A racehorse is, in many ways, the equine equivalent of a world-class athlete. Everything in its daily routineits training, its mental stimulation, and especially its nutritionis carefully managed to allow the horse to perform at peak speed and power. However, when a racehorse retires, we must look past the athlete and remember the animal. Fundamentally, they share the same digestive physiology as any other horse, yet their first career often leaves behind a legacy of gastrointestinal challenges that require careful management, particularly during the harsh winter months.The Legacy RacingThroughout a racing career, horses are conditioned for anaerobic performance. To fuel fast-twitch muscle fibres, they require quick-release energy, traditionally supplied through high-starch diets rich in oats and grain mixes. While effective for performance, these rations can be tough on the equine gut.The primary casualty is often the stomach. Unlike humans, horses produce stomach acid continuously. Without constant forage to act as a buffer, high-starch diets can lead to gastric ulceration. The unprotected squamous region of the stomach is particularly vulnerable to acid splash during intense exercise. Furthermore, excess starch that reaches the hindgut can disrupt the delicate microbial balance, lower pH levels and lead to systemic inflammation or metabolic inefficiencies, such as insulin sensitivity.The Winter ChallengeWhen ex-racehorses transition to a second career, their digestive system often needs a period of adjustment. This reset becomes significantly more difficult in winter. As temperatures drop, a horses digestible energy requirements increase by approximately 2% for every 10C decline below their lower critical temperature.For the retired racehorse, winter presents a double-edged sword: they burn more calories simply to stay warm, yet the quality and availability of pasturetheir most natural source of buffering fibreplummets. While many leisure horses may do well on winter forage, ex-racers often have higher metabolic demands and may struggle to maintain condition without a targeted nutritional strategy.Forage: The Foundation of RecoveryIn winter, the focus must shift from quick-release starch to high-quality fibre. Fibre is not merely bulk; it is a complex energy source. Through microbial fermentation in the hindgut, fibre is converted into volatile fatty acids (VFAs), which provide sustained, fizz-free energy.To support a recovering gut, owners should look toward super-fibres that offer more calorie density than standard hay:Alfalfa: Highly digestible and rich in calcium, alfalfa acts as a natural buffer against stomach acid. It provides the protein necessary for muscle maintenance without the heating effects of grain.Beet Pulp: This is a powerhouse for winter weight maintenance. Beet pulp contains nearly double the digestible energy of grass and is rich in pectin. Pectin is a soluble fibre that strengthens the stomachs mucus barrier and acts as a prebiotic. Remarkably, research suggests that adding pectin-rich sources can improve the digestibility of other forageslike hay or alfalfaby 10% to 25%.ConclusionRetirement from training does not mean a racehorse stops needing fuel; it means they need a different kind of fuel. Simply turning them out for the winter often isnt enough to counteract the physiological stresses of their past. By replacing high-starch rations with a diverse array of high-quality fibres, owners can stabilise the microbiome, help the gastric lining, and ensure their horse maintains a healthy condition. A thoughtful, fibre-first approach enables ex-racehorses to move on into their new lives with all the health and wellbeing they deserve.If you need any feeding advice, contact an equine nutritionist or a member of the British Horse Feeds team on 01765 680300 or enquiries@britishhorsefeeds.comThe post Feeding the Ex-Racehorse: Winter Management and Digestive Recovery appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Ulcers Uncovered: How to Prevent Equine Gastric Ulcers with Fibre-First FeedingEquine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) isnt just a performance horse problem it can affect any horse or pony, from top athletes to your favourite hacking buddy. Understanding what causes gastric ulcers in horses, how to spot the signs, and natural feeding strategies like fibre mash feeds is essential for prevention and long term gut-health.What Are Equine Gastric Ulcers (EGUS) and Why Do They Matter?EGUS refers to ulceration within the horses stomach and can impact comfort, behaviour, performance, and overall wellbeing. While many owners are more clued up today, the why, what, and how behind ulcers still needs clear, practical explanationespecially around management, feeding, and exercise.Key takeaways:Ulcers can occur in any horse or pony, not only racehorses or highlevel performance horses.Management factors such as stress, stabling, travel, and highstarch diets increase risk.Prevention focuses on fibre-first feeding, continuous access to forage, and reducing fasting periods.Understanding the Horses Stomach: Acid Zones and Risk AreasTo understand why ulcers happen, you need an understanding of the horses stomach. The horses stomach has two distinct regions, each with different protection levels against acid:The Acid Factory (Lower Glandular Region): Continuously produces strong acid to break down food. It has a protective mucus layer think of it like a non-stick coating.The Danger Zone (Upper Squamous Region): This top section acts like a reservoir, but lacks a protective mucus layer. When acid splashes up here particularly during exercise or when the stomach is empty ulcers may form.Fibre