11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Struggling to keep weight on an ulcerprone horse without lighting the starch fuse? Heres a simple, ulcersafe plan showing exactly how much micronised linseed to feed300400 g/day of a 3540% oil, ~4% starch seedalongside BETAapproved fibre, so you gain steady condition, topline and shine within weeks. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Micronised Linseed What To Do: Choose micronised linseed over plain oil to add calories, omega3 and quality protein. Feed it daily alongside foragebased meals. Why It Matters: It builds condition and topline with low starch and added fibre for gut comfort. Common Mistake: Relying on linseed oil alone and missing the fibre/protein that support digestion. Area: Set Feeding Rate What To Do: Start at 50120 g/day and increase every 34 days towards 0.60.8 g/kg BW/day (300400 g/day for 500 kg), split across meals. Cap total linseed products at about 454 g/day. Why It Matters: Gradual increases improve tolerance and deliver safe calorie gains. Common Mistake: Jumping straight to high amounts, causing loose droppings or refusals. Area: FibreFirst Ration What To Do: Base the diet on adlib forage and a BETAapproved, lowstarch, highfibre feed (<8% starch, <6.5% sugar). Add beet pulp or soya hulls for extra superfibre calories. Why It Matters: Fibre buffers stomach acid and reduces ulcer flareups while supplying steady energy. Common Mistake: Using cerealheavy mixes or whole grains that spike starch intake. Area: Add Gut Support What To Do: Include a gut balancer with pectin/lecithin, especially around training or after omeprazole. Offer a small fibre feed 2030 minutes preride for buffering. Why It Matters: Extra protection supports the squamous lining and rideable comfort. Common Mistake: Skipping preride fibre or micronutrients, then blaming linseed for discomfort. Area: Weigh and Split What To Do: Weigh your product once (e.g., 150 ml 80 g) and feed 23 times/day. Adjust scoop counts to hit targets accurately. Why It Matters: Accurate dosing prevents under or overconditioning and gut upsets. Common Mistake: Guessing scoop weights or dumping the full amount in one feed. Area: Monitor & Adjust What To Do: Check droppings, coat, rib cover and girth weekly; change linseed by 50100 g steps as needed. Swap to linseed meal if oiliness softens droppings. Why It Matters: Small, timely tweaks keep gains steady without gut compromise. Common Mistake: Leaving the ration unchanged despite loose stools or rapid weight gain. Area: Seasonal Management What To Do: In autumn/winter, keep forage consistent and use rugs to stay warm and dry so calories build condition. Maintain cool work energy with linseed instead of cereals. Why It Matters: Reduced heat loss means more feed goes to weight and topline. Common Mistake: Underrugging or irregular forage, then overfeeding starch to catch up. Area: Choose Omega3 Oil What To Do: If using oil, pick linseed/flax oil and/or replace some oil with micronised linseed. Avoid corn oil high in omega6. Why It Matters: An omega3 bias supports antiinflammatory balance and coat shine. Common Mistake: Adding corn oil and increasing dietary omega6 load. In This Guide Why linseed works for ulcer-prone horses Micronised linseed vs oil: which builds weight better? How much linseed to feed and how to start What to feed with linseed for ulcersafe gains UK seasons: when linseed earns its keep Monitoring results and what to avoid Practical feeding plans you can copy Quality and compliance: British standards to trust Struggling to keep condition on an ulcer-prone horse without lighting the starch fuse? Linseed especially in micronised form is one of the safest, most effective ways to add calories, omega-3 and quality protein without upsetting a sensitive gut.Key takeaway: For ulcer-prone horses, feed micronised linseed (3540% oil, low starch) alongside a BETA-approved, high-fibre, low-starch ration to promote steady weight gain, topline and a glossy coat.Why linseed works for ulcer-prone horsesLinseed provides high calories from oil with very low starch, plus soluble fibre and omega3s that support a healthy, calmer digestive system. This makes it a top choice for building condition without aggravating Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS).Ulcer management hinges on fibre-first feeding. As Horse & Hound advises: A horse with diagnosed or suspected gastric ulcers should receive a high-fibre, high-forage diet that contains little or no whole cereal grains.Linseed (flax) delivers just that: energy from fat, not cereals, and a naturally antiinflammatory omega3 profile. Whole or micronised linseed typically contains 3540% oil, around 4% starch and approximately 22% protein per the meal component, whereas extracted linseed oil is pure oil with no protein or fibre. That balance helps ulcer-prone horses maintain weight, coat and topline while keeping stomach acid buffered by forage and soluble fibre.For owners replacing cereals with safer calories, researchers conclude linseed byproducts can be safely used with other fibre sources:Linseed by-products (linseed groats 0.8 g/kg BW/d) combined with other fibre sources can be safely used... in feeding strategies replacing grains in the horses rations in order to reduce the intake of starch. PMC studyMicronised linseed vs oil: which builds weight better?Micronised linseed generally builds weight better than oil alone because it delivers 3540% oil plus fibre and roughly 22% protein, whereas plain linseed oil is 100% fat with no protein or fibre.Micronisation gently cooks the seed to improve digestibility, preserving the valuable oil while providing soluble fibre and amino acids essential for muscle and topline. By contrast, linseed oil offers calories but none of the fibre or protein that supports healthy digestion and steady condition. If youre feeding an ulcerprone horse, those added fibre fractions matter for buffering and gut comfort.Key numbers you can use:Micronised linseed/linseed meal: ~3540% oil, ~4% starch, ~22% protein. A 150 ml scoop weighs ~80 g.Linseed oil: 100% oil (no protein, no starch).Linseed meal (after oil extraction): averages ~12% fat and ~36% protein; useful as a protein topup but lower in omega3 than whole/micronised linseed.For omega balance, linseed leads the field. As Equinutritive notes:For an almost perfect balance of Omega3 and Omega6 fatty acids, linseed/flax oil has proven itself to be the oil of choice... Beyond being ingested as an oil, it can be provided in the form of micronised linseed.Compared with corn oil (high in proinflammatory omega6), linseeds omega3 bias is a better match for daytoday conditioning, coat shine and overall digestive comfort.How much linseed to feed and how to startSafe feeding rates are 0.8 g/kg bodyweight/day for linseed groats (about 400 g for a 500 kg horse) and up to 454 g/day of linseed products in total; start at 50120 g/day and increase gradually over 1014 days.Follow this simple, evidenceled plan:Start low: 50120 g/day of micronised linseed (or 3060 ml/day of oil) mixed into a dampened, foragebased meal.Build slowly: Increase every 34 days, aiming for 0.60.8 g/kg BW/day (e.g., 300400 g/day for a 500 kg horse), split across two or three feeds.Upper practical limit: 454 g/day total linseed products is a sensible ceiling for most horses in work.Monitor tolerance: If droppings soften, hold or reduce the dose; switch to loweroil linseed meal if needed.Weigh accurately: A 150 ml scoop of linseed meal is approx. 80 g. Weigh your specific product once to confirm.In a controlled trial, feeding linseed groats at 0.8 g/kg BW/day (about 6.36.7% of diet dry matter) improved crude protein and fat digestibility in hayoats diets without adverse effects on blood parameters or health (PMC).Quick tip: Pair linseed with a comprehensive balancer or vitaminmineral supplement to keep micronutrients aligned as calories increase. Explore our curated range of horse supplements and gut balancers to support the transition.What to feed with linseed for ulcersafe gainsCombine linseed with a highforage, highfibre ration thats low in starch (<8%) and sugar (<6.5%), ideally with BETA approval for horses prone to gastric ulcers.Forage (hay, haylage, turnout) should be the backbone, offered adlib where possible to keep the stomach tricklefed. Your bucket feeds should be fibrebased, low in cereal content and fortified with quality protein sources for topline. Look for the BETA Suitable for Horses and Ponies Prone to Gastric Ulcers mark to simplify your shortlist; as Baileys explains, this approval helps owners identify the right feeds for EGUSprone horses.Examples of good companions to linseed include:BETAapproved conditioning fibres (e.g., Dengie Performance Fibre at 11.5 MJ/kg) to supply slowrelease energy and support weight gain.Super fibres like beet pulp and soya hulls for extra calories from digestible fibre, not cereals.Gutcomforting addons like pectin and lecithin, especially postomeprazole, to help protect the squamous lining.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend selecting a fibre base with starch around 68% and a superior amino acid profile (lysine-first) to build muscle over the topline. Pair that with 300400 g/day of micronised linseed for most 500 kg horses in regular work and adjust every 1014 days based on weight and droppings.Pro tip: If you already use oil, consider switching part or all of that volume to micronised linseed for the added fibre and protein. Youll often see steadier condition, better droppings and more rideable energy.UK seasons: when linseed earns its keepThrough UK autumn and winter, linseed supplies safe extra calories during the hunger gap when grass quality dips, without adding cereal starch that can unsettle a sensitive stomach.Wet British winters and frequent stabling challenge condition: forage can vary week to week, turnout is reduced and some horses lose cover fast. Linseed is easy to mix into fibre feeds, with a palatable taste most horses accept straight away. Because its oilbased energy, it also supports those who need cool calories for hacking, lessons or hunting in cold, blustery weather without adding fizziness.Make comfort a priority when the weather turns: suitable rugs help your calories go further by reducing energy lost to thermoregulation. Explore our range of winter turnout rugs for mudproof protection and our cosy stable rugs for chilled nights on the yard.For performance horses keeping their edge in variable weather, Horse & Hound highlights the value of oilbased energy in ulcersafe feeds a useful nudge for those wet and windy schooling blocks.Monitoring results and what to avoidExpect a shinier coat and more cover over the ribs and topline within a few weeks; reduce the dose or switch to loweroil linseed meal if droppings soften or weight gains too quickly.What to watch:Positive signs: glossier coat, better skin, easier weight maintenance, improved rideability (less starchspike behaviour).Neutral checks: energy level remains cool and consistent; saddle still fits as topline changes.Red flags: loose droppings, greasy coat, or too much condition dial back linseed or split into more feeds; consider moving from whole/micronised to higherprotein, loweroil linseed meal if needed.Coat condition often improves quickly with omega3 support. Keep on top of external care too: regular grooming lifts natural oils to the surface and can magnify that linseed shine. Our grooming collection has everything you need to finish the picture from curry combs to coat sprays.If your horse has a clinical history of EGUS, work with your vet or nutritionist on quantities and timing, particularly around training and competition days. Linseed pairs well with preride fibre feeds to help buffer stomach contents.Practical feeding plans you can copyFor a 500 kg ulcerprone horse, a proven starting plan is adlib forage, a BETAapproved lowstarch fibre feed, 300400 g/day micronised linseed split between meals, and a gut balancer containing pectin/lecithin.Use these sample templates and adapt every fortnight by condition score and droppings:Poordoer in light/medium workForage: adlib hay/haylage; small haynet preexercise for buffering.Bucket feed (23 times/day): BETAapproved, lowstarch conditioning fibre; add 100150 g micronised linseed per meal (total 300450 