Spring Grass Management: Why EquiNectar is Valuable for Your Horse’s Digestive Health

01


Introduction

As the first hints of spring begin to emerge across British pastures, horse owners face one of the most challenging transitions in the equine calendar. The shift from winter feeding to spring grazing represents a crucial period that can significantly impact a horse's health, performance, and overall wellbeing. This transition period, marked by the emergence of fresh, sugar-rich grass, brings with it a complex set of challenges that require careful management and understanding (2).

02


Understanding the Spring Grass Challenge

The complexity of spring grass management extends far beyond simple feeding adjustments. Research by our team, conducted at Redwings Horse Sanctuary has revealed the intricate relationship between spring grass consumption and equine digestive health (1). When horses are transferred to pasture with new grass, they become particularly susceptible to various digestive issues, with laminitis being a primary concern. This vulnerability isn't merely about increased sugar intake; it's about the grass's unique composition during rapid growth phases, particularly in areas grazed below 5cm where sugar content is highest (2). 


The challenge lies in the unique composition of spring grass, particularly its high concentration of fructans - long-chain polymers of fructose that prove especially challenging for horses to digest. These compounds, abundant in rapidly growing spring grass, create a cascade of digestive challenges that can impact everything from gut health to behaviour and performance.

03


The Scientific Basis

Dr Rosemary Waring's research has illuminated the specific mechanisms behind spring grass-related digestive issues (1). The study demonstrates that fructans pose a particular challenge because they aren't effectively metabolised by enzymes in the upper gut. Instead, these complex compounds make their way to the hindgut, where they become fodder for bacterial populations (3). This process triggers a chain reaction that can destabilise the entire digestive system.

When these undigested fructans reach the hindgut, certain bacterial populations use them as an energy source, leading to rapid proliferation. This sudden bacterial growth produces toxic compounds that can increase gut wall permeability and disrupt the natural balance of the horse's microbiome (3). The consequences of this disruption extend far beyond simple digestive discomfort, potentially impacting the horse's overall health and performance.

04


The EquiNectar Solution

EquiNectar's formulation directly addresses these spring-specific challenges through its comprehensive enzyme profile, including crucial fructanases that specifically target and break down fructans. This scientific approach tackles the root cause of spring grass-related digestive issues before they can impact the hindgut, providing a preventative rather than reactive solution to seasonal challenges.

  • Clinical Evidence of Effectiveness

The compelling evidence for EquiNectar's effectiveness comes from extensive clinical trials, notably the comprehensive study at Redwings Horse Sanctuary (1). This research involved 45 ex-leisure horses, divided into control and treatment groups of 21 and 24 horses respectively. The results proved particularly illuminating: horses receiving EquiNectar maintained gut profiles remarkably similar to their pre-spring baseline, whilst the control group exhibited significant variations in their gut microbiome. These findings demonstrate EquiNectar's capacity to maintain digestive stability during seasonal transitions.

  • Practical Applications and Observable Benefits

Recent observations from veterinary professionals, including noted expert Tom Beech, have identified numerous manifestations of spring grass-related discomfort that EquiNectar can effectively address (2). Physical symptoms often include digestive irregularities, changes in gait and movement patterns, and various forms of discomfort. Beyond these physical manifestations, horses may exhibit behavioural changes, including increased reactivity and reluctance to perform certain movements (2).

  • The Importance of Timing

The implementation of EquiNectar supplementation requires strategic timing for optimal effectiveness. Beginning supplementation before the full onset of spring grass growth proves crucial for establishing beneficial enzyme levels and preparing the gut microbiome for impending dietary changes (3). This proactive approach helps maintain consistent performance and comfort levels throughout the transition period, with research indicating that the equine gut microbiome requires 4-6 weeks to optimally adjust to dietary changes (3).

  • Real-World Evidence and User Experiences

The theoretical benefits of EquiNectar find robust support in real-world applications. Recent testimonials provide compelling evidence of its effectiveness. Horse owners consistently report improvements in their animals' comfort, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. Particularly noteworthy are accounts of successful management of horses with pre-existing digestive sensitivities and those transitioning to new grazing regimes.