First: Why High-Fibre Diets Protect Against UlcersHorses are designed to graze almost continuously. As hindgut fermenters that thrive on fibre and consistent intake.The buffer effect: Because the stomach is always making acid, a steady supply of forage creates a fibre mat that literally soaks up the acid and acts as a acid buffer.The saliva shield: Chewing fibre stimulates saliva production. Saliva, which is naturally alkaline, helps neutralise stomach acid as the horse swallows.Modern Management vs Natural FeedingOur management of performance horses often creates the perfect storm for ulcers:Stress and routine changes: Travel, competition, and stabling can spike stress hormones and reduce blood flow to the stomach lining, making it more vulnerable to acid.High starch, low fibre diets: Concentrates may be needed for some horses, but excess starch alongside insufficient forage increases EGUS risk.Fasting periods: Long gaps without forage mean acid accumulates without the protective saliva and fibre mat.Its a myth that ulcers only plague racehorses they can affect any horse or pony.More recent research shows*:Racehorses: Up to 93% are affected.Performance/Sport Horses: Around 63% have them.Leisure Horses/Ponies: Up to 60% have been reported to have ulcers.Foals: Even youngsters are susceptible, with rates between 5084%!The Exercise Connection: How Workload Impacts Ulcer RiskDuring intense movement stomach contents are sloshed upward, bathing the vulnerable squamous area in acid for longer. Horses worked most days of the weekespecially at speed or collectionmay show higher ulcer risk. One study even noted that horses exercised for more than five days a week had a 10% higher ulcer rate.Simple fix: Give your horse hay or a fibre feed like Fibre-Beet before grooming or tacking up. This helps form a protective fibre mat that reduces acid splash in the stomach during exercise. Fibre-Beet is a super-fibre conditioning feed that alongside beet pulp includes alfalfa for added quality protein and is formulated to keep the gut healthy.Spotting the signsTheres no single, simple symptom, but keep an eye out for:Girthiness or sensitivity around the bellyWeight loss or poor coatCrankiness or unusual behaviourReduced performance or reluctance to workRecurring mild colicDiagnosis: If you suspect a problem, always call and consult with your vet. The only way to know for sure is a gastroscopy (a camera scope into the stomach), which requires fasting and sedation.Fibre First: Simple management tipsFor long-term protection, remember:Fibre: Your horses diet should be mostly high-fibre, low-starch forage. Only add concentrates when and if you need extra energy for work.Turnout time: Maximise grazing time. This mimics the wild horses continuous eating pattern.Ad-lib forage: If stabled, always provide hay so they can constantly graze and buffer acid.Before work and potentially stressful happenings: Feed fibre (hay or a small fibre mash) before stressful events like a vet visit or travelling to a competition. This acts as a protective barrier against acid splashing.Fibre-Beet from British Horse Feeds Fibre-Beet has been awarded the Gastric Ulcer Feed Assurance Mark by the British Equestrian Trade Association, confirming its a safe choice for horses prone to EGUS as part of a balanced diet.To find more information about Fibre-Beet mash go.The post Ulcers Uncovered: How to Prevent Equine Gastric Ulcers with Fibre-First Feeding appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Ulcers Uncovered: How to Prevent Equine Gastric Ulcers with Fibre-First FeedingEquine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) isnt just a performance horse problem it can affect any horse or pony, from top athletes to your favourite hacking buddy. Understanding what causes gastric ulcers in horses, how to spot the signs, and natural feeding strategies like fibre mash feeds is essential for prevention and long term gut-health.What Are Equine Gastric Ulcers (EGUS) and Why Do They Matter?EGUS refers to ulceration within the horses stomach and can impact comfort, behaviour, performance, and overall wellbeing. While many owners are more clued up today, the why, what, and how behind ulcers still needs clear, practical explanationespecially around management, feeding, and exercise.Key takeaways:Ulcers can occur in any horse or pony, not only racehorses or highlevel performance horses.Management factors such as stress, stabling, travel, and highstarch diets increase risk.Prevention focuses on fibre-first feeding, continuous access to forage, and reducing fasting periods.Understanding the Horses Stomach: Acid Zones and Risk AreasTo understand why ulcers happen, you need an understanding of the horses stomach. The horses stomach has two distinct regions, each with different protection levels against acid:The Acid Factory (Lower Glandular Region): Continuously produces strong acid to break down food. It has a protective mucus layer think of it like a non-stick coating.The Danger Zone (Upper Squamous Region): This top section acts like a reservoir, but lacks a protective mucus layer. When acid splashes up here particularly during exercise or when the stomach is empty ulcers may form.Fibre First: Why High-Fibre Diets Protect Against UlcersHorses are designed to graze almost continuously. As hindgut fermenters that thrive on fibre and consistent intake.The buffer effect: Because the stomach is always making acid, a steady supply of forage creates a fibre mat that literally soaks up the acid and acts as a acid buffer.The saliva shield: Chewing fibre stimulates saliva production. Saliva, which is naturally alkaline, helps neutralise stomach acid as the horse swallows.Modern