Horse Health

Understanding grass varieties: implications for horse digestibility and sugar content

Colic, EMS, Feeding Horses, Grass Issues, Hindgut Disease, Horse Health, Laminitis, Latest News / /

When managing pastures for horses, the choice of grass species is crucial due to varying digestibility and sugar content, which can significantly impact equine health. This blog explores various European grass varieties, focusing particularly on the issues associated with rye grass, a common pasture choice which is far from ideal for horses.

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Spring Grass Alert: How to Safeguard Your Horse’s Digestive Health

Colic, Equine Gut Microbiome, Feeding Horses, Grass Issues, Hindgut Disease, Horse Health, Latest News / /

As the season shifts, horse owners face the challenge of managing the fresh growth of spring grass, which can significantly impact a horse’s health. In a detailed Facebook post, Tom Beech, also known as the Osteopathic Vet, provides essential guidance on the potential effects of spring grass on equine well-being, particularly focusing on the hindgut.

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Harnessing the power of the equine gut microbiome for optimal health and performance

Equine Gut Microbiome, Feeding Horses, Hindgut Disease, Horse Health, Latest News / /

The gut microbiome, a complex and dynamic community of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in the overall health and functionality of its host. In horses, understanding the gut microbiome has become a pivotal aspect of veterinary science, with research highlighting its influence not only on physical health but also on performance, behaviour, and emotional well-being. This blog aims to discuss the equine gut microbiome and provide practical insights for horse owners to optimise their management strategies.

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Horse of the Week – MOUSE

EquiNectar Success Stories, Hindgut Disease, Horse Health, Latest News / /

Mouse, an 18.1hh Irish Sports Horse, had been struggling to gain any weight since his arrival from Ireland. His body condition was poor, and despite various diets, nothing seemed to help. Over time, he became increasingly anxious and turned into a ‘fire-breathing dragon’ in the school during winter. Within four weeks of starting on EquiNectar, Mouse was transformed. Now, three months later, we haven’t looked back. I have a completely changed horse.

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Why does eating grass make my horse irritable?

Colic, Enzymes, Equine Gut Microbiome, EquiNectar Team Research, Horse Health, Latest News, Scientific Studies / /

My name is Dr Rosemary Waring. I have spent my career as a toxicologist. I have a particular interest in digestion and the chemicals produced by the gut microbiome – when this complex mix of bacteria, viruses and fungi goes off-balance, a variety of toxic compounds are produced and these can lead to illness or poor functioning.

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Spring Fever in Horses: Understanding and Managing Seasonal Changes

Feeding Horses, Grass Issues, Horse Health, Latest News / /

Spring brings a mix of warm and cold days, often sprinkled with rain, lengthening the days and allowing more time for equestrian activities. However, this season can also introduce certain challenges, notably the phenomenon known as ‘spring fever’ in horses. Characterised by increased sprightliness, reactive, and anxious behaviours, this condition can make riding and handling horses more difficult, potentially affecting the confidence of horse owners and riders. This blog explores the underlying causes of spring fever in horses and offers strategies to manage these seasonal changes effectively.

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Pros and cons of feeding haylage

Haylage for Horses: An In-Depth Guide

Colic, EMS, Equine Gut Microbiome, Feeding Horses, Hindgut Disease, Horse Health, Laminitis, Latest News / /

Haylage is a specially prepared forage with a high dry matter content of over 40%, making it a preferred choice for horses as well as various farm livestock. Its production focuses on achieving a minimal dry matter content to ensure a lower reliance on fermentation for preservation, thus minimising the risk of Clostridia contamination.

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Deep dive into electrolytes for horses

Electrolytes for horses

Horse Health, Latest News / /

Electrolytes are essential minerals that play a crucial role in maintaining physiological balance in horses. These minerals, including sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium, are pivotal in numerous bodily functions. They are especially important in regulating nerve and muscle function, balancing fluid levels, and supporting proper hydration.

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