Equine asthma is a condition that can affect horses of all abilities, but is most frequently diagnosed in performance horses and racehorses, and is a common cause of poor performance. The term ‘equine asthma’ covers a broad range of inflammatory conditions of the lower airways, which can vary in their presentation and severity. Conditions that were previously referred to as ‘recurrent airway obstruction’, ‘heaves’, ‘inflammatory airway disease’, ‘chronic obstructive pulmonary disease’, and ‘summer pasture associated asthma’ are now all known as ‘equine asthma’.

When a horse has been diagnosed with, or is suspected of suffering from asthma, it is natural for us to want to provide them with relief. From a pharmaceutical standpoint, that can often mean the use of corticosteroids and, in many cases, clenbuterol (often sold under names such as Claire Gel, Broncopulmin, Airway Gel, Ventipulmin, Equipulmin, etc). While use of these medications may help relieve some clinical signs of asthma, they do not address the underlying causes of the condition and may also come with unintended health consequences. Unfortunately, these side effects are often overlooked, or simply not discussed.

Whilst clenbuterol may provide some initial relief in equine asthma, the use of this drug can contribute to a vicious cycle, potentially perpetuating the condition.

Clenbuterol has been demonstrated to deplete the amino acid taurine. Taurine plays a significant protective role in lung health by exerting powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and membrane-stabilising effects. It also helps to inhibit allergic responses, which can play a role in many cases of equine asthma. Reduced taurine levels may increase the severity of equine asthma and the likelihood of lung tissue damage as a result of ongoing airway changes. Taurine is also needed to promote healthy gut integrity and microflora: gut health is increasingly recognised as an important factor in respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Clenbuterol decreases levels of potassium and magnesium in the body—two key nutrients known to support respiratory health and reduce the severity of asthma. Potassium is essential for controlling airway smooth muscle tone and supporting respiratory muscle function.  Low potassium can increase airway reactivity and hamper breathing, further exacerbating clinical signs of asthma. Depleted potassium levels can also lead to cramping in susceptible horses. Magnesium acts as a bronchodilator (helping the airways relax) and helps reduce airway hyperactivity, spasms, and inflammation.

Long-term use of clenbuterol may also have negative impacts on immune function, further contributing to a self-perpetuating cycle of equine asthma.

An often overlooked side effect of clenbuterol is the influence it may have on temperament and behaviour in our horses. Clenbuterol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-2 adrenoceptor agonists, which work by mimicking the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline) in the body. This results in a stimulating effect, which may lead to changes in behaviour, including increased excitability, reactivity or nervousness in some horses.

Helping a horse at risk of, or diagnosed with asthma, starts with good management practices. Identifying and appropriately addressing the factors that contribute to the underlying pathophysiology of equine asthma, meeting the individual horse’s nutritional requirements (which often differ from basic nutrient requirements due to medication use), and the judicious use of suitable herbal medicines can significantly support respiratory health, allowing a horse to remain healthy and perform at its best. There is much that can be done for the horse diagnosed with asthma, using approaches that not only support airway health and performance, but also promote overall wellbeing. If your horse has been diagnosed with asthma, or you suspect respiratory issues may be affecting performance or comfort, a tailored approach can make a significant difference. Get in touch with Optim Equine to discuss a personalised plan to your support your horse’s health and performance.

At Optim Equine, we regularly work with horses affected by respiratory conditions…

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

However, the use of intra-articular steroids come with risks to our horses and ponies. Particularly those with insulin dysregulation, insulin resistance, equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) or those who are at risk of, or have previously had laminitis.

Intra-articular corticosteroids have been shown to increase blood glucose and insulin levels and increase the risk of laminitis, particularly in susceptible horses. The risk may be further increased in horses receiving high-grain or high-starch diets.

When giving our horses any medication or supplement, whether natural or pharmaceutical, both the potential risks and benefits should be taken into account.

For the horse with osteoarthritis or any other degenerative joint disease, diet, exercise (load) management, weight and body composition should all be taken into account. Overweight horses or those with insulin resistance may be at an increased likelihood of developing osteoarthritis due to higher levels of systemic inflammation associated with excess body fat. This highlights the need to be particularly mindful of the risk in these horses and ponies if the use of corticosteroid injections are being considered.

Many nutraceutical and herbal medicine supplements can safely and significantly help horses with osteoarthritis, when selected and used appropriately.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

The composition of our hose’s gut microbiota has a profound impact on their behaviour and health. This is mediated through the gut-brain-immune axis. Changes in the composition of their gut microbiota can influence neurotransmitter production and function. Neurotransmitters are the natural chemical messengers which have important roles influencing many processes in our horses. Temperament, behaviour, motor control, learning patterns and digestive function are all influenced by neurotransmitters. Gut microbial population also affects neuroinflammation (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord), which can further influence mood and behaviour. Excessive levels of neuroinflammation may worsen stress, anxiety, tension and irritation in our horses.

Many things can adversely affect our horse’s gut microbiota, which may contribute to dysfunction of the gut-brain-immune axis. Clinical signs, changes and conditions we may see in our horses when their gut-brain-immune axis has been disrupted include:

• Faecal water syndrome
• Gastric ulcers
• Colonic ulcers
• Failure to thrive
• Failure to put on/maintain weight
• Susceptibility to infections and/or recurrent, chronic infections
• Nervousness, erratic behaviour, shying, anxiety, irritability
• Equine metabolic syndrome
• Insulin resistance
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Colic
• Scours/diarrhoea
• Laminitis
• Osteoarthritis
• Equine Asthma Syndrome
• Recurrent skin conditions
• Poor recovery post exercise, training and/or competition
• Excessive muscle tension

In some horses, however, dysbiosis (unhealthy balance of the microbial community in the gut microbiota) may result in no obvious outward signs, yet their health is likely impacted under the surface, and this may become evident further down the track. Many of the signs associated with a dysfunctional gut-brain-immune axis health are non-specific, meaning they can often be dismissed or attributed to something else. Unfortunatel,y this means that often the underlying cause(s) of the condition or clinical signs can be overlooked in our horses.

Some of the factors which compromise GI health, and in turn influence immune health and behaviour include (but are certainly not limited to): insufficient dry matter (long-stem) fibre in the diet; large sized ‘hard feeds’ (ie concentrates and grains); large percentages of starch and/or sugar in the diet; abrupt changes in diet and/or pasture; the use of certain medications (including antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids and ulcer medications); viral and/or bacterial infections; high parasite burdens; nutritional insufficiencies, deficiencies and/or excesses (usually certain minerals, but sometimes particular vitamins); heavy metal toxicities; stress; pain; dehydration; high levels of inflammation in the body; extended travel; intense exercise.

Given the modern demands, management, feeding and medication use in horses, most horses will have compromises to their gut microbiota. The effects of these can be long-lasting, unless specific, targeted, supportive and corrective action is taken. This is crucial not only for their GI health, but in turn their immune health and behaviour, in addition to their overall health, performance and recovery.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Understanding pain in our horses

The experience of pain is unique to each individual horse and pony: in the way it presents, the intensity, frequency of the pain and how the horse or pony responds to treatment. In recent years, we have come a long way in better understanding the many different physical signs a horse or pony may display to indicate that they are in pain.

Pain seldom appears alone: it can impact a multitude of different aspects in a horse or pony. A horse or pony in pain can concurrently experience changes in behaviour or temperament: this may be one of the first indications which alerts us to the fact our horse or pony is experiencing pain. If the pain is new/acute in nature, these behavioural changes can appear totally out of character. If the pain is chronic/ongoing, the horse or pony may become withdrawn or ‘shut down’ in order to manage their pain. Poor performance, immune health challenges, digestive health issues and compromised fertility may all be associated with pain in our horses and ponies.

To effectively address and relieve pain in our horses and ponies, it is important to consider that pain can be multifaceted and complex. When we think of pain in our horses and ponies, we commonly think of pain which is a result of a direct physical cause. That is, pain that is associated with injury, lameness, poorly fitting tack or saddles, etc. This is what is referred to as ‘somatic pain’.

Yet pain can (and often is) so much more complex than this. Which in part, helps to explain why the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids doesn’t effectively resolve pain in many cases.

Different types of pain respond better to different treatments due to their varying mechanisms, mediators, impact on the brain and inflammatory pathways.

To provide the best pain relief for our horse or pony, an individual, targeted approach is essential. Read on to learn more about the different types of pain our horses and ponies can experience.  

Nociceptive Pain

Nociceptive pain is experienced due to ongoing activation of nociceptors (pain sensing neurones located within body organs and internal cavities). Nociceptive pain is caused by damage to body tissues as a result of trauma and/or inflammation. When we think of pain in our horses and ponies, nociceptive pain is generally the first type of pain that comes to mind.

Nociceptive pain serves as a protective response to injury or potential harm. In cases of chronic pain however, nociceptor activation can remain ongoing, even after healing of damaged tissues is complete and there is no further sign of damage/injury. Accurately identifying and understanding the causes and mechanisms behind this chronic pain in our horses and ponies can be incredibly difficult: an injury may be visibly healed (even on thorough imaging and diagnostic methods), yet the horse is still demonstrating signs of pain.

Nociceptive pain can be further divided into two main categories: somatic pain and visceral pain.

Somatic Pain

Somatic pain has a direct physical cause and arises from the musculoskeletal system (muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, connective tissues) and skin. Osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, hoof abscesses, cuts and wounds are all examples where a horse or pony may experience somatic pain. It is what many vets, body workers, farriers and other equine health care professionals are often looking for when trying to identify the source of pain. In order to help identify the pain, lameness exams, nerve blocks, imaging (radiographs, MRIs, PET scans, CTs, nuclear scintigraphy etc) may be used.

Yet sometimes our horses and ponies still clearly demonstrate they are in pain, even when these avenues have been exhausted and there seems to be no explainable cause for their pain. So why is this? Despite the best technology, we can’t always see structural issues, so the pain can indeed be somatic in nature, but despite our best efforts, we can’t physically see what is causing the pain. Another reason, which may be overlooked, is the pain they are experiencing may not be somatic pain (or not just somatic pain alone). 

The pain our horses or ponies may be experiencing in this case is likely one (or a combination of) any of the other following types of pain.

Visceral Pain

Visceral pain is pain which originates from internal organs of the body, including the stomach, intestines, liver and kidneys. It may arise due to distension, inflammation or lack of blood supply to internal organs. Colic is a common clinical sign of visceral pain in our horses and ponies. The chronic, inflammatory nature of inflammatory bowel disease may cause visceral pain in some horses and ponies. In many cases we may not be able to visually ‘see’ the source of pain using diagnostic methods, instead relying on history and assessment of clinical signs in the horse or pony. Identifying visceral pain can be even more challenging as it may be masked by other conditions. The discomfort a horse or pony experiences from visceral pain can vary from mild to intense.

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is what we commonly think of as ‘nerve pain’. It is caused by nerve damage or dysfunction, resulting in dysregulation of the transmission of nerve signals into the spinal cord. Many causes of neuropathic pain are often linked to excessive inflammation in both the peripheral and central nervous system. Inflammation however, is typically only one element of neuropathic pain. The pathophysiology of neuropathic pain is generally complex and multifactorial, which partly explains why the use of anti-inflammatories and/or rest may only provide minimal relief in many cases.

Central sensitisation

Central sensitisation is pain without identifiable nerve or tissue damage, which makes it challenging to diagnose. This type of pain is thought to result from persistent neuronal dysregulation. It may play an element in cases of neuropathic pain. Some types of neck and back pain without structural pathology may be examples of central sensitisation.

Inflammatory pain

Although somatic pain can definitely be a type of inflammatory pain, immune responses in our horses and ponies can also result in inflammatory pain. This may arise in cases of infection.

Referred pain

Referred pain is pain felt in a different location from the actual source. This form of pain can be challenging to diagnose. An example of referred pain may be highlighted by a horse or pony experiencing problems with its temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or teeth: in such cases, a horse or pony may have referred pain in the neck- with the neck appearing as if it is the source of pain itself.

Psychogenic Pain

Psychogenic pain is physical pain that is caused, increased or prolonged by emotional, mental or behavioural factors, without evidence of physical injury or illness. Psychogenic pain may not yet be commonly recognised as a clinical diagnosis in horses and ponies, but as we understand more about the role of stress, social isolation, anxiety, lack of freedom of movement, insufficient forage in the diet, boredom and frustration in the equine- the role of psychogenic pain should not be overlooked. From a clinical perspective, monitoring and/or observing signs such as heightened reactivity, increased heart rate and/or respiratory rate, stereotypies (wind sucking, cribbing, weaving, box/stall walking, paddock walking) may all be indicative of psychogenic pain.

So how can we help a horse or pony in pain?

In any case of a horse or pony experiencing pain, taking a thorough case history and conducting a comprehensive, holistic assessment gives us the best chance to understand the potential causes and contributing factors to their pain. It is important to note that in many cases, whilst clinical signs can be useful to help understand pain better in our horses and ponies, they are often non-specific.

Viewing, managing and treating pain from a holistic perspective gives us the best possible chance of helping our horses and ponies. We are fortunate that a wide range of judiciously employed nutraceuticals, herbal medicines, dietary and management strategies can significantly help horses and ponies who are experiencing pain. Within the scope of herbal medicine and nutraceuticals alone, we have multiple options in the choice of the herbs and nutrients which can be used to best help treat and manage different types of pain.

The treatment approach we take for specific types of pain should be different if we want the pain relief to be truly effective for our horses and ponies and to resolve the source(s) of the pain.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Corticosteroids (such as prednisolone and dexamethasone), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as phenylbutazone, firocoxib, flunixin), gastric ulcer medications and antibiotics all impact gastrointestinal (GI) ‘gut’ health through several different mechanisms. These may include: irritating the sensitive tissue which lines the digestive tracts of our horses and ponies, potentially causing gastric ulceration and/or bleeding; causing GI dysbiosis (adversely impacting the delicate microflora populations within our horses’ and ponies’ GI tracts); and altering nutrient absorption and metabolism (the way our horses and ponies digest, utilise and excrete nutrients). 

Good gut health is central to the overall health and wellbeing in our horses. We know that beyond digestive health, gut health in our horses and ponies significantly influences: immune health; bone, cartilage and joint health; respiratory/airway health; metabolic health; reproductive health/fertility; hoof health; laminitis risk; and even behaviour and motor patterns in our horses.

These are just some of the reasons why it is important to use any medications judiciously- even ones that are routinely employed in many situations. In the case that these medications are required, strategic nutritional supplementation and in many cases, appropriately prescribed herbal medicines can help to address some of the nutrient depletions and side effects caused by these medications. Additionally they can help to return the digestive system to the best possible state of health.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Salt (sodium chloride) is absolutely essential for our horses and ponies. Salt helps to promote: thirst response (so our equines remain adequately hydrated); fluid balance; healthy blood pressure; and normal muscle and nerve function; and is needed for healthy digestion and gastrointestinal (GI) function.