Management vs Natural FeedingOur management of performance horses often creates the perfect storm for ulcers:Stress and routine changes: Travel, competition, and stabling can spike stress hormones and reduce blood flow to the stomach lining, making it more vulnerable to acid.High starch, low fibre diets: Concentrates may be needed for some horses, but excess starch alongside insufficient forage increases EGUS risk.Fasting periods: Long gaps without forage mean acid accumulates without the protective saliva and fibre mat.Its a myth that ulcers only plague racehorses they can affect any horse or pony.More recent research shows*:Racehorses: Up to 93% are affected.Performance/Sport Horses: Around 63% have them.Leisure Horses/Ponies: Up to 60% have been reported to have ulcers.Foals: Even youngsters are susceptible, with rates between 5084%!The Exercise Connection: How Workload Impacts Ulcer RiskDuring intense movement stomach contents are sloshed upward, bathing the vulnerable squamous area in acid for longer. Horses worked most days of the weekespecially at speed or collectionmay show higher ulcer risk. One study even noted that horses exercised for more than five days a week had a 10% higher ulcer rate.Simple fix: Give your horse hay or a fibre feed like Fibre-Beet before grooming or tacking up. This helps form a protective fibre mat that reduces acid splash in the stomach during exercise. Fibre-Beet is a super-fibre conditioning feed that alongside beet pulp includes alfalfa for added quality protein and is formulated to keep the gut healthy.Spotting the signsTheres no single, simple symptom, but keep an eye out for:Girthiness or sensitivity around the bellyWeight loss or poor coatCrankiness or unusual behaviourReduced performance or reluctance to workRecurring mild colicDiagnosis: If you suspect a problem, always call and consult with your vet. The only way to know for sure is a gastroscopy (a camera scope into the stomach), which requires fasting and sedation.Fibre First: Simple management tipsFor long-term protection, remember:Fibre: Your horses diet should be mostly high-fibre, low-starch forage. Only add concentrates when and if you need extra energy for work.Turnout time: Maximise grazing time. This mimics the wild horses continuous eating pattern.Ad-lib forage: If stabled, always provide hay so they can constantly graze and buffer acid.Before work and potentially stressful happenings: Feed fibre (hay or a small fibre mash) before stressful events like a vet visit or travelling to a competition. This acts as a protective barrier against acid splashing.Fibre-Beet from British Horse Feeds Fibre-Beet has been awarded the Gastric Ulcer Feed Assurance Mark by the British Equestrian Trade Association, confirming its a safe choice for horses prone to EGUS as part of a balanced diet.To find more information about Fibre-Beet mash go.The post Keeping Your Horse Hydrated in Winter Duplicate [#13518] appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Keeping Your Horse Hydration in WinterThis winter in the UK has been unpredictableunseasonably mild at times, yet dipping just below zero with the occasional frosty, icy morning. With such changeable weather, deciding which rug to use can be tricky. But one thing remains constant: hydration is just as important as ever.Lower temperatures, frozen troughs, and changes in forage and feed can all reduce water intake, making horses more vulnerable to dehydrationeven when its not hot outside. Keeping fresh water accessible and encouraging drinking is essential across all temperature ranges.Water is critical to your horse or ponys health and performance. With water being 70% of their body make-up. Ensuring proper hydration is essential and can help prevent associated issues, support healthy digestion and overall well-being throughout the cold months.The tell-tale signs of dehydration include lethargy, depression, dullness in the eyes, dry skin and mouth, thick and sticky saliva, or darker looking urine.Why Hydration in Winter Matters.In summer, horses often get a significant portion of their hydration from succulent, moisture-rich grass. In winter, when grass is sparse or frosty, that natural moisture disappears, yet the horses need for water remains.Reduced water intake (for example because buckets freeze or because the water is very cold) combined with a diet rich in dry forage (like hay) can increase the risk of impaction colic, as dry feed passes through the gut less easily without enough moisture.Winter also brings shorter daylight hours and colder, wetter weather, which means horses spend more time sheltered or stabled, reducing grazing time and natural water intake.How Can You Encourage Winter Water Intake?Cold water, especially when it is icy, can be uninviting. In winter, aim to give stabled horses clean water that is just above freezing, or ideally at a tepid temperature. Some horses drink significantly more when water is warmer (not hot!)Use large, slow-to-freeze containers. Big water buckets or troughs freeze more slowly than small onesCheck and break ice frequently; multiple times a day if needed. On frosty mornings, water sources can freeze overnight. As part of your daily checks, remove any ice to guarantee accessProvide multiple water sources to avoid competition. If horses are kept in groups, a dominant horse might prevent others from reaching a single water point. Having extra buckets or troughs means every horse has a fair chance to drinkOffer water around feeding times. Horses often drink significant amounts within one to two hours of eating, especially when consuming dry winter forage. Offering fresh water at mealtimes helps encourage intake when their thirst drive is naturally higher. Add some hot water to the bucket to take the edge off the coldness.Add moisture-rich feed or soaked fibre mashes, such as Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet. Since hay and haylage are much drier than summer grass, soaking hay (or feeding haylage where appropriate) can add extra moisture to their diet and help with hydrationProvide free access to salt or a salt block. Salt encourages thirst, which encourages horses to drink moreSo, if youre facing a lean hay season this winter, dont worry! Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet are unbeetable fibre alternatives to help maintain your horses essential daily forage intake of 2% of bodyweight to support a healthy gut function all season long.What About a Hydration Winter Warmer?A highly nutritious, quick soaking beet pulp feed with no added molasses, Speedi-Beet is the perfect feed for a hydrating and nourishing winter warmer. Speedi-Beet is able to provide a 500kg horse with up to almost half of its daily water intake when soaked as per instructions as well as providing extra energy, when made with warm water, it will increase hydration and keep your horse toasty warm, from the inside out.The post Keeping Your Horse Hydrated in Winter appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

The winter months can be a tough time for horse owners, especially when it comes to thinking about how to keep our four-legged friends well-fed and comfortable. Forage think hay, grass and other fibrous feeds is at the heart of most horses diets, especially when thinking about veteran vitality. But after the dry summer of 2025, finding good-quality hay might be trickier (and pricier) than usual. So, what can you do to prepare?What happens to grass in a drought? What does that mean for your horse?DDepending on how long a period of drought lasts, grass and broadleaf plants can change quite a bit. Grass species can end up with higher protein but less energy, whilst legumes and broadleaf plants can show lower protein, but higher levels of key macronutrients. Though more protein might sound like a win, it usually comes alongside less fibre, lower quality energy output, more water-soluble sugars and reduced levels of minerals like phosphorus.Hay cut from stressed grass due to hot, dry conditions can suffer from the same issues as the grass it came from. This means horses may face lower energy intake, and a hindgut imbalance due to excess protein and fibre changes, resulting potentially in reduced overall condition.Why forage matters - especially in winterHorses are built to graze almost constantly up to 20 hours a day in some cases. In the colder months, when turnout is limited and grass is scarce, they need even more fibrous food to keep warm and maintain their condition. Thats why hay, haylage and other fibrous feeds are so important during winter. But if your hay supply isnt what it was, there is a simple solution.Meet your winter helpers: Speedi-Beet and Fibre-BeetThis is where British Horse Feeds Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet step in, as the forage supplementers and hay replacers of choice. These beet-based soaked fibre feeds are designed to:Improve hindgut fermentation and fibre digestibilityExtend and enhance poor-quality haySupport hydration and gut healthOffset excess protein and sugar levels in stressed forageBoth feeds deliver a similar amount of energy to hay/haylage, just 1kg of dry Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet can replace up to 1.5kg of hay after soaking. Feeding it in several smaller meals also mimics a horses natural grazing habits, keeping them happy and healthy.Who is it best for?Speedi-Beet can be added to your hay ration to boost digestibility and increase heat from fermentation in the hindgut helping your horse maintain energy and body warmth. Speedi-Beet is easy to digest and low in sugar and starch, making it ideal for horses prone to laminitis when fed as part of a balanced diet.Fibre-Beet adds to these benefits by providing a more conditioning feed for horses who are poor doers or fussy feeders. It combines original Speedi-Beet with protein-packed alfalfa and oat fibre, making it an easily digestible, nutrition powerhouse. Biotin, calcium and sodium help support muscle tone and overall condition, and the peppermint flavour makes it extra appealing.Plus, the wet mash format helps keep equines hydrated, a big win in chilly winter months.So, if youre facing a lean hay season this winter, dont worry! Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet are unbeetable fibre alternatives to help maintain your horses essential daily forage intake of 2% of bodyweight to support a healthy gut function all season long.How to useSoak 1kg dry Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet mash to replace 1.5kg of hay after soakingMix with chaff (2:1 soaked:dry) for a hay-like feedIntroduce gradually if your horse is unfamiliar with soaked fibre feedsSpeedi-Beet or Fibre Beet can replace up to 50% of your horses forageand even 100% short-termTip: Some horses may take time to adapt to wet feeds start with a dampened mix and slowly increase the water ratio.To explore effective strategies for coping with hay shortages, consider visiting theBritish Horse Society website.Visit The British Horse Society WebsiteThe post Dont let less forage worry you heres how to keep your horse happy and healthy appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

