As we move from summer to fall, and temperatures at night start to cool, subtle changes begin to occur in our horses. 

Shorter days trigger powerful hormonal shifts, often before we even notice. Those shifts play an essential role in the health of our horses- especially those with metabolic conditions.

Hormone Shifts and Metabolism

Seasonal hormone shifts influence how horses process sugar, maintain muscle, and manage inflammation. In fall, ACTH levels naturally rise, increasing cortisol to drive fat storage and coat growth in preparation for winter. When those hormones remain elevated for too long, however, problems like delayed shedding, thick coats, sweating, muscle loss, inflammation, and a higher risk of laminitis may emerge.

Fall as a High-Risk Season

Far more horses tend to experience metabolic flare-ups in the fall as it brings a dangerous mix of hormonal shifts, fat storage, and higher pasture sugar levels, all of which raise the risk for equine metabolic syndrome and PPID. As horses naturally conserve energy and build fat reserves before winter, insulin resistance also tends to worsen.

Testing and Diagnosis

A single test showing high ACTH in fall is not enough to diagnose PPID. As ACTH naturally rises seasonally, it is essential to use multiple test results, and get a complete health profile before deciding on lifelong medication. 

Insulin, Inflammation, and Weight

Insulin is fundamentally a fat-storage hormone. If it is high, horses cannot lose weight. Chronic inflammation from laminitis or hoof pathologies drives insulin even higher, and elevated cortisol keeps blood sugar high, locking horses into a state of fat storage. That combination often causes gain weight and soreness in the fall.

Diet and Forage Management

Careful forage management is the foundation of supporting metabolic horses. Prioritize low-sugar hay and limit access to rich pasture, especially during high-risk seasons, like fall. Slow feeders, soaking hay, and controlled turnout can all help regulate sugar intake. Consistency in diet not only stabilizes insulin and energy levels but also reduces the risk of flare-ups.

Lifestyle and Stress

Stress management is as important as diet. Horses need freedom to move, regular forage, and companionship to regulate their cortisol levels and maintain metabolic balance. Stalled or isolated horses, or horses with long gaps between feedings suffer higher stress levels, which compounds hormone problems, and no supplement can overcome the damage caused by chronic stress and inappropriate living conditions.

Long-Term Management

Consistency is essential. Progress may seem slow at times, but steady attention to low-sugar forage, regular exercise, and stress reduction leads to lasting improvements. Expect seasonal setbacks, but they will be temporary. Over time, consistent care helps horses rebuild their health and resilience.

Hormonal Considerations in Mares

Mares can be susceptible to seasonal hormonal shifts. Changes in daylight and hormone levels often affect their cycles, behavior, and comfort. For mares with metabolic issues, those fluctuations may add another layer of stress, making careful monitoring and consistent management even more essential.

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