Ponies are notorious for seeming to gain weight by even looking at a lush grassy pasture, but some of the more active ones or those in heavier work need more energy than what’s supplied via forage alone to maintain a good body condition. | Photo: iStock

Ponies are notorious for seeming to gain weight by even looking at a lush grassy pasture, but some of the more active ones need more energy than what’s supplied via forage alone. But how do you keep these insulin-resistance-prone equids in good body condition without causing their glucose to rise, potentially leading to metabolic issues?

German researchers say a specialized museli mix might be your best bet.

In their recent study a low-starch, high-fat and -fiber muesli mix gave sports ponies enough energy to perform well and maintain body condition while reducing blood glucose levels after meals. That mix also kept ponies chewing meals longer, prolonging the feeding time and increasing saliva production, which contribute to good digestion