When it comes to feeding horses, theres no shortage of advice but not all of it is grounded in science. With so much outdated or misleading information still circulating in yards across the UK, its time to clear up some of the biggest misconceptions.Here are 10 common equine feeding myths debunked with expert backed facts1. Hard feed is more important than forageMyth: Forage is just a filler horses get what they really need from hard feed.Truth: Horses are trickle feeders, designed to graze for up to 16 hours a day. Forage should make up at least 1.52% of a horses bodyweight per day (around 7.510kg for a 500kg horse). It maintains gut health, reduces boredom and supports the microbial population essential for digestion. Hard feed is sometimes needed for extra energy or nutrients, but forage should always be the foundation of a horses diet2. Two big hard feeds a day is best.Myth: Feeding twice daily with large feeds is ideal for most horses.Truth: A horses stomach is small and constantly produces acid. Feeding large, infrequent meals of hard feed can overwhelm the digestive system, increasing the risk of colic and ulcers. Instead, feed small amounts often and make sure forage is available throughout the day.3. A weekly bran mash 'cleanses' the system.Myth: Giving a warm bran mash once a week helps clear out the digestive system.Truth: Theres no scientific basis for this. In fact, suddenly changing a horses feed, even just once a week, can disrupt the hindgut microbes and lead to digestive upset. Wheat bran also has a poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which can contribute to long-term imbalances if fed regularly. If you want to feed a mash, opt for soaked fibre-based products that are designed for consistent use.4. Horses shouldn't be fed or given water around exerciseMyth: Never feed or water a horse just before or after work as it causes colic.Truth: Horses should have access to water before and after exercise to stay hydrated. Small amounts of forage pre-exercise can help buffer stomach acid. The only caution is avoiding large hard feeds within about an hour before intense work. Post-exercise, letting a horse cool down slightly before offering food and water is sensible, but they should not be left dehydrated.5. Alfalfa (lucerne) makes horses fizzyMyth: Feeding alfalfa makes horses hot or excitable.Truth: Alfalfa is rich in protein and calcium, but its not high in sugar or starch, the usual culprits behind excitable behaviour. When fed as part of a balanced ration and in the correct quantities, alfalfa can be incredibly beneficial, especially for supporting muscle tone and gut health. Any fizz is more likely to be caused by excess calories or cereal-based feeds, not alfalfa.6. Feed balancers cause weight gainMyth: Feed balancers are high in calories and make horses fat.Truth: Balancers are low-calorie, concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals and quality protein. Theyre designed to top up nutrients in forage-only diets without adding significant energy. Most are fed in small quantities typically 100500g per day, and are actually ideal for good doers, native types or horses in light work.7. Every horse needs a supplementMyth: You need to feed a supplement no matter what else your horse is eating.Truth: If your horse is on a complete feed at recommended levels, or receiving a balancer, they likely dont need any additional supplementation. Over-supplementing can be wasteful. Supplements should only be added when theres a proven need, ideally based on forage analysis or vet/nutritionist guidance8. Haylage it too rich for most horsesMyth: Haylage causes weight gain or digestive issues hay is safer.Truth: Not all haylage is overly rich. Its nutritional content varies depending on how and when it was cut, and some haylage is lower in energy than many late-cut hays. With proper analysis and portion control, haylage can suit most horses, including those prone to laminitis, especially when soaked or rationed9. Good hay is all a horse needs, no hard feed reuiredMyth: If youve got top-quality hay, theres no need for hard feed.Truth: While good hay provides fibre and energy, it can still be low in essential micronutrients like copper, selenium and vitamin E. Unless the forage is analysed and proven to be fully balanced, most horses benefit from a balancer or appropriate hard feed to fill in the nutritional gaps, especially if theyre in work or have increased demands10. You must soak all dry feeds to avoid chokeMyth: Dry feeds like sugar beet pulp or chaff must always be soaked to prevent choking.Truth: Soaking is sensible for some horses, particularly those that bolt their feed or have dental issues but not all dry feeds ned to be soaked when fed properly. Always follow manufacturer instructions. If your horse eats calmly and has access to water, soaked feed isnt always essential, though it can help with hydration and palatabilityFinal ThoughtsFeeding horses doesnt have to be complicated but it does need to be based on science and the horses natural biology, not old-fashioned stable yard myths. A diet built around quality forage, tailored supplements where needed and proper feeding routines will keep your horse healthier, happier and performing at their best.For more information please head to our website https://www.britishhorsefeeds.com/or call 01765680300 for any nutritional advice.The post Top 10 Feed Myths Debunked appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