  • A Comprehensive Management Approach

Implementing EquiNectar as part of a spring management strategy offers multiple advantages in terms of digestive support, behavioural benefits, and physical wellness. The supplement enhances the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, improves nutrient absorption, and helps maintain optimal gut pH balance (3). These physiological benefits often translate into improved behavioural outcomes, with horses showing more consistent temperaments and better trainability during the challenging spring transition period.

  • Implementation Guidelines for Optimal Results

Successful implementation of EquiNectar supplementation requires attention to several key factors. Early introduction before the full onset of spring grass growth allows time for the establishment of beneficial digestive processes. This should be combined with careful turnout management and continued access to appropriate forage (2). Regular monitoring of the horse's condition, behaviour, and droppings provides valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the regime. 


Beyond the core implementation guidelines already discussed, it's important to note that spring grass management may require additional considerations. As horses can become more reactive and anxious during this period due to increased sugar intake and potential magnesium deficiency from spring grass consumption (4), a comprehensive approach to management becomes essential. This includes careful monitoring of both physical and behavioral changes in your horse during the transition period.

  • Scientific Validation and Ongoing Research

The efficacy of EquiNectar is supported by comprehensive research and extensive field testing. The Redwings Horse Sanctuary study (1) particularly demonstrates its value in maintaining gut health during dietary transitions, whilst ongoing research continues to reveal new benefits of enzymatic supplementation in equine digestive health. Studies show that the spring transition period can be particularly challenging due to the high sugar content in new grass growth, which can lead to increased excitability and behavioral changes in horses (4).

05


The EquiNectar Solution

As we approach another spring season, the scientific evidence and practical experience increasingly support EquiNectar's role as a crucial tool in managing the challenges of seasonal grass transitions. By addressing the fundamental issue of fructan digestion and supporting overall gut health, it offers horse owners a scientifically-validated solution to one of the most challenging periods in the equine calendar. The combination of robust research, documented success, and positive user experiences positions EquiNectar as an essential component of professional spring grass management strategy, helping to ensure horses maintain optimal health and comfort during this demanding transitional period.

References

1. Snalune, K. L., Hunter, J. O., Waring, R. H., Cauchi, M., Turner, C., & Batty, C. (2019). Modulation of the equine microbiome by pasture and feed supplements: A metabolomics approach. Integrative Food, Nutrition and Metabolism, 6, 1-4. https://equinectar.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IFNM-6-247-1.pdf


2. Nedas, B. (2024, May 10). Spring Grass Alert: How to Safeguard Your Horse’s Digestive Health. EquiNectar. https://equinectar.com/2024/05/spring-grass-alert-how-to-safeguard-your-horses-digestive-health/


3. Nedas, B. (2024, February 7).  Why February is ideal to add EquiNectar to your horse's routine. EquiNectar. https://equinectar.com/2024/02/why-february-is-ideal-to-add-equinectar-to-your-horses-routine/


4. Nedas, B. (2024, March 7). Spring Fever in Horses: Understanding and Managing Seasonal Changes. EquiNectar. https://equinectar.com/2024/03/spring-fever-in-horses-understanding-and-managing-seasonal-changes/

ABOUT EQUINECTAR

  • DESCRIPTION
  • MORE INFO
  • HOW TO FEED
DESCRIPTION

Description

EquiNectar® is a natural feed supplement, that is scientifically proven to:

  • Re-balance your horse’s gut bacteria
  • Help your horse maximise benefits from its feed
  • Improve your horse’s condition


MORE INFO

More information

EquiNectar® is produced by Tharos Ltd in the UK. It is a natural source of digestive enzymes and contains only the following ingredients:

  • Our patented enzyme rich malt extract
  • Medium chain triglycerides (from coconut oil)
  • Potassium sorbate

For more details of the enzymes within EquiNectar® take a look at the ingredients and enzymes page.

HOW TO FEED

How to feed

Simply add EquiNectar® to your horse's daily feed, using the Feeding Rate chart to determine the correct amount.

For detailed instructions about how to introduce EquiNectar, please read the comprehensive Feeding Guide page.

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