Salt toxicity is extremely rare in horses, provided they have access to unlimited clean water. 

Research conducted in other animal species and humans has shown that excessive intakes of salt, however, can cause dysbiosis (adverse changes in GI microflora). 

Although currently there is no equine specific research on the topic, it does pose the question ‘can we give our horses too much salt?’  

Whilst this is unlikely, it is possible: an example may be where multiple and/or high dose electrolyte supplements are used, particularly in relatively inactive horses and/or those who don’t sweat much.

In clinical practice, I rarely see horses who have excessively high salt intakes: it is very common however, that I see horses who do not receive sufficient salt in their diets.

Furthermore, horses who are receiving ulcer medications (those containing omeprazole, in either oral or injectable form) can have changes in sodium chloride levels. These drugs interfere with salt absorption- meaning our horses aren’t able to utilise all the salt we are feeding them. This can have repercussions in terms of both health and performance.

Ensuring our horses receive adequate salt relative to their individual requirements and taking into account factors such as medication use is crucial for their wellbeing and performance.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Commonly, the first thing a trainer or owner does is request ‘bloods’ (a full blood count) be taken from the horse. In many cases, a full blood count may yield no significant abnormalities. That however, doesn’t guarantee that a horse is healthy. Nor that the horse isn’t suffering from the lingering consequences of viral infection.

Acute viral pathogens can survive in their latent (inactive) forms driving chronic, and persistent poor performance, impaired recovery and symptoms. This is often not reflected in pathology (blood test) results. Viral infections progress in the body in a multistep process. There is very little that can be done from a pharmaceutical (standard medication) perspective to help a horse recover from post-viral illness.

Fortunately, there are many nutritional supplements and herbal medicines which when employed appropriately, can aid in our horses’ recovery from viral illness. Tailored treatment can aid in promoting optimal health in our horses and help them return to their full athletic potential. Treatment is often targeted at aiding different components of the immune system, whilst concurrently reducing inflammation and supporting antioxidant status.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

But does this actually help our horses with their recovery? And what are the potential downsides to such practices?

Unlike muscles, blood flow to tendons and ligaments is actually poor. Yet blood flow to tendons and ligaments is needed to provide nutrients and specialised cells to these structures, allowing for connective tissue remodelling that naturally occurs in response to training and exercise. This is an important part of adaptation and how tendons and ligaments become stronger. Blood flow is also a key component which helps injured tendons or ligaments heal, and for this reason, can partially explain why injured tendons and ligaments can take so long to heal.

Anything that further hinders this already poor blood flow compromises recovery and repair. The application of ice and cooling boots causes localised vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels). This in turn further reduces already low blood flow to the areas that have been iced. 

Icing may also lead to a decrease in the production of important hormones which help to repair damaged tissue.

Whilst icing in the initial stages of some acute injuries can be helpful (in order to reduce swelling and excessive inflammation)- using it ‘proactively’ or as a form of recovery may do more harm than good.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

If we choose to longe our horses or ponies, it’s important to consider how this form of exercise impacts their joint health.

When a horse is exercised on a circle, they push off with their outside limbs and catch the force of that push with their inside limbs. The joints in a horse’s lower limbs (the fetlock, pastern and coffin joints) have evolved to move in only a front-to-back plane. When exercising a horse, it is natural for their foot to land flat on the ground. For this to occur when they are being exercised on a circle, compression occurs in the medial (inside) aspects of the joint and extra tension is placed on the lateral (outside) of the joint. This causes uneven loading through the joint. The compression on the medial side of the joint impacts articular cartilage; the strain on the outside of the joint puts more tension and ‘wear and tear’ on the ligaments of the outside limbs.

If longeing is performed regularly, it may increase the risk of chronic injury from the stress of the repetitive uneven loading. If we think of this in a more holistic nature, musculoskeletal structures throughout the whole body must compensate for this uneven loading: potentially having a significant impact on a horse’s biomechanics. Even if we only longe our horses or ponies infrequently, there’s still the risk of injury. This is more likely to occur when a horse isn’t properly controlled when being longed (think of a young horse, or a ‘fresh’ horse who we are aiming to ‘calm’ down with longeing).

The negative impacts of longeing can affect horses of all ages. Young horses tend to naturally have less strength in bones and ligaments, potentially increasing their risk of injury from longeing. Cartilage is also susceptible to damage. Further injury can occur in young horses with open growth plates: excessive longeing can potentially cause growth plate damage. This may affect a horse’s long-term conformation and limb alignment.

Whilst older horses are likely to have stronger bones and ligaments from more exercise, they are also susceptible to negative effects from longeing.  Osteoarthritic changes to joints, decreased collagen production, accumulated micro tears and loss of elastic properties in ligaments may increase their risk of injury. 

If we choose to longe our horses and ponies there are a few key considerations to help reduce the potential negative impacts of this form of exercise:

• Avoid longeing young horses, particularly those with open growth plates. These horses are in developmental stages where cartilage may be more susceptible to uneven loading.
• Longe at lower speeds: this helps our horses and ponies to distribute weight more evenly through their joints.
• Of all the gaits, trotting is likely to load the limbs in the most balanced fashion and promote the most even loading.
• Exercise on large circles. Forces on the joint are magnified when working on small circles.
• Only ever longe a horse when they are under control.
• Where possible, longe in a large round pen where the footing is banked. It allows the hooves to have a flatter interaction with the ground.
• Ensure the horse is engaging its body correctly and moving soundly.
• Where possible choose other forms of exercise to work your horse.

When it comes to joint health in our horses and ponies, sometimes we can be quick to want to add a joint supplement to their regime; put them on a IM joint medication and/or medicate their joints, I recommend reading Bisphosphonates (Tildren & Osphos): Understanding how they work and their role in bone health; and Joint Injections in the Horse- Important Considerations. Before doing any of this, there are several incredibly valuable aspects to stop and consider if we want to promote soundness and longevity in our horses. How do we exercise our horses?Is their overall diet one that supports bone, cartilage and joint health, whilst meeting their key nutrient requirements and reduces inflammation? Are our horses on a regular trimming/shoeing schedule which takes into account their biomechanics, conformation and workload? Addressing these factors as part of an holistic approach can help to promote sound, healthy horses and promote the best joint health possible.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

An important thing to keep in mind, however, is to gradually increase the workload of our horses and ponies. Understandably, many horses are turned out or exercised only very lightly or infrequently during the colder, wetter months and short daylight hours. 

Most of us appreciate that during this time, our horses lose both physical and aerobic fitness. Less often, we stop to consider that during this time off or reduced workload, they lose important conditioning of muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones. If we suddenly increase their workload or take them to competitions on weekends where we ride them hard, we can significantly increase their risk of injury. Bones, ligaments and tendons and to a certain degree muscles need regular loading to cope with impact forces and demands of movements. 

To help musculoskeletal structures of the body adapt to exercise and be ready for high-level performance or demanding exercise, it is incredibly important to strategically and incrementally increase exercise duration, intensity, frequency and overall load.

I don’t think that it is coincidental that clinically I tend to see a much higher percentage of lameness/soreness cases during the summer months compared to other times of the year. Indeed, lameness is one of the primary causes of missed training and competition in performance horses.

Often with better weather, more time and the excitement of competitions, horses are suddenly brought into full work after having months off or being just ridden occasionally. Add to this the fact that the ground is generally much harder in the summer months due to weather conditions (although this isn’t always true!)- which places extra stress on both bones and joints.

Another consideration worth keeping in mind: it is easy for a horse to go mentally sour if we expect them to suddenly go from very little work to a heavy workload or competing. When they aren’t properly conditioned, the actual work they do feels harder due to a lack of fitness. They are also more likely to feel stiffness and soreness after work- and expecting them to perform when they aren’t properly recovered is tough on them. A similar analogy that may be useful to think of is if we suddenly go from not exercising at all to running a marathon every day. We’d be stiff, sore, tired, cranky and reluctant to want to exercise at all. In such cases, it can be tempting to ‘bute’ our horses (ie give them non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as phenylbutazone, ‘PBZ’, Flunix, Firocoxib or similar), yet research shows that the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories actually hampers recovery from exercise. These drugs interfere with the body’s natural processes to repair micro damage to muscle, tendon, ligament and bone tissue.

One last thing to keep in mind relates specifically to older horses and ponies. For many of our schoolmasters and really experienced horses out there- we can ‘get away’ with pulling them out of the paddock just before a competition, and they can still be incredibly reliable and deliver outstanding results. They are well-educated and generally need very little practice to perform well. 

Yet, if any horse or pony needs a gradual return to an increased workload it is the older horse and pony. Issues such as osteoarthritis, ‘wear and tear’ with old age, metabolic and hormonal changes and increased recovery time, mean these horses generally need to be brought back into full work slower and with special consideration.

If you’re planning on a summer full of fun riding- whether that be simply for pleasure and/or competing, now is the time to plan and implement a gradual return to work for your horse. It can significantly help to reduce injury risk, as well as make riding a far more enjoyable experience for both you and your horse.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

In recent years, much attention has been given to grain-free feeds. Low-GI, low starch, ‘calming’ and low sugar feeds also get plenty of airtime. All the terms can relate to different aspects of the feed, but in the majority of cases, it is clever marketing and doesn’t ensure that the feed we are purchasing is necessarily suitable or safe for our horses and ponies.

Clever marketing and loopholes in claims that can be made on feed packages can become very confusing. Feeds can claim to be ‘grain free’, a ‘calm performing feed’ or low GI, yet in some cases the predominant ingredients in the feed may be made from grain! If we take a look at an ingredients list (remembering that ingredients are ordered in descending order of the percentage they make up of the feed) grain may be present in the form of millmix, millrun, pollard, cereal by-products, wheat middlings to name a few! Other products may be truly grain-free but contain large amounts of molasses and other high-calorie oils and ingredients to bind the feed together and/or make it more palatable. In either case, for many horses with metabolic issues, these feeds are likely to not be suitable. Generally ‘grain-free’ refers to the fact that no whole grains are present, yet many of these feeds contain processed grain ingredients- which certainly doesn’t make them grain-free! Along the same lines, there are feeds widely available in Australia that are advertised as suitable for horses with ‘grain intolerance’ which have barley or millrun as the predominant ingredient in the feed!

There are many reasons why it may be preferable to feed a horse or pony a truly grain-free diet, particularly a diet low in starch and sugars. For many equines, they don’t need the calories/energy provided by such grains and concentrated feeds, and in the case of horses with equine metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and many cases of laminitis and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) (formerly known as ‘Cushings’), steering clear of grain is generally a good idea.  For other horses with higher calorie needs, the incomplete digestion of grain products and the resulting fermentation of starch and sugars in the hindgut can increase the risk and/or severity of gastric and colonic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, ’tying up’, developmental orthopaedic diseases (such as OCDs and bone cysts), immune dysfunction, inflammatory conditions and behavioural issues.

If a horse needs to be on a grain-free diet, and more specifically a low starch and sugar diet, we need to pay particular attention to all the ingredients contained in a feed, as well as the feed’s nutritional analysis- not just the marketing claims! We also need to remember that a horse’s or pony’s ‘hard feed’ should only make up a small percentage of its diet. We need to consider the role which pasture and hay play in each equine’s intake: from the perspective of calories, starch and sugar. Additionally remember that for multiple health reasons, long-stem fibre (such as that found in hay) should form the basis of their diets. To read more on the importance of fibre and hay, see the articles Fibre, Chewing and Gastrointestinal Health; Why Basics Matter: The Importance of Chewing; Hay, Stomach (Gastric) & Hindgut (Colonic) Ulcers; and Grass, Hay, Fibre and Short Chain Fatty Acids. 

What and how we feed our horses and ponies plays a crucial role in their overall health. In many cases, we can mitigate the risk of severe health conditions, whilst also ensuring that we are giving our equines everything they need to perform at their best and be in the best of health. Clever marketing and loopholes in regulations governing feed claims can make it both challenging and confusing to feed your horse or pony in a way that is best for each individual equine. Seeking independent advice from suitably qualified and experienced nutritionists and equine health practitioners is one of the best investments you can make in your horses’ health and performance. Prefer listening to podcasts or watching webinars to learn more about equine nutrition, gut health, ulcers, immune health and other horse health conditions? Be sure to visit our Media page for plenty of informative recordings.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Salt is a mineral which remains an important part of the diets of our equines year-round, yet is easily overlooked. Most fortified feeds on the market don’t contain enough salt to meet the needs of our horses and ponies. If we’re not actively providing salt to our equines, then they’re likely falling well short of their requirements.

Salt is an electrolyte which helps to maintain fluid balance and hydration. It is continually lost through saliva, urine and sweat, so, therefore, must be provided in the diet to be replenished. Horses need salt on a daily basis, even when they’re not visibly sweating.

Salt is needed for proper functioning of the nervous system, digestion, balancing pH levels in the blood and helping muscles to function correctly.

Sodium also stimulates the thirst response in our horses and ponies. Without adequate salt in their diet, many equines will not drink enough water. This is one of the many important factors to consider in horses who have suffered from spasmodic or impaction colic, where gastrointestinal (GI) motility and/or dehydration play a role.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

For the owner or rider considering taking on an OTTB, careful thought and planning should go into ensuring that the transition from the life of a racehorse to the next phase of the horse’s career is as smooth as possible. Some of the biggest considerations need to be given to changes in the horse’s diet, routine and optimising health parameters. Equipping yourself with knowledge and enlisting the help of suitably qualified professionals can help to realise your horse’s full potential.

Goals and Capabilities as a Rider/Handler

Before even inspecting an OTTB for potential purchase, clearly know what you are wanting in your new horse and your capabilities as a rider. Are you looking for a future show hack with impeccable conformation and looks? Are you looking for a pony club mount that needs to be calm and versatile? Are you looking for a horse with the potential to be a top-class eventer, thereby needing to be very sound, athletic and able to withstand high levels of training? Are you looking to get a cheap yet athletic horse to re-educate and sell on? Knowing the answers to these questions will quickly help to narrow down the horses you inspect for potential purchase and look to undertake a pre-purchase veterinary examination. By clearly knowing your goals, you can save yourself a lot of time and money and are far more likely to choose the most suitable horse.

When taking on an OTTB (particularly one that has come straight from a racing stable environment), honestly assessing your capabilities as a rider is critical. Are you confident and competent enough to safely and effectively manage and deal with an anxious, highly geared horse (whose temperament may or may not change significantly whilst in your care)? Or are you better suited to taking on a more relaxed OTTB or even one that has been off the track for some time and has spent time being re-educated with a different owner? One of the many beauties of OTTBs is that there are so many to choose from and at many different life and career stages- you are bound to find one that suits you perfectly! Be patient and choose wisely.