g/day).Supplements: vitaminmineral balancer; gut balancer with pectin/lecithin; salt/electrolytes as workload dictates. See our supplements selection.Review: aim for 0.250.5 body condition score gain per month; if dropping, add 50100 g/day linseed or increase fibre feed volume.Gooddoer with a history of ulcersForage: controlled but frequent access (e.g., smallhole net) to maintain trickle feeding without excess calories.Bucket feed: highfibre, lowstarch chaff plus 100200 g/day micronised linseed; consider linseed meal (lower oil, higher protein) if weight climbs too fast.Monitoring: keep starch under ~8% of total ration; drop linseed by 50 g increments if condition creeps up.Performance horse needing cool energyForage: adlib quality hay/haylage; add beet pulp/soya hulls for superfibre calories.Bucket feed: BETAapproved performance fibre (e.g., 11.5 MJ/kg category) + 300454 g/day micronised linseed; split across 3 meals.Optional: highoil conditioning pellets (e.g., rice bran/linseed blends ~3040/5 kg) if extra topend calories needed; keep starch low overall.If you prefer to feed pure oil, choose linseed/flax oil (1020 per 1 L typical) over corn oil to maintain an omega3 bias. But for most ulcerprone horses, micronised linseed wins on digestibility and overall gut comfort.Budgetminded? Keep an eye on our rotating deals in The Secret Tack Room (clearance) ideal for stocking up when you dial in a ration that works.Quality and compliance: British standards to trustBETAs ulcersuitable approval scheme helps UK owners identify feeds proven appropriate for horses prone to gastric ulcers. Always prioritise the BETA mark when choosing conditioning fibres to sit alongside linseed.In line with UK guidance, any product indicated as suitable for horses and ponies prone to gastric ulcers should demonstrate highfibre, lowstarch credentials and follow BETAs protocols. Brands like Dengie and Baileys participate in this assurance framework, making selection simpler in busy yard life and through unpredictable UK winters.At Just Horse Riders, we stock trusted brands and supportive extras that fit this philosophy, from omegarich conditioners to targeted gut balancers and triedandtested yard staples. For brandspecific solutions, explore our NAF range for digestive and coat support aligned with your linseed plan.Troubleshooting and finetuningIf your horse isnt gaining despite linseed and fibre, increase total forage quality and quantity first, then add 50100 g/day linseed increments every 710 days. If droppings soften, pause increases or step back 50100 g.Common pitfalls and easy fixes:Feeding oil only: swap all or part of oil for micronised linseed to add fibre/protein for better utilisation.Too much starch elsewhere: recheck labels; aim under ~8% starch and ~6.5% sugar in bucket feeds for ulcerprone horses.Irregular feeding times: prioritise little-and-often, especially preride fibre to buffer acid splash.No micronutrients: add a balancer to avoid hidden plateaus from vitamin/mineral gaps.Cold, wet horse: spare those calories by keeping them warm and dry with appropriate rugs and good management.As Baileys reminds owners, the BETA mark on fibre feeds is your shortcut to suitability for ulcerprone horses (read more). Pair that assurance with linseeds omega3 profile for a practical, researchbacked route to condition.FAQsIs micronised linseed better than linseed oil for weight gain?Yes. Micronised linseed supplies 3540% oil plus fibre and around 22% protein, which supports digestion and topline; oil is 100% fat with no fibre or protein. Most ulcerprone horses do better on micronised linseed.Can linseed help an ulcerprone horse gain weight safely?Yes. Linseed is low in starch and rich in omega3 and soluble fibre, making it ideal alongside a highforage, BETAapproved lowstarch ration. See the Horse & Hound guidance.How much linseed should I feed my horse?Use 0.8 g/kg bodyweight/day for linseed groats (400 g/day for 500 kg) or up to 454 g/day of linseed products total. Start at 50120 g/day and build slowly over 1014 days. Evidence shows improved fat and protein digestibility at these levels (PMC).Does linseed oil cause inflammatory imbalances like corn oil?No. Linseed has an omega3dominant profile and is highly digestible, whereas corn oil is high in omega6. For antiinflammatory balance, linseed is the oil of choice (Equinutritive).How quickly will I see results from linseed?Many horses show a shinier coat and steadier condition within a few weeks when linseed is fed consistently with a fibrefirst diet. Monitor droppings and weigh or measure girth weekly to track changes.What should I feed with linseed to keep starch low?Choose BETAapproved, highfibre feeds with starch under ~8% and sugar under ~6.5%, and base the diet on adlib forage. See the BETA guidance via Baileys ulcer library.Any UK winter management tips while feeding linseed?Yes: keep them warm and dry so calories build condition, not body heat. Wellfitting turnout rugs for the field and stable rugs at night help your linseed calories go further through the hunger gap. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop SupplementsShop NAF SupplementsShop Turnout RugsShop Stable RugsShop Grooming Kit

One horse at a private facility in Snohomish County, Washington, has tested positive for strangles. The horse is under veterinary care and is currently recovering.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

