Question

I own a seven-year-old Belgian gelding diagnosed with polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM). I feed him Re-Leve and hay three times a day. He is stalled at all times. Is he getting sufficient fat to help his PSSM or should I add more fat in the form of corn oil?

Answer

It is difficult to discuss dietary recommendations without knowing specific amounts and types of feed and hay you’re feeding and without knowing the body condition of your horse.

Generally speaking, if your gelding is maintaining his weight on his current diet, then he is likely receiving optimal nutrition for his condition, considering Re-Leve was formulated with muscle problems such as PSSM in mind. When reviewing various feeds for your gelding, the percentage of calories from fat sources is the most important factor, not the total amount of fat in the feed. Re-Leve derives about 30% of its calories from fat, and this is ideal for a horse with a diagnosis of PSSM.

Exercise management is a large part of managing a PSSM-affected horse. In your question, you mention that your horse is kept stalled all day. This would be appropriate if he is recovering from an episode of PSSM. However, if he has not had an episode recently, it is important to allow the horse as much turnout as possible, preferably with other horses as this will encourage movement. Return to work requires a careful, thoughtful approach. An example of an appropriate exercise plan can be found here.