Vet Check

One of the first things to consider (and often most overlooked) when purchasing an OTTB is getting a thorough vet examination prior to purchase. Musculoskeletal soundness and airway health are two of the most significant considerations. Just like human athletes, racehorses’ bodies are put under strenuous physical demands, with the potential to develop injuries. Due to the hard galloping done by many young horses in training, considerable stress is put on bones, tendons and ligaments. This can lead to soundness issues. A thorough vet examination can help to identify previous injuries or any potential issues which may influence the ability of the horse to be suitable for its intended next career. On radiographic screening (x-ray), many racehorses will have some degree of osteoarthritic changes in their joints. With planning, sound dietary practices and the strategic use of appropriate supplements and management interventions, many of these conditions can be well managed. Furthermore, the fact that many OTTBs transition into their next careers at a relatively young age is advantageous. From a physiological perspective, when given suitable nutrition and support, their body is better able to repair and regenerate than an older horse. Referring back to your goals and what you intend to do with your OTTB is an important consideration here. A past injury in a racehorse which may prevent it from high-level eventing may pose no issues for a horse intended for general pleasure riding.

Suboptimal hoof health is a common finding in the newly transitioning OTTB. This is often due to a combination of poor gastrointestinal (GIT) health (which influences nutrient absorption and the production of essential vitamins such as biotin needed for sound, healthy hooves). For more information on the role of GIT in overall health and the role of nutrition in hoof health see articles: Fibre, Chewing and Gastrointestinal Health; Ulcers in Horses: The importance of understanding how medications work; Hay, Stomach (Gastric) & Hindgut (Colonic) Ulcers; and Beyond Biotin: Optimising Horse Hoof Health.

Routinely being shod in race plates can also compound the problem of poor hoof structure and health. Many racehorses have contracted hooves with under-run heels, long toes and thin soles. Encouragingly, hoof health is an aspect that can readily be turned around in a period of around 8-12 months with appropriate dietary changes and good farriery. Including radiographs of the hooves as part of the pre-purchase examination may be a valuable investment in some horses: x-rays can help to demonstrate what is going on in the hoof and can aid the proactive farrier to trim, shoe and manage the hoof appropriately.

It is important to remember that often racehorses in training will initially go footsore when their shoes are removed and they are left barefoot during a spell. This is especially true of the front feet. Some farriers and owners will choose to keep their horses in shoes. In many cases however, it is advisable for the spelling horse to have an extended period of time being unshod: this helps to positively influence hoof shape and integrity and aids in proper circulation and blood flow to the hooves. Feeding the horse a diet which reduces inflammation, using nutritional supplements (nutraceuticals) and herbal medicine under qualified supervision, and potentially easing the transition to barefoot through the use of padded, removable boots are all beneficial strategies.

Another aspect of the pre-purchase examination should also include an upper airway scope. Respiratory conditions which may be evident when assessing an OTTB include a history of exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH, more commonly known as bleeding), airway inflammatory disease, and laryngeal hemiplegia (roaring). The first two can generally be well managed with appropriate feeding and supplementation practices and adopting strategies to minimise the inhalation of air particulate matter and dust.

History

Where possible, finding out as much history about the horse as possible can help to make a smooth transition to the next phase of its career. For a horse coming straight off the track, contact with the trainer and/or stable manager can help provide you with valuable information as to any health or injury concerns with the horse, the dates it was last vaccinated and drenched (de-wormed), any medications and/or supplements it may have been receiving, its current diet and any quirks, habits or temperament considerations to take into account. Having said this, it is also important to remember that when a horse is put in a new environment, some of the aforementioned things may change! For example, a horse that was previously often irritable can become much calmer with a more natural diet and living environment. Similarly, horses which may have been very picky eaters whilst in training often become very good eaters once their GIT health has improved and the stress of the training environment has been removed.

Diet

The majority of diets fed to thoroughbreds in training are not conducive to optimal GIT health and function. Practices vary between trainers and stables, but most often, horses in training are fed two or three large grain and/or concentrate-based meals per day. Grass and/or lucerne hay are often provided in limited amounts. Many trainers do not have the luxury of turning horses out to graze. This puts the horse’s digestive system under strain and increases the likelihood of many health issues including ulceration throughout the GIT (gastric and colonic ulcers), colic, disturbances in the GIT microflora (bacterial balance of the digestive system), hindgut acidosis, suboptimal ability to utilise feed properly and nutritional deficiencies/insufficiencies. The addition of high cortisol levels produced by the horse in response to stress and high-intensity exercise further compromises GIT health and digestive function. To read more about the contributors and effects of stress in our horses see: Stress in Horses: Why it isn’t always obvious.

Horses, by nature, are designed to be constantly moving about and grazing high-fibre roughage. This is important as the stomach of the horse is relatively small in volume and has little capacity to expand. As a result, small amounts of feed which are consumed often are digested much better than the large volume feeds given a couple of times per day. The constant grazing a horse does in its natural environment also ensures that there is a physical buffer in the stomach to protect against the breakdown action of hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes. These substances are constantly produced in the horse and are essential for proper digestion, as well as immune function. To read more, visit: Ulcers in Horses: The importance of understanding how medications work. Grazing and chewing also stimulate the production of saliva. Saliva serves many important functions in the horse, including releasing bicarbonate ions into the stomach (which also protects the stomach lining, another smart natural mechanism of the horse to protect against ulcers). To learn more about the benefits of grazing, visit: Why Basics Matter: The Importance of Chewing.

Sudden changes in feeding practices (even those that are beneficial to the horse) can increase the risk of colic and other complications. This is thought to be largely attributed to rapid changes in GIT microflora in response to the feed offered. Finding out the horse’s current diet prior to purchasing can help to make smooth transitions to a more fibre-rich feed, whilst ensuring the gut microflora change at an appropriate rate. It is advisable to make the transition of feeds gradual (over a period of 12-14 days) to help best facilitate this.

Whilst horses who come directly out of training will have been maintained on high-energy rations, their relative energy needs during their initial transition into an OTTB will be much lower. Furthermore, if GIT health is optimised as part of their transition (through feeding, management practices and appropriate supplementation), they will be better able to use fibre rich feeds (ie pasture and hay) as energy sources. This is made possible through bacterial fermentation in the hind gut (helpful microbes in the large intestine break fibre down into short-chain/volatile fatty acids, a high source of energy for the horse). It is important to remember that whilst a horse’s actual energy needs may be much lower than when they were in training, their need for specific minerals, vitamins and protein may remain relatively high. Without the excess demands of training and racing the body is in a prime position to help address and heal any niggling injuries, musculoskeletal damage or immune health challenges. To find out more about nutrient requirements and the role of protein for horses visit Nutrient Requirements for Horses: Fortified Feeds and the need for Supplementation; The Importance of Protein. These are commonplace in any athlete involved in demanding sports. To facilitate optimal healing and health, is essential to ensure that the OTTB receives at a minimum the recommended dietary intake of minerals and vitamins, in addition to good quality protein sources. A good quality balancer feed or supplement, in the addition to sufficient pasture, hay and lucerne hay (where appropriate) will help to meet these needs.

Some people find challenges in putting condition on their OTTB and/or the horse being picky with their feed. This is most often due to irritation of GIT, use of ulcer medications and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) such as ‘bute’ (PBZ), and the diet racehorses are commonly maintained on,. These factors can all significantly compromise gut integrity and health. Add to this the stress of a new environment and the change in the horse’s routine and it can take a little time for the horse to adjust. Whilst the prescription of appropriate nutritional and herbal supplementation can help immensely in these cases, basic management practices including turning the horse out to graze, the provision of sufficient roughage (hay, pasture), and keeping the OTTB  with a sensible paddock mate are all effective starting points owners are encouraged to implement. One of the most common mistakes that can be made when wanting to put weight on a newly acquired OTTB is to continually increase the ration of grain or high-energy concentrate feed, without the provision of sufficient roughage and fibre. This contributes to additional compromises in the integrity of the GIT lining and further shifting the hindgut microflora away from that which promotes the best utilisation of feed and energy. As a result, the cycle of struggling to gain weight is perpetuated, and often leads to frustration as the horse seems to take an extended period of time to ‘let down’ and gain condition. To read more about horse’s who struggle to put on condition, visit the article: HELP! My horse won’t put on body condition.

Down Time

One of the best things you can do as an owner of a newly transitioning OTTB is give it some much needed ‘down time’. The majority of racing stable environments are far removed from what is a natural for the horse. Like humans constantly under work deadlines, family demands and everyday pressures, horses too routinely experience stress. This stress is manifested in many forms, primarily driven by changes in levels of the stress hormone cortisol (which can lead to reduced immune function, high levels of inflammation, changes in temperament and behaviour, and reduced capacity to recover). Additionally, the constant physical demands of training and racing can lead to ongoing musculoskeletal ‘niggles’- aches, pains and minor injuries. A period of 4-8 weeks, turned out in the paddock, fed a fibre-rich diet, and not in the demands of work or being fussed with is one of the most beneficial things you can do to help the newly transitioned OTTB. It helps the horse to mentally wind-down, aids in the restoration of GIT health, gives any small niggles the chance to heal, and lets the horse settle into a new environment and freshen up. Just like humans, horses too need holidays. Simply giving them time out before asking new demands from them in their new career, can help them get off to the best start. 

Temperament

A significant (and often highly variable and unpredictable) consideration in the OTTB is temperament. This can be a challenge when acquiring a new horse, as it is difficult to know exactly how much is ingrained behaviour and the horse’s natural tendency, compared to how much it is a result of the environment the horse has been in, the feeding practices and GIT health. An important consideration to note is that 70-80% of the neurotransmitters (the chemicals which influence mood, temperament, behaviour and learning) are produced in the GIT. There are clear links between GIT health and levels of anxiety, mood changes and behaviour. This is useful to take into account: an OTTB which has struggled with compromised gut health in training and may be nervous, edgy or readily spook can change significantly when GIT health is addressed. A combination of appropriate supplementation and feeding, combined with appropriate ‘down time’ can really significantly impact the behaviour of an OTTB for the better. It routinely plays a role in why many horses that are temperamental/nervy/anxious in training become more relaxed away from the stable environment. Keep in mind too, that the actual environment the horse is kept in also plays an important role.

Monitoring and Progress

From a basic health standpoint, once the new OTTB has arrived and settled, it is wise to measure temperature, respiratory and heart rates at roughly the same time each day for a week to establish what is ‘normal’ for your horse. Record these and keep on hand (using the notes section on your mobile phone can be great, otherwise written on a whiteboard or somewhere easily accessible). This information is incredibly helpful in the instance that your horse may become unwell: you know what is ‘normal’ and healthy for your horse, helping to implement appropriate strategies in a timely fashion.

Taking photos of your horse from the side and back (safely), on a fortnightly or monthly basis is a simple tool to monitor body composition changes and progress. The same thing can be done with their hooves front and side-on, in addition to picking the hoof up and taking pictures of the sole and frog. It can be incredibly rewarding to look back over a 4-6 week period and notice the subtle improvement in body condition. Horses can make significant progress in gradual increments, which may be missed when you are seeing the horse on a daily basis. By having photo evidence on hand, you are able to make a more objective assessment. Keep in mind that changes in hoof shape and quality will be much slower to notice: front hooves take a full 8-12 months to grow from the coronary band to the toe.

The majority of horses in training are maintained on a routine drenching (deworming) schedule. Given our current state of understanding in relation to resistance to worming products, it makes sense to adopt a strategic drenching approach. In order to implement this safely and effectively, taking routine faecal samples to be sent off for testing are encouraged. Doing this at the commencement of ownership can help to provide guidance to the most effective drenching requirements of your horse. For more information on drenching/deworming visit the article Drenching/Deworming with Panacur.

Conclusion

Like most worthwhile things in life, effectively transitioning a racehorse to an accomplished OTTB takes time and patience! Knowing your capabilities as a rider and having clear goals as to what you want to achieve with your new mount are important starting points. Enlisting the expertise of suitably qualified professionals and equipping yourself with the knowledge of best practices can help make for a smooth and rewarding journey. Choosing an OTTB can make for one of the most gratifying experiences as a horse owner and rider. Careful consideration, planning and attention to detail can ensure you give your horse every chance to excel in its new phase of life.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

The horse that fails to thrive can be one of the most frustrating challenges for owners, trainers, breeders and riders. The horse who no matter how much you feed it, how many times you drench (worm) it, how long it stays on medications for gastric ulcers or how many supplements you add to its feed- it still fails to put on significant weight, looks lacklustre and just doesn’t thrive like it should. Not to mention costing you an absolute fortune to keep! It’s common (and reasonable) to think that the more you feed the horse (particularly high energy grains and/or concentrates) the more weight and body condition it should gain. If a horse consumes excess calories (energy intake) relative to energy expenditure (calories out) then we would expect weight gain to occur.  And whilst the energy equation is an important consideration in such horses, if it was the sole reason in all cases, then horses that fail to thrive would be in the minority. The number of clinical cases where the primary reason for the owner contacting me is to help their horse gain weight suggests that this certainly is a common complaint. So why does it occur and what can we do to help these horses put on condition and thrive?

Potential contributors to failing to put on weight/condition

Like many health challenges and conditions in our equines, there are multiple factors which can contribute to failure to put on weight. Generally, it comes down to a combination of factors, not just one single reason. In the absence of a serious health condition in our horses, which should be ruled out by a thorough case history and veterinary diagnostics if indicated, the below are the most common reasons I see in clinical practice contributing to horses failing to thrive:

• Poor gastrointestinal (GI) health
• Insufficient fibre (particularly long-stem fibre in the diet)
• The volume of ‘individual hard feeds’ (ie grains and concentrates) too large per feed
• Horses being fed the wrong ‘type’ of feed
• Nutritional insufficiencies/deficiencies and imbalances (largely minerals and sometimes protein) which influence metabolic function (for example thyroid function)
• Side effects of certain medications (such as antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids)
• The use of gastric ulcer medications
• High stress levels in the horse
• High levels of pain in the horse
• High levels of inflammation in the horse
• Poor dental health
• High parasite load
• Inappropriate/insufficient exercise stimulus
• Windsucking/Cribbing

Poor Gastrointestinal Health

This is by far the most significant contributing factor relating to failing to put on/maintain weight in clinical cases I see. Poor gastrointestinal health can relate to compromised integrity of the cells lining the GI tract (gastric mucosa), imbalances in the microflora (the population of microbes, largely bacteria) of the GI tract and inflammation of the GI tract. These issues generally occur together. Gastric and/or colonic ulcers are also relevant in many cases, as a result of changes in the aforementioned factors. Many things can contribute to poor GI health (such as insufficient long-stem fibre in the diet, the use of certain medications- including ulcer medications, stress, travel, dehydration, just to name a few). To read more on these topics see articles:Hay, Stomach (Gastric) & Hindgut (Colonic) Ulcers; Hindgut (Colonic) Ulcers in Horses and Ponies; Inflammation & Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories in Horses; Ulcers in Horses: The importance of understanding how medications work; Ulcer Medications: What Nobody Tells You and What You Need To Know; Fibre, Chewing and Gastrointestinal Health.

