Nutritional considerations for equine rhabdomyolysis syndrome

Exertional rhabdomyolysis represents a syndrome of typically recurrent exercise-associated muscle damage in horses that arises from a variety of aetiologies. Major advances have been made in recent years in our understanding of the pathophysiology of equine rhabdomyolysis syndrome (ERS), and a few specific causative genetic defects have been identified. Despite the fact that there is no single procedure or set of procedures (including diet and management) that can guarantee against further episodes of ERS, appropriate management of susceptible individuals, including nutrition, may help to reduce the likelihood, severity or frequency of future episodes. Whilst the dietary advice can be more specific and targeted for those with a known intrinsic muscle problem, for all affected individuals, regardless of the underlying cause, a balanced diet (which is suitable for the individual), together with a well-designed exercise programme, should be the initial management target. This paper will briefly review the condition and give general nutrition and management advice.