At one time, only racehorses were thought to suffer from equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). Now, it is understood that a wide range of horses and ponies can be affected by this painful condition and poor nutritional management can be a contributing factor.
Although some diets have been shown to increase the risk of gastric ulcers, those featuring high-fibre feeds are considered better suited to the needs of horses prone to EGUS. This is partly because the fibre acts as a physical barrier to help prevent acid splashing on the non-glandular part of the stomach. Providing ad-lib forage also ensures increased chew time and saliva production to buffer the stomach acid.
All horses including those with limited turnout, poor forage eaters or older horses with dental issues can be offered alternatives such as EquiGlo Quick Soak 10 Minute Beet, from Henry Bell & Co, to ensure a healthy high-fibre intake.
This British superfood is made from unmolassed, micronized sugar beet, which is highly palatable, low in sugar and almost free of starch. It is also rich in minerals, has a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus, provides bulk, moderate energy and aids rehydration because of its water content after soaking. The beet’s rich pectin content also holds water in the gut, creating a fluid reservoir for horses exercising for long periods of time, such as those in endurance.
The fibre that EquiGlo contains is highly digestible and naturally supports healthy gut function. Researchers have found that feeding sugar beet to horses increases the digestibility of the cell wall fibre in grass, hay and alfalfa, probably because of the beet’s effects on the beneficial fibrolytic bacteria in the gut.
EquiGlo Quick Soak 10 Minute Beet is one of 14 feeds approved by the BETA feed assurance scheme, developed in consultation with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, to highlight suitable feeds for equines affected by gastric ulcers and to help owners make an informed choice.
After passing a stringent, three-stage application process, which includes the examination of all ingredients, labelling, marketing claims and analysis by an independent laboratory, EquiGlo is allowed to feature the scheme’s logo on all packaging, along with a helpful advice panel listing key measures for concerned owners to help care for their equines.
For further information, email info@equiglohorsefeeds.co.uk or telephone 01476 565761.
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