9 min read Last updated: January 2026 Oak trees in your paddocks feel harmlessuntil acorns start dropping and your horses health is on the line. This guide shows you exactly when risk spikes (SeptemberNovember and spring), the urgent signs to spot, and simple preventionlike a 5-minute daily field scan and fencing to the driplinefor safer turnout. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Peak Risk Windows What To Do: Mark SeptemberNovember and the spring flush on your yard calendar; increase checks and restrict access during these periods, especially after heat or storms. Why It Matters: These windows bring the highest acorn drop and tender oak growth, raising poisoning risk. Common Mistake: Assuming fields are safe after winter and overlooking the spring bud risk. Area: Daily Field Checks What To Do: Spend five minutes before turnout scanning under canopies; remove clusters of green acorns and fallen branches and adjust turnout if heavy fall is noted. Why It Matters: Quick, routine sweeps prevent ingestion before it happens. Common Mistake: Turning out first and planning to clear later. Area: Fence Off Oaks What To Do: Put temporary electric fencing to at least the dripline and check after storms; place water and hay 3050 metres away to anchor horses in safer zones. Why It Matters: Physical exclusion stops even determined acornseekers. Common Mistake: Fencing only the trunk and leaving the fall zone accessible. Area: Provide Ample Forage What To Do: Offer adlib hay/haylage in safe areas and rotate fields to avoid overgrazing; move feeding stations well away from oak lines. Why It Matters: Wellfed horses are less likely to browse toxic material. Common Mistake: Relying on sparse grazing during dry spells. Area: Spot Early Signs What To Do: Monitor daily for inappetence, colic, constipation turning to diarrhoea, mouth ulcers, altered urination, or dark urine; note changes and times. Why It Matters: Fast recognition enables earlier veterinary care and a better prognosis. Common Mistake: Waiting to see if it passes before phoning the vet. Area: Suspected Poisoning Steps What To Do: Call your vet immediately; remove the horse from pasture, provide fresh water and forage, and gather sample acorns/leaves plus photos. Why It Matters: There is no antidote and timely supportive treatment can be lifesaving. Common Mistake: Giving activated charcoal or other remedies without veterinary direction. Area: Clear Falls Fast What To Do: Rake or sweep highdensity zones daily in peak season; use a paddock sweeper for larger areas and prioritise green acorns and young leaves. Why It Matters: Rapid clearance reduces exposure where horses graze most. Common Mistake: Delaying cleanups after windy nights or storms. Area: Feed & Treat Safety What To Do: Buy reputable, labelled feeds; avoid any product listing oak parts or unapproved botanicals and contact manufacturers about unclear ingredients. Why It Matters: Oak derivatives arent authorised and tannins are harmful even in small amounts. Common Mistake: Assuming natural ingredients are automatically safe for horses. In This Guide What is oak and acorn poisoning in horses? When are UK horses most at risk? How much is dangerous, and what signs should you watch for? What should you do immediately if you suspect acorn poisoning? How can you prevent acorn access in UK paddocks? Are oak derivatives allowed in UK horse feeds and treats? What seasonal yard management helps reduce acorn risk? Oak trees are a fixture of British fields, but their leaves and acorns can put horses at real risk each spring and autumn. Knowing when danger peaks, what to look for, and how to prevent access could save your horses life.Key takeaway: All parts of the oak are toxic to horses, with young leaves and green acorns the most harmful; poisoning is rare but lifethreatening, so fence off oaks, supply ample forage, and call your vet immediately if you spot symptoms.What is oak and acorn poisoning in horses?Oak and acorn poisoning occurs when a horse eats enough oak material (leaves, buds, bark, acorns) containing tannic acids to damage the gut, kidneys, liver, and blood cells. All parts of the oak are toxic, but new buds, young leaves, and green (juvenile) acorns are the most dangerous.Tannins (tannic and gallic acids) irritate and inflame the digestive tract and can lead to kidney and liver damage. While many horses dislike the bitter taste and avoid acorns, poisoning does happenparticularly where grazing is poor or some horses develop a taste for acorns and seek them out despite plenty of forage.If eaten, acorns, leaves and branches from oak trees pose a risk of poisoning to horses... Acorns contain a substance called tannic acid, which when eaten in sufficient quantity... the tannins can cause serious illness. British Horse SocietySignificant ingestion is generally required for toxicity, but once clinical signs begin, the condition is a veterinary emergency with a high mortality rate and a prolonged recovery (two months or more) for survivors.When are UK horses most at risk?Risk peaks in autumn (SeptemberNovember) during the acorn fall and again in spring with the emergence of new buds and young leaves, especially after hot, dry summers or following storms that bring down extra acorns and branches.UK fields often face grazing shortages after long, dry summers, making acorns a tempting alternative. Overgrazed paddockscommon on busier livery yardscompound the risk. After autumn storms or strong winds, more acorns and branches drop; check fields thoroughly before turnout. Some horses learn to relish acorns and will forage for them even when hay or haylage is provided, so physical exclusion with fencing is crucial.In most cases, paddocks become safe again by late winter once trees have finished dropping and seasonal leaf fall has decomposed or been cleared. However, the spring flush of tender oak growth creates a second, often-overlooked risk window when other grazing is still limited.How much is dangerous, and what signs should you watch for?Toxicity typically requires eating large quantities of acorns or oak leaves, but if symptoms appear, it is always an emergency with a guarded prognosis. Early recognition and immediate veterinary care are critical.Because intake varies by tree, season, and individual horse, theres no single safe number of acorns. Instead, focus on prevention and vigilance. Watch closely from early autumn through late autumn (and again in spring) for:Reduced appetite, dullness, or depressionConstipation or colic that may progress to diarrhoeaDehydration and increased drinking/urination or, conversely, reduced urinationMouth ulcers or droolingDark or bloody urine (a sign of red blood cell damage)Abdominal pain, tucked-up appearance, or strainingHorses must consume a large amount of oak leaves or acorns to cause toxicosis, however the mortality rate is high. If a horse starts to develop symptoms, it is always considered