We know good nutrition starts with a healthy gut. Understanding how your horse digests feed can help you make better choices for their health, behaviour and performance. Heres a breakdown of how the horses digestive system works and how the right feeding approach can make a real differenceThe Foregut - Starting Digestion the Right WayThe foregut is made up of the stomach and small intestine and is the starting point of digestion. The stomach produces acid and digestive enzymes to break down food before it moves into the small intestine, which is divided into the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Here, proteins, fats and some carbohydrates are digested and absorbed.The challenge? The horses stomach is relatively small and continuously produces acid. Large meals or high starch feeds can cause imbalances, leading to digestive upsets or even gastric ulcersHow British Horse Feeds Can Help:Feeds such as Speedi-Beet, Fibre-Beet and Cooked Linseed are ideal for supporting foregut and hindgut health. They are low in starch and sugar, easy to digest and gentle on the stomach, helping maintain a steady release of energyThe Hindgut - Powering the Horse Through FibreOnce feed reaches the hindgut, digestion shifts from enzymes to microbes. The large colon and small colon house trillions of beneficial microbes collectively known as the microbiome. These microbes ferment fibre, producing valuable energy in the form of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).A balanced hindgut microbiome is essential for fibre digestion, energy production and overall health. Disruptions caused by stress, abrupt feed changes or low fibre diets can lead to digestive problems like colic and poor performanceHow British Horse Feeds Can Help:Products like Fibre-Beet and Speedi-Beet provide a highly digestible, soaked fibre mash to promote a healthy hindgut environment. These feeds help fuel the good bacteria and support stable energy levels without excess starch, keeping the hindgut in optimal condition.Feeding your horse a prebiotic can support fibre digestibility and gut health in the hindgut. Speedi-Beet which contains a natural prebiotic is 25% more digestible than other fibres such as hay and lucerne. This is because beet pulp is rich in pectin, is a soluble fibre and as Speedi-Beet is micronized, this increases fermentation in the hind gutThe Gut-Brain Connection - A Calmer, Happier HorseDid you know the gut can influence your horses behaviour? Stress and poor gut health can alter the balance of microbes reducing beneficial bacteria and increasing harmful strains. This can lead to anxiety, heightened flight responses and even reduced focus on the rider or handlerHow British Horse Feeds Can Help:Feeding a fibre-first diet with products like Fibre-Beet and Speedi-Beet encourages a healthier, more balanced microbiome. This supports calmer behaviour and helps to reduce the risk of digestive stress during exercise, competition or travelFeeding for Performance, Recovery, and WellbeingWhether your horse is in hard work, recovering from illness, or a happy hacker, digestive health is the foundation for well-being. Choosing feeds that are gentle on the stomach and supportive of hindgut health can help improve performance and behaviour. We recommend feeding vitamins and minerals or a quality balancer alongside Speedi-Beet or Fibre-Beet to ensure your horses feed is nutritionally balanced.British Horse Feeds has options suitable for horses in varying levels of work, from high-performance athletes to leisure companions. Our focus on fibre ensures your horses gut stays healthy, energy levels stay consistent and behavioural balance is maintained.Discover our full range of feeds here.The post Understanding the Horses Digestive System: Why Gut Health Matters appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Summer is here and its brought more than just sunshine. Summer weather can make pasture conditions highly unpredictable. Factors like heat, rainfall, soil quality, plant species, and how heavily the field is grazed all influence not just how much grass is available, but also its nutritional contentespecially in terms of calories and water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC). Grass naturally produces simple sugars through photosynthesis, and when production exceeds the plants immediate needs, it stores the excess as fructan. Although fructan isnt technically a sugar, its still a carbohydrate and is processed differently in the horses digestive system. What makes this tricky is that both sugar and fructan levels in grass can shift dramatically within just a few hours, especially after rain follows a dry spell.Whether your horse tends to gain weight easily or struggles to hold condition, nows the time to stay one step ahead. Managing their diet and grazing access during these unpredictable conditions is key to keeping them healthy all summer long.But why is weight management especially important now?Horses need a healthy diet and regular exercise to stay in good shape, just like us humans do. Whether its trouble maintaining a healthy body condition or excessive weight gain, its important we do our bit to maintain our horses health and well-being. Despite its seemingly harmless appearance, summer grass can be high in sugars.So how can I help manage my horse's weight this season?We have put together a few simple measures that can help to reduce any potential issues before they arise.Strip grazing is useful to not only protect your fields and healthy grass growth but also helps manage your horses grass intake.If you are fortunate and your fields are extremely lush, turning out in mnages with (soaked) hay is another useful idea. It still allows your horse to stretch their legs reducing time in the stable and allow you to be able to monitor the amount they are eating.A grazing muzzle is a helpful tool in slowing down eating. Studies have shown it can reduce intake by up to 60-80%; however, these should be introduced slowly and under supervision to begin with and not to be left on 24/7.Keep the score! Monitoring your horses body condition through regular check-ins can