20. How to Feed a Horse with PSSM

Mad Barn Academy

Equine polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM or EPSM) is a genetic condition in horses that affects how muscle cells store sugars. This can lead to exercise intolerance, stiffness, and an abnormal gait in your horse. After diagnosis, owners often notice signs, such as tail swishing, behavioural changes, and slight performance reductions indicating mild tying-up.

Horses with PSSM are at higher risk of tying-up, also known as exertional rhabdomyolysis. These episodes cause significant pain and are characterized by stiff, firm muscles along with profuse sweating and reluctance to move. In severe cases, the breakdown of muscle tissue can affect kidney function and can be fatal.

The best way to manage PSSM horses is to provide a forage-first low-sugar and starch diet and meet additional energy requirements with dietary fat. A consistent exercise routine can also help promote glycogen breakdown in the muscle.

Dietary management can have a significant positive impact on the health and comfort of PSSM horses, and help to minimize the need for costly veterinary care.

Wondering how to best feed your PSSM horse? Listen to this podcast!

Read more: https://madbarn.com/pssm-in-horses/
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