a medical emergency. VetsterQuick tip: Keep a daily turnout routine that includes a five-minute field scan under and around oaks. If you see clusters of green acorns or storm-fallen branches, adjust turnout and clear the area before horses go out.What should you do immediately if you suspect acorn poisoning?Call your vet straight away; there is no antidote, and treatment is supportive with fluids, pain relief, and, if advised by your vet, activated charcoal or mineral oil administered professionally.Move the horse off pasture to a clean area with fresh water and palatable forage. Do not give activated charcoal or any other home remedy without veterinary instructionincorrect dosing or timing can complicate care. Be ready to tell your vet:When the horse was last on the affected paddockWhat youve observed (signs, colour of urine or faeces, appetite, behaviour)Any recent storms, changes in grazing, or known acorn fallsPro tip: Bag a small sample of the suspected acorns/leaves and take clear photos of the area under the oak. While not always necessary, this can help your vet assess the likely exposure.Post-crisis, monitor kidney and liver function as your vet advises. Recovery can be lengthy (often two months or more), so expect a careful return-to-normal plan with hydration, nutrition, and rest as priorities.How can you prevent acorn access in UK paddocks?Fence off oak trees to at least the branch span, clear falls promptly, and provide ample high-quality forage away from trees to reduce acorn-seeking behaviour.The BHS advises placing temporary electric fencing around oaksideally to the dripline (edge of the canopy)to keep horses off the heaviest fall zones. Pair this with proactive field management:Before turnout, do a quick walk of the oak line, especially after winds and storms.Rake or sweep up visible acorns and fresh leaf fall; prioritise green (unripe) acorns and young leaves.Relocate water and hay stations well away from trees to anchor horses in safer zones.Rotate fields to avoid overgrazing; rest paddocks that border oak-heavy hedgerows in peak months.Providing fibre is your best deterrent. Keep hay or haylage available during lean periods so horses arent tempted to browse oak material. When you need a safe, boredom-busting reward, choose purpose-made, additivecompliant treats. Our range of horse treats without risky botanicals gives you peace of mind during acorn season.At Just Horse Riders, we also recommend planning for a wet, windy autumn where turnout can be patchy. Reliable winter turnout rugs help you maintain a sensible turnout schedule without compromising comfort, so you can keep horses off highrisk areas when needed while still giving them time out.Are oak derivatives allowed in UK horse feeds and treats?Nooak parts are not approved feed additives. In the UK, only authorised additives under EC 1831/2003 may be used, and mixing additives requires appropriate registration with the Food Standards Agency.Under EC Regulation 1831/2003 (applied in the UK via national Feed Hygiene rules), preservatives such as propionic acid and other additives can be included only if specifically authorised for horses, at set maximum inclusion levels, and used exactly as directed. Feed businesses that mix additives or premixtures (vitamins, trace elements, preservatives) must register their activities with the Food Standards Agency. This framework helps ensure safety and traceability in the equine feed chain.For everyday horse owners, the take-home is simple:Buy reputable, labelled feeds and treats that comply with UK/EU additive rules.Avoid any product containing oak leaves, acorn fragments, or tannin-rich botanicals not authorised for equine feed.Contact the manufacturer if an ingredient seems unclear or unusual.Choose products from trusted brands and retailers. Our curated authorised supplements and carefully selected equine treats are sourced to comply with UK feed regulations, helping you avoid unwanted contaminants while supporting balanced nutrition through autumn and winter.What seasonal yard management helps reduce acorn risk?In autumn and early winter, manage grazing pressure, comfort, and routine with good rugs, clear paddocks, and consistent forage to minimise acorn temptation and stress.Autumn in the UK brings short days, slick ground, and frequent storms. A small shift in yard routine can keep horses comfortable and your field safer:Comfortable turnout encourages calm grazing away from trees. Consider waterproof, breathable turnout rugs that suit your horses clip and condition.When stabling overnight becomes necessary, match with cosy stable rugs for warmth while you plan early-morning field checks under oaks.When youre doing dawn or dusk acorn sweeps, increase visibility with hivis rider gear around the yard and lanes.Keep a tidy grooming routine after wet, muddy turnouts; a well-stocked grooming kit lets you spot subtle skin and mouth changes quickly.For hardworking rugs that stand up to British weather, browse proven options from WeatherBeeta to keep horses turned out comfortably while you fence or clear oak zones.Pro tip: Pencil in two storm response tasks on your yard board from September onwards(1) fence checks around oaks after high winds and (2) 15-minute acorn sweeps before next turnout. Turn a risky morning into a quick, repeatable routine.Our customers often tell us that planning hay placement 3050 metres away from known oak lines keeps the herd settled on safe ground and makes daily inspection of oak areas more manageable.FAQsAre small amounts of dried oak leaves in horse treats safe?No. While horses usually need a large quantity of oak material to cause toxicity, the tannins are undesirable even in small amounts. Avoid feeding any treats containing oak parts, and contact the manufacturer if you spot unusual botanicals. Choose purposemade, compliant options from our equine treats collection.What exactly causes oak poisoning in horses?Tannic and gallic acids in acorns, young leaves, buds, and bark damage the gastrointestinal lining, red blood cells, kidneys, and liver when eaten in sufficient amounts. Signs include inappetence, colic, diarrhoea, mouth ulcers, dehydration, and