be a great way to keep track of your horses weight. You can use a weigh tape to track changes and adapt your management regime as necessary.A low-sugar, high-fibre diet is key! Feeding a quality fibre source like Speedi-Beet supports digestive health and can help your horse maintain a steady, healthy weight.Get moving! It is important to encourage regular movement through varied types of exercise, whether thats hacking, lunging, schooling, or competing.Change up turn-out times! During the different stages of the day when grass grows, the levels of fructans differ. If possible, turnout at night, which is when the lowest amount of sugar is produced in grass.Feeding a fibre feed like Speedi-Beet before turning your horse out can also help prevent them from wanting to gorge on grass, so they feel fuller while consuming less calories.Join us for our summer campaign!This Summer, well be sharing our expert advice and feeding tips all around weight management. Keep a close eye on our social media channels, website, and newsletter for practical guidance to support you in helping to manage your horses weight this season!Contact the team here at British Horse Feeds for more information and advice on 01765 680300.The post Managing Your Horses Weight This Summer appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Laminitis is top of the list of conditions we owners do not want our horses to suffer from. So, we spoke to Nicola Menzies- Gow, Professor of Equine Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College to find out more about the latest thinking on Laminitis and what we can do to minimise the risk to our horses.What do we know about Laminitis?Recent RVC research into Equine Laminitis shows it is now considered to be a clinical syndrome associated with systemic disease, meaning it affects the whole body not just the hoof laminae.In around 90% of cases the horse will have endocrinopathic laminitis or hyperinsulinaemia-associated laminitis (HAL). The underlying root of the cause of these types of laminitis is related to abnormal insulin levels in the blood. The reason for the high insulin levels is connected to the occurrence of Cushings (PPID) and or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).The other types of laminitis are either related to sepsis, where the horse is very ill and the underlying condition triggers laminitis in the feet, or supporting limb laminitis which is brought on by too much weight being carried by one foot where the tissues become starved of oxygen.If we focus on the main bulk of laminitis cases the endocrine system of the horse is a major factor in the onset of laminitis. Both EMS and Cushings (PPID) can affect the concentrations of insulin in the body, a hormone produced by the pancreas whose normal role is to bring sugar levels down after a meal.The main effect of EMS is the production of insulin above normal levels. The body then produces even more insulin as the horse eats high starch food which in turn heightens the levels. It is this inability to balance insulin production which creates the perfect storm for laminitis to develop.Put simply, Cushings Disease causes the Pituitary Gland to lose its off switch and therefore too much hormone is produced. Some of these hormones will antagonise or counteract the effect of insulin in balancing sugar levels this results in the body producing more insulin. It is this cascade effect which triggers the laminitis.Many horses are not diagnosed with Cushings until later in life. However, it seems as if the risk of developing laminitis in animals with Cushings could be closely connected to undiagnosed EMS and research is continuing into this link.How can we manage these underlying hormone issues?The main ways to manage these conditions are with medication and dietary control. With EMS and Cushings some horses can be overweight, others underweight so you really must put together a plan based on each individual horse dependent on their needs.It basically comes down to managing the risk of laminitis occurring, but the threat will always be there in horses with these conditions.Following any prescription of medication from your vet, its important to also look at your horses diet. The single most important thing you can do is ensure a fibre-based diet is what you feed. Starch and cereals are basically sugar and once eaten immediately send insulin levels up.Fibre based products such as Fibre-Beet or Speedi-Beet have low levels of starch and sugar and can be combined with long fibre such as (soaked) hay with a good quality low-sugar balancer as a complete diet. If a horse is underweight, oil-based additional calories should be added in the form of liquid oil or cooked linseed.Autumn and Spring - key risk management timesIn addition to a fibre first based diet, managing the intake of grass for your horse or pony at risk of laminitis is crucial. Both Autumn and Spring can be difficult times when your management skills can be tested.In addition to reducing the hours of turnout and size of grazing area, keep an eye on the areas your horse or pony is not nibbling away at. It is quite telling to see how much grass grows in these areas bear in mind the reason why it isnt that long in the field is because it has already been eaten shoot by shoot and blade by blade by your horse at a time when sugar content is highest.By implementing your individual management regime with support from your vet and/or a nutritionist you can reduce the risks of laminitis. Contact the team here at British Horse Feeds for more information and advice on 01765 680300.The post Laminitis in Horses: Latest Research, Causes & Risk Management Tips appeared first on British Horse Feeds.