Insufficient Fibre

Sufficient dietary fibre is crucial in the diet of our horses’ and ponies’. In addition to promoting good GI health (see paragraph and articles above), fibre also serves as an important energy source in our horses. It’s easy to think that a horse who needs more condition needs more calories (the relative energy content of fibrous feeds such as hay is much lower compared to grains and most concentrates). Yet in addition to promoting healthy GI microflora, fibre serves as an important energy source for these microbes. They ferment the fibre to produce short chain fatty acids (SCFA) also known as volatile fatty acids (VFA). These fatty acids are a valuable ‘cool’ energy source for our horses, in addition to producing important anti-inflammatory compounds and promoting and maintaining a healthy GI tract. If we don’t feed our horses sufficient fibre, the lose out on these benefits. We can’t successfully ‘out-supplement’ insufficient fibre in our horse’s diets!

Volume (size) of ‘hard’ feeds

Horses have very small stomachs relative to the size of the animal, accounting for only 10% of the volume of the digestive system. Our horses are designed to be constantly ‘grazing’, which allows optimal digestive function. When our horses are fed large meals, which require relatively little chewing (such as grains and concentrates) the food passes through their stomach quickly. This results in the feed entering the small intestine largely undigested. Consequently, the horse isn’t able to extract the energy and nutrients from the feed properly, and the undigested feed enters the hind-gut, where it ferments and causes changes in the pH and microflora population. Whilst fibre passes largely undigested into the hindgut and is naturally fermented here (and provides significant benefits because of this), no other feed should be fermented in the hindgut. In a mature horse, individual meal sizes should be no more than 2.3kg (5 pounds) in volume.

Horses being fed the wrong ‘type’ of feed

Feeding horses a commercial pelleted or mixed concentrate feed can be an efficient way to help meet nutrient requirements. However, not all pelleted or commercially manufactured feeds are created equally. They vary vastly in ingredients contained, nutrient and energy content. Feeds on the market range from low calorie mineral balancers to high energy concentrates. Feeding a low calorie balancer (even in large quantities) won’t significantly contribute to energy intake in our horses. Hence, selecting an appropriate feed is really important to help the horse failing to thrive.

Feeding large amounts of hard-to digest grains or concentrates is also a common occurrence in the horse failing to thrive. On paper it can make logical sense to feed the lightly conditioned horse plenty of grains as they are generally high in calories. Yet these grains aren’t always readily digested, and feed that isn’t digested properly won’t help to condition our horses well. For example corn (even cracked/rolled corn), despite being relatively high in starch and calories has very poor digestibility. This means our horses are not able to efficiently utilise the calories in it, in addition to it also adversely effecting GI microflora, compounding the whole problem. Remember that many high calorie concentrate/manufactured feeds contain large amounts of grains.

Nutritional insufficiencies, deficiencies and imbalances

In addition to sufficient energy (calories), our horses need protein (made up of amino acids), fats, vitamins and minerals to serve multiple different functions in the body. Sufficient protein is needed to aid in muscle hypertrophy (growth) thus plays an important structural role in conditioning horses. Additionally, the amino acids found in protein are needed for the production and activity of digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes help our horses to properly break down their feed, allowing for the absorption of energy and nutrients. Along with fats, vitamins and minerals, protein also plays key roles in supporting metabolic function and the production of key hormones needed to promote healthy growth in our horses. Insufficiencies or relative imbalances in these key nutrients can both directly and indirectly affect a horse’s ability to put on body condition.

Side effects of certain medications

Particular medications commonly used in our horses have the ability to impact their body condition. Antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as phenylbutazone (bute) and flunixin (Banamine), and corticosteroids all impact a horse’s GI microflora and the integrity of their stomach lining. Lesser considered medications include omeprazole and ranitidine (the key active ingredients in most ulcer medications), which interfere with a horse’s ability to properly digest and absorb their feed, and also impact their GI microflora. Other medications such as diuretics (Furosemide/Lasix) influence the absorption, metabolism and/or excretion of key nutrients needed for healthy metabolic function and conditioning in a horse. Medications such as Clenbuterol (Airway Gel, Claire Gel) and synthetic thyroid hormone (L-Thyro) directly influence metabolic rate in a horse, commonly resulting in weight loss or inability to put on sufficient condition.

The use of gastric ulcer medications

It can seem quite ironic- medications commonly used to help aid in healing of gastric ulcers can actually compound the challenge of gaining condition in the poor doer. Gastric ulcer medications work by shutting down the production of hydrochloric acid. Yet without adequate hydrochloric acid our horses can’t properly digest, absorb and metabolise their feed and nutrients in it. As a result, feed passes largely undigested in to the hindgut, adversely impacting GI microflora. To learn more about the actions of ulcer medications, visit the articles: Ulcers in Horses: The importance of understanding how medications work; Ulcer Medications: What Nobody Tells You and What You Need To Know

High stress levels and/or high levels of pain

High and/or continued levels of stress and/or pain in our horses results in changes in the production of the hormone cortisol and chemicals which promote inflammation in the body. This in turn commonly results in the breakdown of muscle tissue, leading to difficulty putting on/maintaining condition- largely lean muscle mass (the kind of condition we want on our horses). Changes in GI blood flow and microflora balance also commonly occur as a result of stress, further impacting digestion. Additionally gastric and/or colonic ulcers, which frequently develop as a result of chronic stress, can further compound the problem. To read more on the systemic effects of injury and pain, see the article: Injury and Pain in our Horses and Ponies

High Levels of inflammation

Long-term (chronic) inflammation in horses reduces the synthesis of muscle protein. It also increases the rate at which muscle proteins break down. Special types of molecules called inflammatory cytokines, which are  involved in cell signalling during inflammation, trigger the release of cortisol and particular neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the body). The combination of cortisol and these neurotransmitters disrupt cellular metabolism and alter a horse’s metabolic rate, which can heighten the breakdown of muscle tissue.

Poor dental health

Dental health can influence a horse’s ability to put on and/or maintain body condition in several ways. Sharp edges on teeth, loosened teeth, tooth infections, tooth loss or uneven wear of teeth can contribute to pain and compromised ability to chew feed well. Properly chewing feed is an important part of initiating digestion in the horse, allowing it to adequately utilise feed.

Less commonly considered aspects of dental health in our horses are gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (where the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and cause pockets of air between the gums and teeth). These conditions affect horses in a similar way to humans. Gingivitis usually precedes periodontitis and begins when bacteria in the mouth proliferate around the teeth and gums. The build-up of large numbers of bacteria that attack the gingiva or gums leads to inflammation. It’s important to note that as the disease progresses and the gums become swollen and bleed, bacteria are able to enter a horse’s bloodstream and travel around the body. This can result in high levels of systemic inflammation and adverse changes to gut microflora, thereby influencing overall health and digestive function. To read more on the systemic effects of dental health in horses, visit: Bad Breath in Horses

High parasite (worm) load

Did you know that there are more than 150 types of parasites that affect horses? The four most common types are strongyles, ascarids, tapeworms and bots. High numbers of parasites (a high parasite load) can contribute to inflammation throughout our horses’ digestive tracts, damage to the lining of the stomach and intestines and gastric and/or colonic ulcers. These inhibit our horses’ ability to properly digest and absorb their feed.

Simply drenching/worming our horses more frequently is generally not the answer. This can contribute to increased parasite resistance to anthelmintics (drugs used to help kill parasite), in addition to impacting a horse’s GIT microflora. Best practices involves the use of appropriately timed faecal egg counts, assessing parasite burden in the horse, and strategic drenching using appropriate anthelmintics. For more information on best drenching/deworming practice visit: Drenching/Deworming with Panacur

Inappropriate/insufficient exercise stimulus

For our horses to develop and maintain muscle mass and body condition there are several important components. Good GI health to properly digest, absorb and metabolise nutrients needed for protein synthesis and muscle cell growth (hypertrophy) are essential. Our horses also need to be fed a diet which meets both their protein and calorie requirements. An easily overlooked factor is appropriate type and quantity of exercise. Our horse need to be engaging the correct muscles in the correct frame to develop good muscle growth and conditioning. Horses who are not exercised adequately, and/or not engaging the correct muscles when working will fail to capitalise on their ability to develop good muscle mass. Horses who are spelling, injured or on box/stall rest will likely not maintain their best muscle mass. A useful analogy can be to think of a person who wants to gain muscle mass or muscle definition. If they eat plenty of protein and calories, yet spend their day largely inactive, sitting on the couch and not exercising, they will fail to properly develop optimal muscle strength and definition. On the other end of the spectrum, someone who trains really hard in the gym, but fails to eat enough quality food to fuel their training will not maximise muscle development gains. It takes a combination of both training and proper fuelling! To read more, visit: What Supplements are best for building Topline?

Windsucking/Cribbing

Windsucking (also known as cribbing or crib-biting) in horses is a stereotypy, or repetitive behaviour which can significantly impact a horse’s ability to put on or maintain weight.

In addition to weight loss and overall poor condition, wind sucking can result in abnormal development of muscles in the neck, and excessive wear of teeth- affecting a horse’s ability to chew properly. Cribbing can interrupt a horse’s daily routine, occupying several hours per day. This reduces time spent grazing and foraging. Cribbing is commonly associated with digestive discomfort, gastric ulcers and imbalances in specific neurotransmitters- all factors which are known to influence a horse’s ability to properly digest, absorb and metabolise their feed. To read more about windsucking/cribbing visit: Why do horses wind suck and crib bite?

The horse who fails to gain or maintain adequate weight and muscle mass can be frustrating. Whilst it is common to look at one likely reason for their weight struggles, there are generally several factors contributing to the state of the horse’s health. The good news is that when contributing factors are properly identified and addressed, the horse who once had difficulty putting on and/or maintaining weight can flourish. Additionally, by correcting the underlying issues, you are helping to facilitate the best health and performance in your horse.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

A commonly used ‘natural’ supplement for ‘marey’ mares is the herb Vitex agnes castus (commonly referred to as Vitex, Chasteberry or Chaste tree).

During the estrus phase of a mare’s oestrus cycle (the time when a mare is ‘in season’), oestrogen levels peak- which can cause behavioural changes and increased sensitivity in our mares and fillies.

Vitex is an herb which can help to increase progesterone levels. Increasing progesterone levels can help to counter some of the signs and symptoms associated with excessively high oestrogen levels. Yet this herb definitely isn’t suitable for all ‘marey’ mares and fillies and can actually make behavioural issues worse.

Like many herbs, Vitex has more than one therapeutic action. In addition to modulating progesterone levels, it has dopaminergic actions: it increases the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is a stimulant neurotransmitter, and whilst it is common to see horses in clinical practice with low dopamine levels, there are also horses who have naturally higher dopamine levels. Those with high dopamine levels can demonstrate behaviours of irritability, hyperactivity, hypersensitivity and/or aggression.

Giving vitex to mares who already have high dopamine levels can make the whole problem worse. In clinical practice, vitex is rarely an herb I use in cases of hormonal mares and fillies.

Appropriately prescribed herbal medicines can be incredibly valuable, but understanding their totality of pharmacological actions is crucial to ensure we help our horses and not make a problem worse. It’s also an important reminder that herbal medicines are best prescribed by a suitably qualified and experienced practitioner- not just purchased online or off the shop shelf.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

What we know from current research is that simply giving our horses tryptophan as a supplement doesn’t help promote calm behaviour- in fact, it may do the very opposite. Low doses of tryptophan given to horses actually promotes excitement, whilst high doses have been shown to reduce endurance capacity and cause haemolytic anaemia. In either case, hardly helping with overall health and performance.

The reasons for the effects of tryptophan supplementation on horses are likely multifaceted. We know that responses to tryptophan are species dependent- whilst it can be helpful in humans and some animal species, the same cannot be said for horses.

It is important to remember that very few nutrients act in isolation. For tryptophan to be converted to serotonin, it has to go through several metabolic processes. Each of these processes requires key nutrients to facilitate the conversion. Without sufficient nutrient levels and good gastrointestinal health to facilitate this, the conversion and metabolism of tryptophan are effected.

We also need to remember, like many facets of health- there is a sweet spot between not too little and not too much. The same is true for serotonin- too little, and our horses can be anxious, too much and they can become agitated.

The take-home message is that whilst some supplements can be incredibly useful, not all are. We can better promote healthy neurotransmitter levels (such as serotonin) by ensuring our horses are receiving a balanced diet providing all key nutrients in appropriate quantities and forms. Additionally, we want to ensure that we’re promoting optimal gastrointestinal health, as this in turn helps to facilitate both healthy nutrient production and neurotransmitter levels.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Horses and ponies are able to synthesise (make) their own vitamin B12 when they have a healthy balance of hindgut microflora, sufficient fibre in their diet and a suitable mineral intake- particularly adequate dietary cobalt.

What is commonly overlooked is the fact that injectable vitamin B12 is rapidly and nearly completely excreted via bile into a horse’s manure. In essence- they can’t use or absorb this form of B12…it just makes for expensive poo!

Having a healthy digestive system is incredibly important in our horses and ponies to promote many facets of their health: good hoof quality and growth, optimal metabolic and immune function, the production of neurotransmitters (natural chemicals) which help to promote calm behaviour and reducing inflammation.

The production of optimal levels of vitamin B12 to aid in athletic performance are just another reason why we need to focus on sound feeding and management practices and the judicious use of medications in order to promote good gastrointestinal and overall health. It is also an important reminder that we often just can’t out supplement poor dietary practices.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

In many cases, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as phenylbutazone (bute/PBZ) is used with the belief that it may help our horses. Other NSAIDs that may be used include flunixin (Banamine), meloxicam, aspirin or firocoxib.

When our horses undertake hard exercise, micro damage occurs in connective tissue (bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments). This micro damage is normal and is an important part of how our horses get stronger, fitter and adapt to training. Natural prostaglandins (special hormone-like compounds produced by the horse’s body) are produced in response to exercise and help to promote blood flow and to heal connective tissue after exercise. These prostaglandins play a key role in inflammation. We tend to think of inflammation as ‘harmful’ and excessive inflammation can negatively impact our horse’s health. There is a happy medium, however, and our horses need a certain amount of inflammation, particularly post-exercise to promote healing and recovery. When our horses are given NSAIDs, the production of these important prostaglandins is inhibited, in turn reducing our horse’s normal healing capacity and adaptation to training.