discoloured urine. For a welfare overview, see guidance from the British Horse Society.My field is overgrazedhow can I stop horses seeking acorns?Increase forage availability (hay/haylage) away from oaks, fence to the dripline, and rotate fields to reduce grazing pressure. Add safe, lowsugar rewards rather than allowing browsing under treesbrowse our safer treat optionsand keep water points far from oak lines so horses linger in cleaner zones.Is there a specific treatment or antidote for acorn poisoning?No. Vets provide supportive caretypically intravenous fluids, pain relief, and, where appropriate, professionally administered activated charcoal or mineral oil. Prognosis is guarded once clinical signs appear, and recovery can take two months or more. See veterinary guidance summarised by Vetster.When will my paddock be safe again after an acorn fall?Fields are generally safe by late autumn/early winter once trees stop dropping and youve cleared visible acorns and fresh leaf fall. Remain cautious in spring when tender buds and young leaves emerge, particularly if grazing is sparse.Some horses love acornscan they become hooked?Yes, some individuals develop a liking and will actively seek acorns regardless of available forage. For these horses, physical exclusion is essential: fence off oak areas to the branch span and maintain disciplined field checks, especially after storms.Whats the best way to clear fallen acorns quickly?Focus on high-density zones under the canopy. Rake or sweep daily during peak fall, prioritising green acorns and young leaves. For larger areas, a paddock sweeper or yard vacuum can speed things up. Pair clearance with fencing and strategic hay placement to keep horses occupied elsewhere.At Just Horse Riders, were here to help you navigate acorn season with confidence. From reliable turnout rugs and warm stable rugs to practical grooming essentials and compliant supplements, well support your plan to keep horses safe, comfortable, and out of the oak line this autumn and spring. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Turnout RugsShop Horse TreatsShop Stable RugsShop Hi-Vis GearShop Grooming Kit

8 min read Last updated: January 2026 Running a yard or riding club forum and seeing threads pop up in New posts but vanish from forum lists? This quick, reliable fix shows you how to align the 2 key permissionsView threads and View contentenable inclusion in New posts, and rebuild caches so your members see the same threads everywhere. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Match Node Permissions What To Do: In Admin CP > Forums > Nodes > [Forum] > Permissions, set View node, View threads and View content to Allow for the same groups. Fix inheritance so no Deny overrides an Allow. Why It Matters: Prevents threads showing in Whats new but not in forum lists. Common Mistake: Allowing View threads but denying View content causes inconsistent visibility. Area: Include in New Posts What To Do: In the nodes Settings, enable Include threads from this forum when users click New posts. Exclude only private/committee areas deliberately. Why It Matters: Ensures members pick up updates via Whats new. Common Mistake: Forgetting to tick inclusion on new or rushed node setups. Area: Rebuild Caches What To Do: After permission or node changes, run Tools > Rebuild caches (search and forum data). Ask affected users to log out/in once. Why It Matters: Forces listings and search to reflect your changes. Common Mistake: Skipping rebuilds and assuming updates are immediate. Area: Trigger Fresh Search What To Do: Click New posts/Whats new to refresh results; dont rely on browser refresh. Train moderators to use the link when expecting updates. Why It Matters: XenForo caches results; only a new search fetches new content. Common Mistake: Hitting F5 and assuming nothing new was posted. Area: Test with Real Users What To Do: Verify with Guest and plain Registered test accounts and use the permission analyser on tricky nodes. Retest after each change and cache rebuild. Why It Matters: Admin rights bypass restrictions and can hide problems. Common Mistake: Checking visibility only while logged in as an admin or moderator. Area: Clear Moderation Queue What To Do: Review the moderation queue and recent actions; approve or undelete posts as needed. Confirm pernode posting rights for relevant groups. Why It Matters: Unapproved or softdeleted content is invisible to regular members. Common Mistake: Tweaking permissions while a missing thread sits unapproved. Area: Simplify Forum Structure What To Do: Keep 68 clear nodes with consistent permissions and minimal exceptions. Align New posts inclusion per node. Why It Matters: Simple, consistent rules reduce visibility bugs and support load. Common Mistake: Overgranular, conflicting rules across nodes. Area: Document Golden Settings What To Do: Record standard permissions, New posts policy, and rebuild steps; keep an audit log of moves/merges/deletes and share with the committee. Why It Matters: Documentation prevents regressions when roles change or during busy periods. Common Mistake: Relying on memory and losing track of changes. In This Guide Quick diagnosis: why posts appear in Latest posts but not forums Fix permissions correctly (the 2 settings that must match) Make sure the node is included in New posts Understand caching: why refreshing doesnt show new activity Common gotchas: soft-deletes, moderation queues, and super admin traps Safely test with real user groups Run a smooth yard community: simple forum structure that works Kit checklist for real-world meetups your forum organises Running a yard or riding club forum is brilliant for organising hacks, shows and daytoday yard life until posts show in Latest posts but vanish from the forum list. If youre using XenForo and seeing this mismatch, you can fix it in minutes with the right settings.Key takeaway: In XenForo, mismatched node permissions and a disabled Include in New posts setting are the two main reasons threads show in Whats new but not in forum lists fix both and rebuild caches.Quick diagnosis: why posts appear in Latest posts but not forumsThe immediate cause is almost