Laminitis is top of the list of conditions we owners do not want our horses to suffer from. So, we spoke to Nicola Menzies- Gow, Professor of Equine Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College to find out more about the latest thinking on Laminitis and what we can do to minimise the risk to our horses.What do we know about Laminitis?Recent RVC research into Equine Laminitis shows it is now considered to be a clinical syndrome associated with systemic disease, meaning it affects the whole body not just the hoof laminae.In around 90% of cases the horse will have endocrinopathic laminitis or hyperinsulinaemia-associated laminitis (HAL). The underlying root of the cause of these types of laminitis is related to abnormal insulin levels in the blood. The reason for the high insulin levels is connected to the occurrence of Cushings (PPID) and or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).The other types of laminitis are either related to sepsis, where the horse is very ill and the underlying condition triggers laminitis in the feet, or supporting limb laminitis which is brought on by too much weight being carried by one foot where the tissues become starved of oxygen.If we focus on the main bulk of laminitis cases the endocrine system of the horse is a major factor in the onset of laminitis. Both EMS and Cushings (PPID) can affect the concentrations of insulin in the body, a hormone produced by the pancreas whose normal role is to bring sugar levels down after a meal.The main effect of EMS is the production of insulin above normal levels. The body then produces even more insulin as the horse eats high starch food which in turn heightens the levels. It is this inability to balance insulin production which creates the perfect storm for laminitis to develop.Put simply, Cushings Disease causes the Pituitary Gland to lose its off switch and therefore too much hormone is produced. Some of these hormones will antagonise or counteract the effect of insulin in balancing sugar levels this results in the body producing more insulin. It is this cascade effect which triggers the laminitis.Many horses are not diagnosed with Cushings until later in life. However, it seems as if the risk of developing laminitis in animals with Cushings could be closely connected to undiagnosed EMS and research is continuing into this link.How can we manage these underlying hormone issues?The main ways to manage these conditions are with medication and dietary control. With EMS and Cushings some horses can be overweight, others underweight so you really must put together a plan based on each individual horse dependent on their needs.It basically comes down to managing the risk of laminitis occurring, but the threat will always be there in horses with these conditions.Following any prescription of medication from your vet, its important to also look at your horses diet. The single most important thing you can do is ensure a fibre-based diet is what you feed. Starch and cereals are basically sugar and once eaten immediately send insulin levels up.Fibre based products such as Fibre-Beet or Speedi-Beet have low levels of starch and sugar and can be combined with long fibre such as (soaked) hay with a good quality low-sugar balancer as a complete diet. If a horse is underweight, oil-based additional calories should be added in the form of liquid oil or cooked linseed.Autumn and Spring - key risk management timesIn addition to a fibre first based diet, managing the intake of grass for your horse or pony at risk of laminitis is crucial. Both Autumn and Spring can be difficult times when your management skills can be tested.In addition to reducing the hours of turnout and size of grazing area, keep an eye on the areas your horse or pony is not nibbling away at. It is quite telling to see how much grass grows in these areas bear in mind the reason why it isnt that long in the field is because it has already been eaten shoot by shoot and blade by blade by your horse at a time when sugar content is highest.By implementing your individual management regime with support from your vet and/or a nutritionist you can reduce the risks of laminitis. Contact the team here at British Horse Feeds for more information and advice on 01765 680300.The post Laminitis New Thinking appeared first on British Horse Feeds.