Furthermore, we know that the use of NSAIDs has adverse effects on gastrointestinal (GI) health. These drugs can cause damage to both the lining of the stomach and intestines, contribute to ulcers (both stomach and colonic) and cause undesirable changes in GI microflora (to read more, visit Inflammation & Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories in Horses). The effects of NSAIDs on GI health can further compromise recovery and adaptation to exercise in addition to the direct effects of impaired prostaglandin synthesis.

Whilst excessive levels of inflammation in horses can contribute to poor health, a certain amount of natural inflammation, particularly post-exercise is absolutely key to optimal recovery and improving fitness and strength.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

The signs and symptoms of both gastric and colonic ulcers can be very similar, and both can be very general and non specific. In the case of gastric ulcers, vets are able to perform a gastroscope to confirm (or exclude) the presence and severity of ulcers. Unfortunately, the tools available to diagnose hindgut ulcers are limited and don’t necessarily give us the same definitive answers.

Something that is really important to be aware of is that when colonic ulcers are suspected and stomach ulcers have been ruled out, the use of ‘ulcer medications’ (oral medications containing the active ingredient omeprazole or ranitidine and injectable esomeprazole) are NOT indicated. Ulcer medications stop or significantly reduce the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. These medications may actually contribute to worsening of the problem through interfering with proper digestion and causing more undigested feed (which should begin digestion in the stomach both directly and indirectly through the action of hydrochloric acid) to enter the hindgut and ferment. The only thing that should ferment in the hindgut is fibre! Other feeds fermented in the hindgut can contribute significantly to inflammation, damage to cells lining the hindgut and adversely impact delicate balances of microflora.  Hydrochloric acid is NOT produced in the hindgut and does NOT contribute to hindgut ulcers.

It’s worth remembering that both gastric and colonic ulcers can exist concurrently, and that simply ruling out gastric ulcers as a cause of a horse’s signs and symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that their gastrointestinal (GI) health is good. The successful treatment of gastric and/or hindgut ulcers should involve a comprehensive dietary and management plan (both during the healing phase and long-term), and identify and address the factors which have contributed to the development of poor GI health in the effected horse.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Selenium is a nutrient which has a relatively low safe upper limit range. High intakes (through diet and/or supplementation) can result in toxicity and even death in severe cases.

Many parts of the world have soils that are notoriously deficient in selenium- and thus the pastures and feeds grown for horses in them are also low in selenium. This has led to selenium being a commonly added mineral to horse feeds and many supplements.

Selenium comes in two main forms: organic and inorganic. Organic selenium has been demonstrated to have superior absorption, tissue uptake and ability to enhance antioxidant status compared to inorganic selenium. This is attributed to selenomethionine, the effective organic part of organic selenium.

One of the most popular sources of selenium used in horse feeds and supplements is selenium yeast (produced by them is the micro-organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae). Although selenium yeast contains high levels of organic selenium, not all of it is in the form of selenomethionine. Research has demonstrated that there are significant limitations in using selenium yeast to help achieve good selenium uptake and stores in the body. Although the product should in theory contain a certain amount of organic selenium on paper, the actual amount of organic selenium in the form of selenomethionine provided by selenium-containing yeast is often far less. A large percentage of the selenium provided by selenium-containing yeast is in a poorly absorbed inorganic form. This means that your horse is potentially utilising much less selenium than what is written on the label and may well be falling short of their requirements. Not all feeds and supplements use this form of selenium- so it is incredibly valuable to ascertain not only the amount of selenium in a product but also the form it is in. Seemingly minor details in feed and supplement formulations can have profound influences on our horse’s health and wellbeing.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Exercise (or lack thereof) SIGNIFICANTLY influences bone strength and density in the horse. For horses turned out in paddocks where they are free to move about, bone gets the opportunity to strengthen and increase in mass- due to the natural loading that occurs through daily movement.

Research has clearly indicated that young horses kept in stables/stalls have a significant reduction in bone mass- even when they are walked for an hour a day. Most sales yearlings undergo a prep where they are stabled for anywhere from 8-12 weeks. In many of these cases, turnout is restricted to small yards. Some facilities have no turnout for yearlings during this time. This immobility results in significantly decreased bone mass and strength at a time when horses should naturally be developing significant increases in bone mass.

So what can we do to improve this? For yearlings in sales prep, maximising paddock turnout time (where facilities allow) is one of the best ways to help. For the recently purchased yearling, turning them out for at least 8-12 weeks prior to commencing breaking allows bone density to increase. This is important, as in many breaking setups, horses will spend significant time stabled and/or in small yards and do relatively little ridden work, again resulting in reduced bone density. Having 2-3 months between the two periods gives bones a better chance to improve in mass, rather than continuing to decrease in density.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

What is Protein?

Protein is a crucial macronutrient in a horse’s diet and is comprised of long chains of building blocks called amino acids. There are 21 amino acids. The specific order and combination of amino acids determines the structure and function of each protein. Insufficient dietary intake of specific amino acids limits the production of key proteins essential in our horse’s bodies. For more in-depth information on protein quality see the article: Soy: The Good, Bad and Confusing.

Protein is Needed for Growth, Maintenance and Repair of Tissue

We commonly only think of this as important when we are trying to increase muscle mass in a horse. For instance, building top-line on our ridden horse, or conditioning a thoroughbred yearling for sale. Yet protein is absolutely essential for normal growth and development of the young horse, and recovery from riding and training in active horses. Insufficient protein in the diet can therefore increase risk of illness and injury in our horses. Times of illness and injury also increase protein requirements in order to help recover from the illness or heal from the injury. Providing insufficient protein to a sick or injured horse during their recovery can significantly delay and/or impair their healing and adversely impact their future athletic potential.

Protein Facilitates Biochemical Reactions

Enzymes are a specific type of protein that aid in the normal biochemical reactions that take place in a horse. Specific enzymes are needed to facilitate proper digestion (therefore helping to promote optimal gut health and utilisation of feed); energy production (helping a horse to perform); normal metabolism (helping to regulate weight and temperature in a horse); blood clotting; and muscle contraction. Insufficient protein in the diet can lead to digestive problems- a critical consideration given the heightened focus on gastrointestinal (GI) health. A common mistake is to restrict protein intake in the overweight horse: this can further slow metabolism (compounding the problem) and compromise overall health.

Protein is Required for Proper Communication in the Body

Hormones are chemical messengers that aid in communication between a horse’s cells, tissues and organs. They are needed for everything from normal growth, metabolism, reproductive function and digestion. Amino acids are also an important component of neurotransmitters: the chemical messengers which play a crucial role in a horse’s mood, temperament, learning and behaviour.

Protein Provides Structure

Different types of protein are essential for the formation of healthy bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, skin and hooves. Depending on the type of protein, they aid in providing structure, strength, elasticity and rigidity to specific tissues. Insufficient protein in the diet can make a horse more susceptible to injury to muscles, tendons, bones and ligaments. They may also have poor skin and/or hoof quality.

Protein Helps to Maintain pH Balance in the Body

Proteins act as a buffer system, helping a horse’s body to maintain proper pH values of the blood and other bodily fluids.

Protein Helps to Balance Body Fluid Levels

Albumin and globulin are two important proteins found in a horse’s blood. They help to maintain the body’s fluid balance by attracting and retaining water. If a horse’s diet has consistently has low quantities of quality protein, the levels of albumin and globulin eventually decrease. This can result in swelling or oedema as these proteins can no longer keep blood in the blood vessels, forcing the fluid into the spaces between cells. The irony is that protein is often blamed for causing swelling in horses- with the reverse often being the cause!

Protein is Needed for a Healthy Immune System

Protein is absolutely essential for white blood cell production and the formation of immunoglobulins (antibodies) needed to fight infection in our horses. Insufficient protein in the diet can leave a horse more susceptible to bacterial, viral and fungal infections.

Protein Aids in the Transportation and Storage of Nutrients

Transport proteins carry substances in our horse’s blood streams- into, out of and within cells. The substances transported by these proteins include nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, blood sugar, cholesterol and oxygen. Whilst we often think of iron as being a key driver in helping oxygen delivery to the body’s tissues, protein plays a paramount role- yet is often overlooked. Specific proteins also have a storage role: ferritin is a storage protein that stores iron.

Problems with Excessive Protein: Myths or Facts?

So now we can see that protein is absolutely vital in keeping our horses healthy, yet is there a downside to this nutrient? And can we feed too much? Like most things, the answer is relative to the situation and the individual horse.

Excess Protein

To overly simplify, horses are unable to store excess protein that they consume in their diet for later use. The metabolism of excess protein increases levels of nitrogen end-products, such as ammonia and urea. A diet containing excess protein will increase the horse’s water requirements and urine output as the ammonia and urea are flushed out of the body. If a horse is kept out at pasture, is only in light work and has free access to plenty of fresh water, this generally isn’t a problem. It is an issue however where horses are stabled. Exposure to this strong urine can cause lung irritation and other respiratory problems. Extra urination means extra wet bedding, which equates to more mucking out.

Metabolism of Protein Produces Heat

Protein digestion and metabolism is a heat generating process. A horse that is on a high protein diet that is burning a lot of protein as an energy source will sweat more to help get rid of the heat. It is important to remember that the body has a preference for using carbohydrates and fats over protein as an energy source, and will only use protein as a significant energy source when these other two nutrients don’t meet their requirements. Protein fed in appropriate amounts to meet a horse’s needs will not contribute greatly to heat production or sweating. Feeding excessive amounts of protein however, particularly to horses in hot and humid climates, or those undertaking moderate to heavy work, can contribute to dehydration and heat stress.

Protein Causes Poor Behaviour/ Hot Horses: MYTH

Protein is often blamed for making horses ‘hot’, nervy or spooky. This is turn can cause some owners to avoid including quality sources of protein in their horse’s diet. Protein has not been shown to cause behavioural issues in horses. Diets which are high in energy and excessive to a horse’s energy needs which are also high in protein can contribute to a horse being hyperactive or silly. The problem here is the overall energy intake, not the protein!

Kidney and/or Liver Damage: MYTH

In healthy horses, high protein diets have not been demonstrated to cause kidney and/or liver damage. In horses that have pre-existing liver or kidney problems, then protein intake may need to be restricted- ensuring that intake is still sufficient to meet a horse’s daily requirements but does not exceed them.

Take Home Message

As a general rule, I see far more horses in clinical practice with insufficient protein intakes compared to those with excessive protein intakes. Insufficient protein in the diet may leave a horse more susceptible to illness and/or injury and delay or impair their recovery. Including adequate, quality protein in the diets of our horses is absolutely essential in order for them to be healthy, perform and recover at their best.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Many horses spend the majority of their days in small paddocks, yards and stables. They only need to move minimally to have access to feed and water. Essentially, they are quite idle. Although widely variable depending on discipline, many horses in hard work don’t do more than 1-2 hours most days. Ridden time aside, they are essentially quite idle.

This is in stark contrast to the way horses move in herds in nature. Natural social groups of horses have evolved to never stop moving or eating for very long. Research in semi-feral herds has shown that horses move at least 17km per day! At different periods throughout the year, the distance they cover can increase significantly. When in search of forage or when interacting with other herds, horses may move up to 160km daily.

This movement plays a crucial role in keeping horses healthy. Contrastingly, lack of physical movement in domestic horses is an important contributing factor in many health conditions we see today. The large volumes of physical activity (along with the diet of wild horses) helps to prevent horses being overweight. The physical activity improves insulin sensitivity an important factor in metabolic syndrome, as well as many cases of laminitis. Laminitis in our horses is largely a ‘man-made’ disease.

The constant physical activity increases bone density and strength, as well as promoting muscle, tendon and ligament strength and development. This is likely to lead to stronger, sounder horses.

So how can we implement some of these benefits in our man-made modern settings?

We can take some of the principles and incorporate them into the management of our horses. The suggestions listed below are general suggestions which can be used where they are possible, safe and feasible. It’s about making the best of the situation and facilities that you have.

Where possible:

• Choose keeping your horse turned outside in preference to stabling.
• Choose larger fields over smaller paddocks and yards.
• Choose turning out in mobs as opposed to turnout alone to encourage movement and interaction.
• Consider the implementation of natural track systems in paddocks to encourage movement.
• Feed well away from water source- ie water at one end of the paddock, feed at the other.
• Consider hand walking the horse that isn’t ridden frequently.

For the majority of horses and ponies, increasing their overall daily physical movement and activity is most beneficial. Small changes can have a significant positive impact on your horse’s health, soundness and longevity.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Heat stress occurs when a horse’s thermoregulatory system cannot adequately dissipate heat. It is most common when exercising in hot, humid conditions, as exercise results in the generation of heat. Heat dissipation relies on evaporation of sweat: sweat cools the skin down and the blood flowing through it by evaporation. In hot, dry air, sweat evaporates very quickly but as the humidity increases, the speed at which sweat evaporates becomes less effective. Overweight and/or unfit horses are less effective at dissipating heat, increasing their risk of heat stress.

As a horse’s sweat levels increase, so does their loss of essential electrolytes. Horses are able to sweat faster than any other animal (thereby helping to cool themselves). Additionally, the electrolyte content of horse sweat is highly concentrated. The most significant electrolyte lost in sweat is salt. Salt must be supplemented in the horse’s diet to meet their daily sodium requirements- this is true even when horses sweat minimally. Processed horse feeds do not contain sufficient salt for basic daily requirements. Grass, hay and other feeds also do not help to meet our horse’s salt requirements. If electrolytes aren’t adequately replaced in the diet, insufficiencies/deficiencies and imbalances in electrolytes can occur in our horses (horses cannot make their own electrolytes). These imbalances and deficiencies in turn increase the likelihood and/or severity of poor performance. They may also be implicated in exertional rhabdomyolysis (tying up) and synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (thumps).

Dehydration is a risk factor in many horses. As they can sweat at such high rates, fluid losses are accentuated. Dehydration can increase the risk of several health conditions, one of the most common being colic. Dehydration can slow the passage of food material in the gastrointestinal (GI) system and make faeces much drier and firmer- resulting in impaction colic.

Respiratory health complications can also arise from dehydration. Respiratory tract irritation, inflammation and infection may all be consequences of dehydration. In a dehydrated horse, the mucus in the airways of the lungs increases in viscosity (thickness) and moves slower- resulting in accumulation of matter in the lungs.

Hot and/or humid weather can cause horse feed to go off much quicker than usual and can change the nutritional content of processed feeds. High fat feeds and oils will quickly go rancid in hot weather (it is important to note that this can occur without the feed or oil smelling ‘off’). This can lead to a horse consuming less feed than normal. Dehydration can also result in reduced appetite.

Some minerals and vitamins in different feeds also deteriorate in quality with heat, further compounding health issues. Reduced feed intake and/or changes in metabolic rate associated with hot and humid environmental conditions, can lead to weight loss in the horse.