always a node permission mismatch (View threads allowed but View content denied) or the node is excluded from New posts. When these dont line up, threads surface in Whats new but not consistently in forum views.XenForo resolves Whats new (Latest posts) via a search that can include threads your users technically see but cant open, while individual forum lists rely on nodelevel visibility. If a group can view threads but not view content, they may spot titles in some places but cant access the content or consistently see the thread within node listings.If a permission allows viewing of threads, but not viewing of content, there users sees the threads as expected in the forum view thread list. XenForo Community user. SourceEqually, a node can be excluded from the New posts search. That means your carefully written clinic announcement may never appear in Whats new for members who rely on it.Fix permissions correctly (the 2 settings that must match)Enable both View threads and View content for the same user groups on the affected node. If one is allowed and the other is denied, users get mixed visibility and missing threads in forum lists.Step-by-step (Admin CP):Go to Forums > Nodes > [Your forum] > Permissions.For each relevant group (e.g., Registered, Staff, Members), set:View node: AllowView threads: AllowView content: AllowAlign permission inheritance so a Deny higher up isnt cancelling an Allow lower down.Click Save.Go to Tools > Rebuild caches and run the relevant rebuild (search and forum data) to refresh visibility.Quick tip: Test with a nonadmin account after changes. Admins and moderators often bypass restrictions, so what you see is not what your members see.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend keeping permission models simple: most community confusion arises from overgranular, conflicting settings.Make sure the node is included in New postsTurn on Include threads from this forum when users click New posts in the affected nodes settings. Without this, threads wont appear in Latest posts even if permissions are correct.This simple checkbox is easy to miss on busy nodes created in a rush. Confirm it for every forum you want members to follow via Whats new.Obvious question, but is Include threads from this forum when users click New posts enabled in the settings for that node? XenForo Community Staff. SourcePro tip: For private subcommittees (e.g., show team planning), explicitly exclude those nodes from New posts to keep public feeds tidy but keep inclusion enabled for general announcements and rideouts so nobody misses key info.Understand caching: why refreshing doesnt show new activityRefreshing the Active threads or New posts page wont pull fresh results; you need to click the New posts link again to trigger a new search. This is normal caching behaviour in XenForo 2.3.That means a browser refresh (F5/CmdR) can leave you staring at older results, even though members have posted updates about tonights yard meeting. Train your moderators and regulars to click New posts rather than rely on refresh if theyre expecting something new to show. It prevents duplicate Wheres my post? messages in your help section. Learn more from the XenForo community.Common gotchas: soft-deletes, moderation queues, and super admin trapsSoftdeleted or moderated posts, and nodespecific posting restrictions, can hide content from standard forum views while leaving traces elsewhere for users with higher permissions. Clear these before you chase permission ghosts.Moderation queue: Check that a missing thread isnt awaiting approval. Moderators may see it; regular members wont.Soft delete vs hard delete: Softdeleted content can sometimes appear to privileged users but not the general membership.Pernode posting rights: If an admin cant post a new thread, verify Create new threads is allowed in that specific node for that users primary and secondary groups.Stale permissions: After sweeping changes, rebuild caches and ask the affected user to log out/in once this clears stored permissions.Quick tip: Keep an audit log for moderator actions during busy show weeks. Its easier to explain visibility quirks when you know what was moved, merged, or softdeleted.Safely test with real user groupsCreate or borrow test accounts for Guest and Registered users to confirm what ordinary members see. Admin accounts often mask problems due to elevated rights.How to test fast:Open a private/Incognito window and browse as a Guest: confirm that only public announcements and sales boards appear if thats your intent.Log in with a plain Registered test account: check that Whats new and the actual forum lists match.Use XenForos permission analyser on tricky nodes, reviewing effective permissions for the test user.Repeat after any change and after a cache rebuild.Once its stable, document your forums golden settings so future committee members can keep things aligned without guesswork.Run a smooth yard community: simple forum structure that worksKeep your yard forum simple: 68 clear nodes with consistent permissions prevent visibility bugs. The fewer exceptions you have, the fewer issues youll chase.Suggested structure that works for most UK yards and riding clubs:Announcements & Yard News (public to members; included in New posts)Rides & Routes (included in New posts, encourage safety kit reminders)Rugging & Weather Alerts (included in New posts, seasonal)Clinics, Shows & Training (included in New posts)Buy/Sell/Swap (optional inclusion)Horse Health & Management (members only)Committee/Staff Area (excluded from New posts)Link your digital organisation to realworld readiness. For example:Rides & Routes: Pin a checklist for reflective gear and helmets. Point members to our rider hivis collection and certified riding helmets before dusk hacks.Rugging & Weather Alerts: When temperatures drop and the wind turns northeasterly, include practical links to winter turnout rugs and warm stable rugs so owners can act quickly.Clinics & Shows: Keep a packing list with smart competition clothing and wellfitting jodhpurs & breeches for a polished ringside look.Horse Health & Management: Curate a starter guide to evidenceled supplements and