice. Before starting any weight-loss program, exercise routine, or dietary changes for your horse, consult with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist. Individual horses have different health conditions, ages, and needs that require personalized assessment. This study lasted only 10 weeks, so long-term effects are unknown. If your horse has existing health conditions, metabolic disorders, or is on medications, professional guidance is especially important before making changes to their care.