Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a common condition in horses and ponies, closely linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of laminitis. Diet plays a crucial role in both the development and management of EMS. Understanding what to feedand what to avoidcan make all the difference to your horses health.How Diet Contributes to EMSHigh Sugar & Starch Intake:Diets rich in sugars (from lush pasture or molassed feeds) and starches (from cereals and some mixes) can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance, both key factors in EMS.Excess Calories:Overfeeding, even with healthy feeds, can result in obesitya major risk factor for EMS.Unrestricted Grazing:Horses and ponies at risk often gain weight quickly on unrestricted pasture, especially in spring and autumn when grass is richest in sugars.Dietary Management for EMSLow Sugar, Low Starch:Choose feeds and forage that are low in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs). Avoid cereals, molasses, and rich pastures.Controlled Calories:Offer only as much as your horse needs to maintain a healthy weight. Use a weigh tape and body condition scoring regularly.Soaked Hay:Soaking hay for several hours can reduce its sugar content, making it safer for EMS-prone horses.Forage First:The bulk of the diet should be low-sugar forage, not hard feed.Supplements:Horses on restricted diets may need vitamin/mineral supplements to ensure they still receive essential nutrients.Suitable Products from Chestnut MillAt Chestnut Mill, we stock a range of products suitable for horses and ponies with EMS:Low-Sugar Horse Feeds:Browse our low-sugar horse feedsfor safe options that support healthy weight and metabolic function.Soaked Hay & Haylage:Find quality hay and haylageideal for soaking and reducing sugar content.Vitamin & Mineral Balancers:View our horse supplementsto ensure your horse gets all the essential nutrients without excess calories.Salt & Mineral Licks:Explore salt and mineral licksto support overall health, especially when hard feed is reduced.If you need tailored advice, our team is always happy to help you choose the best products for your horses individual needs.

As the warmer months arrive, many horses begin to rub, scratch, or bite at their skin more than usual. Itch season is hereand for sensitive horses, that can mean weeks of discomfort and frustration if not managed early. At Chestnut Mill, we understand just how stressful itchy skin can be for both horses and owners, so heres what you need to know and how you can help.Why Do Horses Get Itchy in Summer?Warmer weather brings a range of itch triggers for horses:Allergies:Pollen, biting insects, and certain plants are all more prevalent in spring and summer.Midges & Insects:Sweet itch (seasonal allergic dermatitis) is caused by midge bites and is especially common from late spring through autumn.Sweat & Dust:Increased turnout and exercise can lead to build-up of sweat, dust, and dirt, which may irritate the skin.Sun Exposure:Some horses are prone to sunburn or photosensitivity, especially those with pink skin or white markings.Signs Your Horse Is SufferingLook out for:Excessive rubbing on fences, posts, or stable doorsBald patches, broken hair, or sore skinScabby areas, especially along the mane, tail, or bellyRestlessness or irritabilitySwelling or thickened skin in affected areasWhat Can You Do? Practical TipsRegular Grooming:Brush daily to remove dirt, loose hair, and allergens.Fly Protection:Use fly sheets, masks, and insect repellents to reduce bites.Wash Gently:Bathe with mild, horse-safe shampoos and rinse sweat after exercise.Stable Management:Keep stables clean and dry, and regularly remove droppings from the field.Monitor Grazing:Limit turnout during peak midge activity (dawn and dusk) and avoid boggy, midge-heavy areas.Key Product: The Golden Paste Company TurmerItch PelletsFor horses who need extra support during itch season, TurmerItch Pellets from The Golden Paste Company offer a natural and effective solution.What are they?TurmerItch Pellets are a unique supplement blend containing turmeric, neem, chamomile, diatomaceous earth, and micronised linseedformulated to support healthy skin, soothe irritation, and maintain a glossy coat.How do they work?The combination of natural ingredients helps calm skin, support the bodys natural defences, and provide omega oils for coat health. Particularly useful for horses prone to sweet itch and seasonal skin sensitivities.How to use:Simply add the recommended amount to your horses daily feed. Suitable for all breeds and ages.Explore TurmerItch Pellets and our full range of horse supplements to help your horse stay comfortable and healthy all season.

Gastric ulcers are a common but often overlooked health issue in horses. Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) can affect horses of all ages and disciplines, from leisure ponies to top-level competition horses. Understanding what causes EGUS, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to help prevent and manage it is vital for every responsible horse owner.What is Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome?EGUS refers to ulceration of the horses stomach lining. Horses have a unique digestive system: their stomach is divided into two sections the squamous (upper) and glandular (lower) regions. Ulcers can develop in either, but are most common in the squamous area, which lacks the protective mucus found in the glandular region.What Causes Gastric Ulcers in Horses?Horses are naturally designed to graze for up to 18 hours a day, producing stomach acid continuously. Modern horse management such as stabling, meal feeding, intense exercise, and limited turnout can disrupt this natural balance, leading to excess acid and, ultimately, ulcers.Common risk factors include:Long periods without forageHigh-grain/low-forage dietsIntense training or competitionStress (travel, new environments, herd changes)Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)Signs and Symptoms of EGUSUlcers can be tricky to detect, as symptoms are often subtle and vary between horses. Some common signs include:Dull coat and poor conditionReluctance to eat, especially hard feedWeight loss or difficulty maintaining weightChanges in behaviour or attitude (irritability, girthiness)Poor performance or reluctance to workMild, recurrent colicIf you notice any of these signs, its important to consult your vet for a proper diagnosis.Diagnosing Gastric UlcersThe only definitive way to diagnose EGUS is via gastroscopy a procedure where a vet uses a small camera to examine the stomach lining. This allows them to see the location and severity of any ulcers and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.Managing and Preventing Gastric Ulcers1. Forage First:Provide ad-lib access to good-quality forage. Hay or haylage buffers stomach acid and encourages natural chewing and saliva production, which helps protect the stomach lining.2. Small, Frequent Meals:If hard feed is necessary, split it into smaller, more frequent meals rather than one or two large feeds.3. Reduce Stress:Minimise changes in routine, provide ample turnout, and maintain a calm environment whenever possible.4. Careful Use of Medications:Only use NSAIDs and other medications under veterinary guidance, as some can increase ulcer risk.5. Consider Digestive Supplements:Some supplements can support gastric health by soothing the stomach lining and helping maintain a healthy gut environment. Look for products containing ingredients such as pectin, lecithin, or natural buffers.Treatment OptionsIf your horse is diagnosed with EGUS, your vet may prescribe medication to reduce stomach acid and allow ulcers to heal (such as omeprazole). Dietary and management changes are also crucial for long-term prevention.Final ThoughtsGastric ulcers are a real concern for todays horses, but with the right knowledge and management, they can be prevented and effectively managed. If you suspect your horse may be suffering from EGUS, dont hesitate to seek veterinary advice.Looking for gastric health supplements or advice?Browse our range of horse supplements or contact us at info@chestnutmill.co.uk for tailored recommendations.

Ocala, FL The $32,000 IDA Development Grand Prix Qualifier CSI2* kicked off Thursday morning at World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) with 23 horse-and-rider combinations representing eight nations competing for the top prize. Manuel Esparaza designed the track that allowed for a 12-horse jump-off, where Venezuelas Luis Larrazabal ultimately dominated with Driss Ngadis, Belle De Muze by Pensee V x Lando. Larrazabal returned first[...]Read MoreThe post Luis Larrazabal and Belle De Muze Speed to Victory in $32,000 IDA Development Grand Prix Qualifier CSI2* appeared first on World Equestrian Center.