Signs and symptoms to look out for that may be indicative of detrimental effects of heat and/or humidity in the horse include:

• Increased rectal temperature
• Poor performance
• Poor recovery post exercise
• Panting (fast, shallow breathing)
• Blowing excessively for a prolonged period of time after exercise
• Lethargy (often accompanied by the appearance of being unsteady on their feet)
• Muscle spasms
• Feeling very hot to touch
• Dark and/or reduced urine
• Nostril flaring
• Decreased appetite and/or thirst
• Irregular heart beat
• Thumps (synchronous diaphragmatic flutter)
• Dark mucous membranes
• Very prominent blood vessels on the skin

Helping to prevent heat stress and/or the consequences of high temperature and humidity takes a multi-faceted approach. Heat acclimatisation (when important competitions/events take place in the heat) is an important consideration. Horses, like humans, can become acclimated to heat. This generally takes 2-3 weeks, and requires them to be sensibly exercised in the heat and/or humidity on a daily basis. It is important to take into account that even fit, well acclimated horses may experience reduced performance in hot and/or humid weather conditions. Quite contrastingly- if you enjoy riding during hot weather (but are not competing in events that take place in the heat) then exercising your horse in the coolest parts of the day is an effective strategy.

Post exercise, adequately cooling down and hosing off your horse is important. In cases where a horse is extremely hot, hosing for 10-15 minutes with cold water may be necessary. Its best not to scrape the water off your horse in this case: water which sits on the skin will evaporate and help to contribute to the cooling process.

Ensure clean drinking water is always provided to your horse and don’t withhold water before or after exercise. Offering water immediately after exercising is recommended, as this is the time when a horse’s thirst is strongest. Try to avoid ice cold water, but don’t restrict intake. Giving water to a healthy horse post exercise is not associated with causing colic. With increased sweating rates, horses have increased fluid requirements- so expect and allow them to drink more.

The daily provision of adequate salt and the appropriate use of electrolytes are important to help maintain normal physiological processes in the body.

Exercising horses in hot and/or humid weather can pose some challenges, but sensible management and riding practices can help to minimise these. Keeping our horses properly hydrated, cooling them effectively post exercise, and ensuring we meet their dietary requirements are important factors in keeping them healthy in hot, humid weather.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Problems start to occur when levels of inflammation are excessive, and/or occur for extended periods of time- beyond that which the body needs for normal healthy repair and functioning. Inhibiting the body’s own repair and defence mechanisms however, can also be problematic.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are one of the most widely used classes of drugs in horses. The most commonly used NSAIDs in equines include phenylbutazone (bute), flunixin meglumine (commonly sold under brand names including Banamine, Finadyne, Flu-Nix, Flunixamine), firocoxib (Equioxx, Previcox) and meloxicam (Metacam).

How do Non- Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories Work?

When it comes to using NSAIDs in horses and ponies, understanding how these drugs work can help to make an informed approach about their appropriate use.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work on a chemical level. They inhibit the effects of special enzymes: specifically cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 enzymes. These enzymes play a key role in making prostaglandins which promote inflammation. By blocking the COX enzymes, NSAIDs reduce the production of prostaglandins and in turn inflammation. It is important to remember that other inflammatory pathways exist in the horse: COX-1 and COX- 2 are most commonly targeted.

COX-1 is expressed in nearly all tissues in the horse’s body and is necessary for proper gastrointestinal (GI) function, renal (kidney) function, and blood coagulation. COX-2 is also expressed at low levels in many tissues, contributing to normal kidney function and interestingly, playing a critical role in the healing of the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa (cells lining the GI).

The potential risks

Most people are well aware of the deleterious effects the use of NSAIDs can have on the GI lining in our horses. Although ulcers commonly come to mind, the effects of these drugs on the digestive tract of our horses extend far beyond this. In the case of phenylbutazone and flunixin, the production of mucin (which is one of our horse’s internal mechanisms for protecting and maintaining a healthy gut lining) is stopped. This is the primary way in which damage to the GI (including the development of ulcers) can occur with NSAID use. It is critical to note that this occurs regardless of whether the NSAID is given orally or by intravenous (IV) injection. It is not the physical presence of the drug in the GI system that causes the damage, it is the changes in inflammatory pathways.

It is common practice to give ulcer medications (specifically those containing omeprazole) in conjunction with NSAIDs, with the belief that this may help to offset the detrimental effects to the GI. Research has demonstrated however, that this practice can further compound damage caused to the GI mucosa. This is likely due to changes in blood flow to the gut lining and shifts in protective microflora of the GI.

Changes to GI microflora associated with NSAID use is a lesser discussed but equally important aspect in terms of our horse’s health. Although beyond the scope of this article, specific microflora serve crucial protective and anti-inflammatory actions in the GI of our horses. Significant changes in these fine balances of microflora can occur in association with NSAID use. This in turn has significant implications on the nutritional status of our horses. To read further on this topic visit the Gastrointestinal (Gut) Health heading in ‘Article’ section of the Optim Equine website.

Research has also indicated that the use of NSAIDs following hard work, competition or training is likely to inhibit desired adaptations and proper recovery to the exercise undertaken. Changes in blood flow and cellular repair mechanisms vital for proper recovery are altered by the use of NSAIDs. The practice of giving NSAIDs as a precautionary or ‘preventative’ method after hard work, racing, competition or training may in fact work against what is trying to be achieved.

What about selective and preferential COX-2 inhibitors?

In more recent years, the use of NSAIDs that selectively or preferentially inhibit COX-2 and don’t (in theory) inhibit COX-1 may cause fewer adverse effects than nonselective NSAIDs. Examples of these drugs include firocoxib and meloxicam.

Selective COX-2 inhibitors don’t entirely spare COX-1. They also inhibit COX-1 to a small degree, but generally carry a lower risk for direct damage to the gut lining. An interesting point to note is although COX-2 selective drugs may decrease the risk of developing GI ulcers compared to non-selective NSAIDs, they can impair the healing of pre-existing ulcers.  Additionally, similar to non-selective NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors are associated with changes in gut microflora, which in turn can lead to adverse effects on the GI system.

It is important to note that COX-2 is involved in normal, healthy kidney and cardiovascular function (thus administration of selective COX-2 inhibitors can still cause adverse renal and hameodynamic effects in susceptible horses).

The dosage amounts of COX-2 inhibitors needs to be taken into account when evaluating their potential risks and side effects. When COX-2 inhibitors are used in higher doses, their ability to be selective in their action on COX-2 enzymes decreases. That is, higher doses may cause effects similar to those of nonselective NSAIDs. Combining NSAIDs (for example, administering firocoxib and phenylbutazone together) has also been shown to increase the risk for adverse effects, including that to the kidneys.

Takeaways

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories have their place in illness and injury in horses and like all drugs, their use should be judicious. Selective and preferential COX-2 inhibitors may have less adverse effects on the GI system than non-selective NSAIDs, but still come with risks. Appropriate dietary, nutraceutical and supplementation practices may help to decrease detrimental effects to the GI, cardiovascular system and kidneys associated with NSAID use. Employing specific therapeutics and dietary strategies to restore gut mucosal integrity and reinstate a healthy GI microflora following NSAID use is highly advisable. In low and appropriate doses, selective COX 2 inhibitors may be a better choice in reducing adverse side effects when NSAID use is necessitated

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

It is well understood that performance and racehorses are subject to significant amounts of stress. This stress in and of itself can result in sub-optimal or poor performance in our horses. Performance aside, prolonged stress has a myriad of flow on effects to the overall health of our horses: it can compromise the wellbeing and function of the gastrointestinal system, the immune system, and the production and function of neurotransmitters (the brain chemicals influencing temperament and behaviour).

What is easily forgotten is that stress affecting our horse’s performance and well being does not necessarily have to originate from sources associated with training or the competitive event. Read that sentence again.

Performance and racehorses are exposed to a range of stressors most of which relate to the way they are kept, fed and managed (this is largely dictated by training regimes, available facilities or convenience). These are stressful because they affect the behavioural needs of the horse as a species.

Behavioural needs are species-specific highly motivated behaviours that are performed by an animal and more often than not have a functional role. The horse has some physiological ‘need’ to perform the behaviour. Foraging (grazing) is a primary example of this. In a natural environment, forage is generally available ad lib with a horse spending up to 70% of its day eating! For horses, the reduction of eating time to two meals per day can meet the nutritional requirements of the animal, but is unlikely to meet the horse’s behavioural need to forage. In the competition horse, restriction of behavioural needs induces a chronic stress response which will subsequently prevent optimal individual performance. It also has a significant flow on effect to gastrointestinal (gut) and immune health.

Some of the most basic feeding and management practices have the most profound influence on our horse’s health and performance. It can be easy to rush in and add the latest fad supplement to our horse’s feed to try and remedy a stressed horse or poorly performing horse, but it is more valuable to ask ourselves:

• What are some of the less obvious sources of stress in our horses?
• What are some of the dietary and management changes we can make for true lasting benefit?

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

For the purpose of this article, we will focus on IA: where the solution is injected directly into the joint itself. In this category of joint injections, there are several types of substances which are commonly injected into the joint: hyaluronic acid (HA); polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG); and corticosteroids. In many cases, these joint injections are given in conjunction with an antibiotic, most commonly amikacin.

With any IA injection there is risk of harm involved in the procedure. Joint cartilage damage and septic arthritis are serious complications. A common practice is to combine an antibiotic with the medication injected into the joint, with the belief that it may help to prevent infection and subsequent septic arthritis. Yet, the inclusion of antibiotics in joint injections has not been shown to reduce the risk of infection following injection. Furthermore, use of antibiotics in joints is ‘off-label’, with no data currently supporting the doses of antibiotics equine vets use in joints.

Recent research has demonstrated that higher doses of the antibiotic amikacin used in IA injections causes increased levels of inflammation within the joint, in addition to clear evidence of cartilage damage. Of the multiple antibiotics evaluated in the research, amikacin was the most cytotoxic (harmful) to chondrocytes (cartilage cells), rapidly inducing their death. Remember, this is the antibiotic most commonly used in joint injections.

Damage to the joint may be more profound when corticosteroids are the medication used in the joint: research has demonstrated that even a single intra-articular corticosteroid injection can cause irreversible damage to articular cartilage and underlying bone. Combining both IA corticosteroids and amikacin can potentially compound the detrimental effects to joint integrity.

Whilst there may be instances where the use of corticosteroids in the joint are well indicated, we need to stop and ask the question as to why we are injecting the joints in the first place. Routinely injecting joints with medications including corticosteroids and/or amikacin are unlikely to promote long-term soundness in our horses, and indeed may be doing them more harm than good. Using IA joint injections containing corticosteroids and/or antibiotics as a ‘preventative measure’ in horses who are sound and have no joint pathology should be seriously questioned.

Before joints are injected, a comprehensive assessment should be carried out in order to determine reasons for lameness and/or poor performance in the horse. Joint pathology should be thoroughly assessed by the veterinarian. Is joint pain the actual cause of the pain or poor performance in the horse? Feeding factors should be reviewed (is the horse consuming a diet that promotes inflammation)? Are the feeding of accessory nutrients known to promote cartilage, bone and joint health and integrity indicated? And are these being fed in appropriate doses and highly bioavailable forms to the horse? Workload and work surfaces should be assessed: is the horse following an appropriately periodised training program, and are the surfaces being ridden on conducive to soundness? Consideration of the horse’s build and bodyweight should be taken into account: more weight equates to more mechanical stress and wear and tear through a joint. Furthermore, excessive levels of body fat in a horse increase inflammatory mediators, heightening any joint inflammation. Trimming and shoeing practices can significantly influence the force going through a horse’s joints, thus appropriate farriery is an essential component of promoting soundness in the horse.

Joint health is one of the most significant concerns in working horses. Management, exercise, farriery, nutritional and therapeutic factors all play an important role in promoting optimal joint health and soundness in our equines. Serious consideration needs to be given to the use of IA corticosteroids and/or antibiotics as they may significantly compromise cartilage, bone and joint health and integrity in our horses.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

For the purpose of this article, we will focus on soy bean meal and feeds containing processed soy- not soy oil or soy bean hulls- as these components alone have significantly different nutritional value and properties.

Pros

Soy is one of the more widely fed significant sources of protein in a horse’s diet. It is a common misconception that protein is only needed to promote weight gain, muscle condition or the development of topline. Whilst it is important in these instances (in combination with appropriate exercise and training), protein is absolutely essential for a multitude of functions in all horses at any life stage and exercise level: it is a critical component of normal immune function; facilitates proper growth and repair of the musculoskeletal system; and is needed for the majority of metabolic processes in the horse. Even horse’s who aren’t in heavy work and/or actually need to lose weight need sufficient protein in their diet.

Protein is comprised of smaller units called amino acids. Horses require 21 amino acids, 12 of which a horse can synthesise (produce) themselves. The remaining nine (and in the case of illness or injury- potentially ten) amino acids must be present in a horse’s diet. These are known as ‘essential amino acids’. In addition to all essential amino acids being present in the diet, they must be present in appropriate quantities- so a horse has enough of each of them to facilitate various bodily functions. If they fall short of any essential amino acids then health, normal development, performance and recovery may be compromised.

With the exception of oils, practically all horse feeds, grains and forages contain SOME protein- Depending on the exact feed source, the actual amounts of protein contained in these feeds will vary. Different sources of protein are comprised of different sequences of amino acids. This influences how useful they are to a horse. Some high protein feed sources are actually of little value to a horse, as they lack decent amounts of essential amino acids that a horse needs, or they are unable to be properly digested and absorbed by a horse.

So how does all this relate to soy? Soy is one of the best dietary sources of lysine for our horses and ponies. Lysine is a very important essential amino acid in the equine and it is generally one which is lowest in our horse’s diets. Lysine is absolutely essential for normal muscle growth and turnover, helps to promote collagen integrity (important for healthy bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments), is critical for proper immune function, and may further help bone health through improving calcium absorption and utilisation. Animal studies have also shown that diets low in lysine may be associated with anxiety. Thus, a diet low in lysine may be one of many potential contributing factors in some cases of horses with an anxious tendency.

For horses competing in endurance events, optimising hydration pre-event is an important consideration. Commercial soy feed products which require soaking before being fed, can help to increase fluid intake in horses. It’s important to keep in mind that there are other feeds which can be used for this same purpose. Soy is not the only option.

Being a low starch and protein rich feed, processed soy meal can aid in stabilising blood glucose levels- thus helping to prevent rapid spikes in insulin levels. High insulin levels are a driving factor of equine metabolic syndrome and are commonly implicated in many cases of laminitis. Horses with Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) (also commonly referred to as ‘Cushings’) and Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM)- a component in many cases of ‘tying up’, may also particularly benefit from a diet low in starch and containing adequate quantities of quality protein.