everyday grooming essentials for coat condition.Buy/Sell/Swap: Encourage responsible secondhand trading and highlight our Secret Tack Room clearance for bargainhunters.At Just Horse Riders, our customers often use their yard forums to coordinate seasonal care. Keeping those nodes visible in Whats new means fewer missed updates on rugs, hoof boots and fly control.Kit checklist for real-world meetups your forum organisesFor group hacks, shows, or clinics you advertise online, prepare core kit that keeps riders safe and horses comfortable. A tidy forum thread plus the right gear equals smooth outings and fewer lastminute scrambles.Safety first for hack meetups:Highvisibility layers for short days: our curated hivis range covers vests, jackets and exercise sheets.Wellfitting, uptostandard headgear: browse certified riding helmets with modern ventilation for yearround comfort.Leg protection for varied terrain: choose supportive horse boots & bandages for schooling or stony bridleways.Seasonal comfort:Wet and windy forecast? Layer with dependable turnout rugs from trusted brands like WeatherBeeta and Shires.Stable overnights after a clinic: keep muscles warm in breathable stable rugs.Summer swish season: reduce irritation on warm evenings with breathable fly rugs and thoughtful aftercare from LeMieux and NAF.Turnoutready appearance:Smart layers for shows or demos: pick from our competition clothing and comfortable breeches.Morale boosters:Pack horse treats for positive reinforcement and postride rewards.For yard celebrations and Secret Santa, check our seasonal equestrian gifts.Quick tip: Add this checklist to a pinned forum post and link it whenever you announce a ride or clinic. Consistency reduces noshows and gear mishaps.Recap and next stepsFix visibility first with matching View threads and View content permissions, then enable Include in New posts on the node, rebuild caches, and test with real user accounts. Keeping a simple forum structure with minimal exceptions prevents these problems from returning.While you keep your digital noticeboard running smoothly, well help you prep for the British seasons with reliable kit from reflective layers and helmets for dusky hacks to weatherproof turnout rugs when the mercury dives.FAQsWhy do threads show in New posts but not in the forum list?Because the nodes permissions or inclusion settings are misaligned. Most commonly, View threads is allowed but View content is denied, or the node is excluded from New posts. Correct both and rebuild caches.Which specific permissions cause the mismatch?View threads and View content at the node level. They must be set consistently for each user group that should see and read the threads.Refreshing Active threads doesnt show new activity. Is that a bug?No. In XenForo 2.3, you need to click the New posts link to run a fresh search; a simple browser refresh wont update the results. See community discussions on xenforo.com.How do I include or exclude a forum from New posts?In Admin CP > Forums > [Node] > Settings, enable or disable Include threads from this forum when users click New posts. Enable for general yard areas; disable for private committee sections.Why can admins see or post where members cannot?Admins and moderators often have elevated rights that bypass normal restrictions. Always test with a standard Registered user to verify realworld visibility and posting ability.Do I need to rebuild caches after permission changes?Yes. After adjusting node permissions or inclusion settings, go to Tools > Rebuild caches to ensure search and listings reflect your changes.Could moderation or soft deletes cause posts to disappear?Yes. Softdeleted or unapproved posts wont appear to regular members. Check the moderation queue and recent moderator actions before changing permissions. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. 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Two horses in Wisconsin recently tested positive for strangles.In Sheboygan County, positive results were confirmed in a 2-year-old Quarter Horse filly on April 10. The filly initially presented with a cough, nasal discharge, and submandibular lymphadenopathy with abscessation. Two additional horses are suspected to be positive, and 13 horses have been exposed.In Green County, a yearling Miniature Horse filly tested positive for the disease on April 17. It is unknown if other horses have been exposed.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

In this episode, host Stephanie Ruff talks with Nicole Rambo, PhD, head of the Tribute Equine Research and Innovation Center. They discuss the most common feeding mistakes people make along with some easy improvements horse owners can start with right away.Then Dr. Rambo expands on whether or not corn causes horses to colic in the segment Viral Ideas, Real Horses.Watch Feeding Horses on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The hosts and guests might discuss general nutrition concepts, research, and personal experiences. These discussions should not be interpreted as specific recommendations for individual horses.The creators of this podcast make no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information discussed. They assume no responsibility for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. They also encourage listeners to seek professional guidance before making changes to their horses diet, supplements, or healthcare program.Meet the Nutritionist:Nicole Rambo, PhDDr. Nicole Rambo is the equine nutritionist for Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.Dr. Rambo combines her passion for horses with her expertise in nutrition to help horse owners and industry professionals make informed feeding decisions. She oversees the Tribute Equine Research and Innovation Center, driving advancements in equine nutrition. Dr. Rambo is responsible for feed formulation, technical support for customers, dealers, and sales teams, and delivering educational seminars nationwide. She holds degrees from Texas A&M, the University of Kentucky, and the University of Minnesota. Dr. Rambo lives in Ohio with her husband, Zach, and and an assortment of four-legged critters.