The phytoestrogen content of soy is an important, yet often misunderstood concept. Soy is unique in that it contains a high concentration of isoflavones, a type of plant oestrogen (phytoestrogen) that is similar in function to the hormone oestrogen but with much weaker effects. Soy isoflavones can bind to oestrogen receptors in the body and can either increase or decrease oestrogen levels in the body. Research has demonstrated that when oestrogen levels in the body are naturally low, then ingestion of phytoestrogens may help to increase the body’s levels.  When oestrogen levels in the body are naturally high, then consuming phytoestrogens may help to reduce oestrogen levels, as they bind to some of the receptor sites that naturally produced oestrogen may bind to.

Potential Cons

The phytoestrogen activity of soy may also potentially be a drawback of this feed. Excessively high intakes of phytoestrogens have the potential to decrease testosterone levels, an important consideration in stallions and colts. Soy certainly isn’t the only source of phytoestrogens commonly found in horse diets: clover grass is rich in phytoestrogens. Before attributing potential positive or negative effects of phytoestrogens in a horse’s diet, the total quantity of all phytoestrogen rich food sources needs to be taken into account.

Soy is commonly attributed to causing allergic symptoms in horses- everything from itchiness and skin irritation, colic and digestive disturbances, to overly-reactive behaviour and respiratory issues. Whilst soy is a common allergen in humans, the same has not yet been demonstrated in horses. Diagnostic tests for equine food allergies are difficult to carry out, time-consuming and often unreliable. In clinical practice, I find that the majority of horses with allergy related symptoms (whether these be environmental or food related) improve significantly when overall nutritional status and specific components of both immune and gut health have been therapeutically addressed. Generally something which may appear to cause allergic symptoms in a horse is not the real culprit.

A significant valid concern with soy is the fact that it is one of the most commonly genetically modified (GM) crops. Whilst this is only an issue in some parts of the world, it is certainly worth taking into consideration. Animal studies with GM foods indicate that they may cause some common toxic effects such as hepatic, pancreatic, renal, or reproductive effects and may alter blood parameters and immune function.

Soy is high in omega six fatty acids. Whilst these types of fatty acids are an essential component in our horse’s diets, they are generally present in higher than desirable amounts. Of further importance is the percentage of omega six fatty acids in proportion to omega three fatty acids. High levels of omega six fatty acids with accompanying low levels of omega three fatty acids are known to promote inflammation. Adding large amounts of soy products to a diet already high in omega six fatty acids further accentuates the shift towards a pro-inflammatory tendency. This can  have wide-ranging effects from impairing recovery from training, competition and exercise; compromising immune function; and exacerbating already existing inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, desmitis, placentitis and laminitis to name a few.

Uncooked or even inadequately cooked soybean meal has some anti-nutritional factors. Trypsin inhibitor is the most significant one. Trypsin is an essential enzyme which helps horses to properly digest protein, allowing for absorption and metabolism of the amino acids which make up the protein. Trypsin inhibitor found in uncooked soybean prevents trypsin from being able to properly break down proteins. This means that in the presence of trypsin inhibitors a large percentage of all protein from all sources a horse is consuming is unable to be properly digested, absorbed and metabolised.

Some concerns exist that soy can have a negative effect on thyroid function and can alter the levels of thyroid hormones. Whilst the majority of data is from human studies, it is unlikely that regular consumption of small amounts of soy containing foods have significant impact on thyroid function in healthy subjects. In cases where hypothyroidism already exists (keeping in mind that diagnosis and true cases of hypothyroidism in horses is rare), then reviewing the appropriate feeding of soybean containing products is warranted.

Conclusion

Processed soybean meal and feeds containing this product can be a valuable inclusion in the diets of many horses. Factors which may caution against the feeding of soy to some horses include specific health concerns and where in the world the soy is grown and produced. Soybean meal MUST be properly heat treated to prevent trypsin inhibitor from interfering with protein digestion. The quantity of soy products fed and the overall diet of the horse are crucial factors to take into consideration.

Rarely is anything inherently good or bad: the same may be said of soybean products. The most important consideration is that one size doesn’t fit all: feed the individual horse in front of you!

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Successful rehabilitation should certainly address physical aspects (farriery, bodywork, laser and other therapies where appropriate), management factors (restricted turnout, etc if relevant) and graduated exercise and training. Yet one of the most influential factors in a horse’s successful recovery is its nutrition- something which is often given very little consideration.

One of the primary concerns for many owners, trainers and riders are to stop their injured horse from getting overly fat- particularly in an extended layoff. As a result, many people understandably cut their horse’s feed right back. However, during the initial phases of healing post-injury- a horse’s energy and nutrient requirements are actually elevated. Healing of the body is an energy-requiring process. Structurally, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments need specific nutrients to ensure their optimal repair and integrity.  Thus, drastically cutting both their energy and nutrient intake can significantly impair, delay or compromise healing. It is important to note, however, that a horse’s energy and nutrient requirements will change throughout its recovery. After the initial phases of healing have occurred, there is generally a decrease in energy needs. Depending on the type of injury, nutrient needs (for example certain minerals, vitamins and specific nutraceuticals) often remain elevated beyond normal.  This is where it is important to adjust a horse’s diet so that it still receives proper nutrition for continued good health, whilst also ensuring that it doesn’t get too heavy. In terms of musculoskeletal injuries, particularly of the lower limbs, weight is an important factor. More weight equates to more force going through the limbs, which can compromise healing. A healthy balance needs to be achieved between appropriate weight given the phase of recovery, whilst ensuring optimal nutritional intake.

Nutritional requirements are further compounded by the medications used in many cases of illness or injuries in our horses. Anti-Inflammatory drugs including NSAIDs such as phenylbutazone (‘bute’) and flunixin interfere with our horse’s ability to synthesise B group vitamins (including biotin) and vitamin K (essential for proper bone and connective tissue healing). They also adversely impact a horse’s gut microflora, which in turn is likely to result in increased production of inflammatory mediators (thus more inflammation, despite the use of anti-inflammatories). The effects of corticosteroids on nutritional status are more complex than NSAIDs: they are known to reduce the absorption and/or increase the excretion and/or impact on the metabolism of important nutrients essential for optimal healing. Some of these nutrients include magnesium, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and selenium.

Antibiotics also significantly influence the nutritional status of the horse. Through changes in gut microflora in the horse- the production of B group vitamins and vitamin K are compromised. Some classes of antibiotics also interfere with the normal metabolism of vitamin A, calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron. Similar to NSAIDs, they may also influence the production of inflammatory mediators through changes in gut microflora.

Ulcer treatments are another commonly used medication in the horse recovering from illness or injury.  Those containing key active constituents of omeprazole (the ‘gold standard’ ulcer medications on the market) or ranitidine, drastically reduce the uptake of minerals essential for healing- including calcium and magnesium. These medications also may influence the production of inflammatory mediators: their mechanism of halting or drastically reducing hydrochloric acid production significantly changes the environment needed to promote healthy gut microflora in the horse.

So the effect of such medications during injury or illness is a double whammy: a horse already has increased nutrient requirements to properly heal AND many of these critical nutrients are at decreased levels because of the use of such medications.

Whilst pharmaceutical drugs are certainly indicated in the recovery from many illnesses and injuries, their use needs to be judicious. When they are used, the appropriate supplementation of specific nutrients is critical to firstly compensate for what is altered through medication use, and secondly to meet the body’s elevated needs of certain nutrients essential for optimal healing.

Illness or injury in the horse can be used as a most valuable opportunity to review your horse’s feeding, supplementation, management and riding practices. Whilst many injuries and accidents are unavoidable- there are plenty where appropriate dietary and supplementation practices tailored to the individual horse may have helped to prevent or reduce the severity of the setback. The same may be said of the review of medications used in the horse where relevant. These factors, combined with appropriately structured training and competition (which includes ‘down periods’ and rest days), farriery, and bodywork are keys to keeping our horses healthy, sound and well.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Many regions in the world have low iodine levels in the soil. Iodine deficient soils are most common in inland regions, mountainous areas, land that frequently floods, and on occasion, some coastal regions. Unless horse diets are adequately supplemented, horses that graze on pastures in these regions and/or consume hay and feed crops grown in these areas, are likely to fall well short of their minimal iodine requirements. Research has also demonstrated reduced uptake of iodine by pastures which have been grown with high levels of nitrogen fertilisers, even in soils with otherwise reasonable iodine levels.

Like many minerals however, too much iodine can be just as problematic as too little iodine. This can easily occur when our horses are given multiple supplements, and/or feeding inappropriate quantities of fortified feeds. An innocent mistake commonly made in relation to iodine supplementation is the use of seaweed supplements. In many cases, this can result in excessive iodine intake.

Many clinical signs and health consequences of iodine excess often mimic those of iodine deficiency. An important reminder that more is not better, and supplementing without taking specific details into account can be detrimental to horse health, fertility, metabolic function, growth and development.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) affects 60-90% of adult horses and 25-50% of foals and weanlings. The condition collectively refers to sores or erosions that develop in portions of the horse’s sensitive stomach lining. EGUS is largely a man-made disease: common feeding practices; lack of forage in the diet; stress we place on our horses; intense exercise; travelling; and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (for example ‘bute’ and flunix), corticosteroids and/or antibiotics are some of the many factors which increase a horse’s risk of developing EGUS.

Ulcers can also occur in the hindgut (colon), however, treatment approaches tend to differ to that from EGUS and for the purpose of this article, we will focus on EGUS.

The function and health of a horse’s stomach significantly influences that of the rest of its digestive system- often referred to as the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

Ulcer medications are sold under many different trade names, but generally contain one of two main drugs. The gold standard pharmaceutical for treating gastric ulcers is the drug called Omeprazole. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Omeprazole is available in both oral and injectable forms. The other less commonly used medication is Ranitidine. Ranitidine belongs to a class of drugs known as Histamine (H2) Receptor Antagonists.

Although slightly different in their mechanisms of action, both omeprazole and ranitidine result in the prevention/significant reduction of hydrochloric acid production (HCl). This however, is where the problem begins. Hydrochloric acid is an essential and normal component of a horse’s digestive system. It also plays a key role in immune function. 

Hydrochloric acid acts as a barrier against foreign microorganisms and helps prevent infection.

Hydrochloric acid is a key component to help horses breakdown, digest, absorb and utilise their feed, and hence many of the nutrients contained within it.

When HCl production is suppressed, the proper absorption of many key minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron is inhibited. This in turn can have significant consequences in terms of bone/skeletal health, immune health, energy production, fertility, etc.

The pH of a horse’s digestive tract naturally varies depending on the region of the GIT. The production of HCl is key in controlling the pH in the horse’s stomach. Altering the pH in the stomach subsequently alters pH throughout the rest of the digestive tract. Changes in these normal/natural pH levels for horses influences the community of microbes (bacteria, protozoa, archaea and fungi) that inhabit a horse’s digestive system. Like humans, there are microbes which are beneficial and healthy for horses, and there are also those that are not. When we start interfering with the natural pH of a horse’s digestive tract by shutting down HCl production, we start to create an uninhabitable environment for these beneficial microbes. The result? Commonly an overgrowth of undesirable bacteria, fungi and protozoa. 

The consequences of these changes extend beyond the digestive system. Fine balances in these microbes have significant impacts upon a horse’s overall health, metabolism, ability to digest, absorb and utilise their food and immune function.

In terms of immune function, shutting down HCl production is a double whammy: the horse loses its first line of immune defence from the direct action of HCl in the stomach (helping to counter ingested pathogens), in addition to the changes in microflora further down the digestive tract. Research suggests that approximately 70% of immune function is attributed to the role of specific cells of the GIT and the microbes which inhabit it. Thus adverse changes in the microbial population and balance can result in significantly impaired immune function.

Healthy bacteria further down the GIT are also vital to synthesise B group vitamins (including biotin). Hence it is no coincidence that horses with compromised gut health often have poor hoof quality. B group vitamins play vital roles systemically in our equines: they are required for energy production and proper metabolic function; reproductive function and neurotransmitter production and function (natural chemical substances produced in our horse’s bodies).

In terms of neurotransmitter production and function, again ulcer medications can have a wide ranging effect. Undesirable changes in microbes throughout the digestive tract directly influence the production and function of neurotransmitters (chemicals which influence temperament, behaviour, motor control, pain perception and learning in horses). It is thought that 60-95% of neurotransmitters are produced by microbes of the GIT. This may in part explain why you can still have a cranky, irritable, spooky horse despite extensive treatment for ulcers. Neurotransmitters also play a key role in influencing sensitivity and motility of the GIT. Ever had a horse prone to colic that is routinely on ulcer medication?

Unfavourable changes in GIT microflora are also known to heighten systemic inflammation in the body. Thus any inflammatory condition (including: sesamoiditis; arthritis; inflammatory bowel disease, placentitis, desmitis, laminitis) are potentially exacerbated by adverse changes in GIT microflora.

When it comes to fertility and reproductive function, the use of omeprazole needs to be considered. In stallions, omeprazole use may result in impaired sperm quality, abnormal sperm morphology, reduced sperm motility and reduced sperm count. Omeprazole may also cause a reduction in serum testosterone levels. In mares, particularly those with chronic recurrent infections and biofilms-their ability to colonise their reproductive tract with beneficial microflora may be hampered by the use of ulcer medications.

The effective prevention of gastric ulcers requires an holistic approach that focuses on dietary and management strategies. Through diligent management and qualified prescription, ulcers can be treated effectively with a combination of nutraceuticals and specific herbal medicines. These should always be prescribed in conjunction with appropriate dietary modification. Use of any medication needs to be judicious- as medications rarely come without side effects. Not only is repeated and/or extensive use of PPIs or H2 receptor antagonists financially expensive, their long-term effects on a horse’s health can be extremely costly.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

The Oestrus Cycle in the Mare

Horses are seasonal breeders: that is, they are programmed to mate and become pregnant at certain times of the year. Over the winter months, the majority of mares (particularly those in temperate climates) are anoestrus- meaning they don’t cycle. As daylight hours increase over the spring and leading into the summer, hormonal changes occur in the body, acting as a stimulus for them to become reproductively active. Nutrition and climate also play an important role in influencing a mare’s oestrus cycle. Some mares appear to cycle all-year round (this is more likely in far-north Australia).

Early in spring, as a mare transitions from aneostrus to cycling, the timing of when she comes into heat may be prolonged or erratic, with accompanying unpredictable behaviour. As the season progresses, the mare’s cycle should become more regular: having three week cycles. The average oestrus cycle of a mare is 21 days, which can be divided into two distinct phases: the oestrous phase (when a mare is ‘in heat’ and receptive to a stallion; and the dioestrous phase (when a mare is generally not receptive to a stallion). The oestrous phase usually lasts somewhere between 5-7days. At this time, the hormone oestrogen is at a high level, and this is the period often associated with changes in behaviour in susceptible mares. The dioestrous phase is generally lasts for 14-16 days, characterised by high levels of the hormone progesterone and a mare generally having little or no receptivity to a stallion.

It is these two female sex hormones- oestrogen and progesterone which strongly influence behaviour patterns demonstrated by many mares and fillies during the breeding season. Most commonly, a mare who is susceptible to displaying ‘mareish’ behaviour will demonstrate this behaviour during the oestrous phase, in associating with elevated oestrogen levels. It is important to remember though that there are always exceptions to this- especially in mare’s/fillies who have erratic cycles.

Important Considerations

Before concluding that a mare or filly’s behaviour patterns are purely related to her oestrus cycle, it is important to ensure that there are no significant other contributing factors. As in all animals, horse behaviour is comprised of several components, including: innate (genetic); learned (environmental); pain-associated behaviour; and sexual (hormonal). Keeping this in mind, it is important to remember that some behavioural problems are the results of genetics, injury/illness, poor training and/or past bad experiences.

Additionally, some diseases can result in behaviour that appears very similar to what many mares experience during the breeding cycle. An ovarian tumour can cause consistently high levels of oestrogen, which may cause the mare to be constantly ‘in season’. Bladder infections can cause a mare to raise her tail and urinate frequently; and injury, nerve impingement or arthritis in the spine or hind legs can result in a mare frequently squatting down. These are all signs that may be typical of a mare in season, with only subtle differences. For these reasons, ongoing behavioural issues should be thoroughly investigated by a vet to rule out illness or injury.

Natural strategies and treatments to managing behaviour in the oestrous cycle

For the healthy mare whose signs are purely related to hormonal changes (having excluded other conditions/reasons mentioned above), there are many useful dietary, nutritional and herbal strategies which can be employed.

It is of upmost importance to remind owners/riders of mares and fillies that many of these horses who experience sensitivity to physical touch during their cycle are actually experiencing some degree of pain or cramping, similar to many human women! Hence some care and compassion are called for, and appropriately addressing and rectifying this through the use of nutritional and herbal strategies is invaluable.

Dietary and  management strategies aim at reducing excessive oestrogen levels during the oestrous period- thereby helping to reduce classic signs associated with the dominance of this hormone. Keeping a mare at a healthy weight and avoiding becoming overly fat is one of the first considerations. Fat tissue itself acts as an endocrine organ (meaning it produces hormones), and commonly results in the production of high oestrogen levels and inflammatory mediators, thereby aggravating behavioural symptoms, in addition to cramping and pain. Another important dietary consideration is keeping the mare/filly on a nutritional program which stabilises blood-glucose levels, thereby keeping the levels of insulin (another hormone) balanced. Generally, a diet which is high in roughage and low in refined grains, starches and added sugars can help to meet all of the above goals. Ensuring the diet has sufficiently high omega-3 fatty acids and proportionally lower levels of omega-6 fatty acids is important. For the horse with high energy requirements, additional sources of healthy fats may be used to meet these needs. The importance of balancing feed intake with appropriate exercise cannot be over-stated: physical activity plays an important part in weight management; regulating blood glucose and insulin levels; and keeping inflammatory mediators at healthy levels. Cooked and/or crushed linseed is a beautiful addition to the diet: helping to balance inflammatory mediator levels; providing a rich source of dietary lignans (which can help to reduce excessive oestrogen levels); and helping to promote a healthy coat and skin (thanks to the high oil content).

Nutritional supplements can be a most valuable addition on several fronts when aiming to promote health and happiness in the hormonal mare! Strategic use of appropriate nutrients can help to reduce inflammation; minimise spasm and cramping; and optimise blood glucose and insulin levels. Depending on the individual horse, these can include: high quality fish oils; magnesium; B group vitamins; vitamin C and chromium. As with any nutritional supplementation, professional consultation should be sought to ensure safety and efficacy.

Herbal medicines are a most effective form of treatment in holistically managing a hormonal mare. When prescribed appropriately, herbs such as Vitex and White Peony can help to regulate a mare’s cycle, aiding in  ‘normalising’ behaviour, balancing oestrogen and progesterone levels and reducing spasmodic cramping and associated sensitivity to touch (think of the mare who hates her flanks being touched or leg pressure applied when in season). Additionally, the herbs Ginger, Sarsaparilla  and Cramp Bark are incredibly effective at modulating inflammation, cramping and associated pain when in season. For the mare who still remains somewhat edgy and irritated, Chamomile, Vervain and Valerian can be incredibly useful. As with any herbal prescription, seek professional, qualified advice to ensure the safety, efficacy and appropriate use of such herbs. In particular, the use of hormone modulating herbs (such as several of those mentioned above) need to be strictly monitored. Several of the herbs previously mentioned also have restricted use in some forms of competition.

Mares and fillies can be some of the toughest and most competitive horses. A little understanding of the oestrus cycle, how to best manage it, and effective strategies for those horses that become ‘out of sorts’ during this time can go a long way to achieving the results you are after, not to mention having a happier, more co-operative horse!

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Clinical signs of ER vary, depending on the severity of the condition. Symptoms of tying up can occur during exercise, and are most commonly exhibited within two hours of completing exercise. The classic picture of a horse effected by ER is that of one with an increasingly short, stiffened stride during exercise, then being very reluctant or unable to move after exercise. Many adopt an unusual stance, looking as though they wish to urinate. The muscles of the hindquarters are usually the most severely effected: being firm, painful and cramping. Other signs such as profuse sweating and elevated heart, temperature and respiratory rate are commonly part of the ER picture. Many horses will paw the ground with their front legs. In severe cases, horses will pass a red-brown coloured urine (known as myoglobinuria). This occurs due to the extensive damage of muscle fibres leaking myoglobin (a muscle protein) into the blood, which is then subsequently excreted through the kidneys.

Classification

Based on current understanding of tying up, horses can be classified into two different types:

• Sporadic ER: these horses experience generalised signs of tying up on rare occasion;
• Chronic ER: these horses experience repeated episodes of tying up, with the first occurrence usually at a young age.

Some research suggests that a third type exists: Subclinical tying up. These horses do not exhibit severe clinical signs, but may have an associated loss of performance, poor finishing ability (in races), pain over the effected muscle(s) and subtle gait abnormalities.

Recent research differentiates between two distinct types of Chronic ER: Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomylosis (RER) in which there is a defect in the mechanism of muscle contraction; and Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM), a disorder which results in excessive carbohydrate storage in muscles.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ER and RER is based on a history, or current clinical signs of stiffness and muscle pain after exercise, combined with confirmation by elevated blood enzyme levels of creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

Contributing and risk factors

Current understanding of tying up suggests that there are multiple potential causes and contributing factors associated with ER. Those which result in a case of tying up will vary between individual horses, and most horses who experience ER will be sensitive to a combination of different factors. These include:

• Exercising beyond current fitness level
• Hormonal influences
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Various vitamin and mineral deficiencies/insufficiencies
• Long periods of travel
• Rest days
• Fillies: Fillies have four times the risk compared to geldings
• Age: the incidence of ER generally decreases as a horse ages
• Nervous disposition
• Genetic predisposition
• High grain/high starch diet
• Altered carbohydrate metabolism
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Hypothyroidism
• Dehydration
• Viral infection
• Medication use (for example corticosteroids)

Prevention and Management Strategies

As with any health condition in a horse, a holistic approach which covers nutritional, exercise, management and supplementation practices is the most effective approach to preventing and managing ER episodes.

Exercise

Ensuring a horse is properly fit for the competition/exercise it is about to undertake is one of the first considerations in relation to tying up, particularly sporadic ER. Although self explanatory, it is amazing how often horses are taken to competitions with minimal riding and conditioning prior to the event.

Horses which have suffered a prior episode of tying up are best exercised on a daily basis, following a consistent, structured program. Complete rest days are best avoided. This does not have to mean they are ridden daily: hand-walking and longeing are also suitable.

Ensure that a thorough warm-up and cool down are completed before and after ridden work at home and competitions- this helps stimulate oxygen delivery to prepare the muscles for exercise, and reducing lactic acid levels in muscle tissue.

Management

The incidence of tying up episodes can be reduced by effective management practices. Keeping a horse turned out in a paddock (as opposed to stabled) is preferable, as this encourages natural, incidental movement. Avoiding situations and environments which unnecessarily stir-up a horse is also important. Horses which become unduly anxious or excited experience fluctuations in cortisol levels, which further disrupt other hormone levels in the body, increasing the risk of tying up.

Travel

Many competitions are associated with travelling long distances to and from the event, thus providing important opportunities to adopt practices which may help prevent tying up. Ensure horses are properly hydrated before and after travel, and offered electrolytes when travelling long journeys and/or in hot weather. At a minimum, horses should have free access to a pure salt lick (such as a Himalayan salt block). When arriving at the competition, it is advisable to handwalk the horse for a minimum of 15-20 minutes upon unloading (also remember to do this upon arrival back home after the competition!). When travel involves overnight stays away from home, turnout in a

medium sized yard (as opposed to a small yard or stable), which the horse can freely walk around in is most preferable. It is important to ensure that at completion of competition, horses are cooled down properly before being loaded to travel home.

Diet

In many cases, easily implemented dietary changes can have a most profound impact on horses susceptible to tying up. One of the first steps is to significantly reduce grain intake, substituting with fat sources to meet the horse’s energy requirements.  Ensure that the horse is also receiving a minimum of 1.5% of its body weight in forage daily, this is important for the provision of energy, stabilising blood glucose and in turn hormonal levels and optimising health of the gastrointestinal tract.

The inclusion of free access to salt in the diet is important, as most feeds are generally very low in sodium chloride.

Nutritional Supplementation

Despite the wide availability and use of fortified feeds, the judicial use of specifically indicated nutritional supplements is most beneficial for horses susceptible to ER. Electrolytes (potassium, sodium and chloride), magnesium, calcium, vitamin B1, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, chromium and selected amino acids may all help to prevent tying up. Each of these nutrients plays specific roles in the body. When supplementing a horse, it is essential to seek professional advice, both for your horse’s safety and in the best financial interests of you as the owner! No horse should ever be on a cocktail of supplements: each therapeutic given to the horse should have a clear role and timeline for its indicated use. It is of vital importance to know that specific nutrients can be toxic in high doses; the bioavailability (how much of the supplement a horse can absorb and use) varies dramatically between supplement brands and forms; and some nutrients compete for absorption, therefore decreasing the amount available for the horse’s body to use.

Herbal Therapy

Herbal medicine offers a valuable toolbox of therapeutic options for the horse susceptible to tying up. Suitable herbs can effectively aid in naturally regulating hormonal levels; relaxing muscles; promoting increased blood flow to muscles and removal of lactic acid and metabolic by-products from the muscles; balancing electrolyte levels; and supporting immune function.

As with nutritional supplementation, it is important to seek the guidance of a fully qualified professional when using herbal therapies. For both safety and efficacy, the selection of appropriate herbs, using pure unadulterated extracts, in suitable doses for each horse is essential. Furthermore, some herbs have restricted use in competition and are swabbable.

Conclusion

Despite being the most common muscle disorder of exercising horses, ER is a condition which the occurrence of can be reduced by effectively implementing a holistic approach. Adopting appropriate exercise, management, dietary and supplementation regimes are vital factors in the horse at risk of tying up.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

The most commonly used equine ulcer medications on the market generally come under names containing Gastro/Ulcer/Guard and contain the active ingredient omeprazole, which belongs to the class of drugs known as Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)^{[i] [ii]}. These drugs work by reducing (normal, healthy) gastric acid production by blocking the enzymes located in the parietal cells of the stomach wall, which are responsible for producing these essential digestive acids^[iii].

Pepsin, hydrochloric acid and other digestive enzymes are normal, healthy products of the equine digestive system and are essential for the proper digestion of food, as a line of defence against some pathogens, and maintaining healthy bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

By using omeprazole, normal digestion is inhibited. The digestion of protein and fats occurs primarily through the action of pepsin and hydrochloric acid, both of which are unable to be produced through the use of PPIs. Hydrochloric acid and pepsin are also essential to prevent excessive bacterial fermentation of soluble sugars in the stomach^[iv]. By blocking the production of these digestive acids, gastric nitrate rendering bacteria levels increase, as do carcinogenic nitrosamines in gastric juice. Without adequate digestive enzyme production, there is an increased risk of intestinal bacterial overgrowth and excessive gas production, which further inhibits digestion and can increase the risk of colic^[v].

Intestinal bacterial overgrowth is also associated with poor immune function, increased inflammation and increased risk of viral infections^{[vi] [vii]}. Stop for a minute and consider what this means for you as a trainer, owner or rider. For a racehorse this can mean increased risk of respiratory infection and increased susceptibility and slower healing from injury. This translates to more down time for the horse and likely lost revenue. For a stud manager, think of a foal who is stabled due to compromised health, is on multiple treatments and is given omeprazole as a precautionary measure. The foal’s ability to be nourished by it’s mother’s milk and therefore grow and thrive has been impeded; it’s ability to further fight infection has been reduced; and its risk of developing diarrhoea has increased. For a horse with an inflammatory condition such as osteoarthritis owners are constantly doing all they can to reduce inflammation. Therefore, consider the increased likelihood of lameness and joint destruction associated with elevated inflammatory mediators, as a by product of using PPIs.

Omeprazole is commonly co-prescribed with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) such as phenylbutazone (bute) and flunixin meglumine (Banamine). Most people are well aware that the use of NSAIDs commonly induces gastro-duodenal injury and can be a causative factor of GIT bleeding and ulcers. Many horse people take a proactive approach and thus use omeprazole as a believed preventative measure to avoid these side effects. Animal research has clearly demonstrated that PPIs do not prevent the development of these undesirable side effects, instead actually exacerbating NSAID-induced intestinal damage^[viii].

Human studies have also shown that the use of omeprazole may increase the risk of bone fractures^{[ix] [x]}. Again, think of this in practical terms: Many trainers treat their racehorses daily with some form of ulcer medication, believing that they are taking a proactive approach. Now consider the increased risk of fracture.

PPIs also decrease intra-gastric vitamin C levels and may increase serum cortisol levels^[xi]. Consistently elevated cortisol levels can lead to reduced performance, poor immune function and delayed recovery. Vitamin C is absolutely essential for a multitude of functions including: immune health; healing; collagen production; bone health and growth; nutrient absorption; healthy hoof growth; iron absorption; sperm motility; and regulating cortisol levels. Therefore, regardless of the discipline your horse is involved in, and its life stage, this is an important factor.

Evidence suggests that long-term use of omeprazole is associated with vitamin B12, iron, magnesium and calcium deficiencies, through altered metabolism and absorption^[xii]. Amongst other things, these are nutrients essential for energy production; musculoskeletal health; red blood cell production; immune function; growth and performance^[xiii].

The effects of fatigue are an important concern for horses competing across all disciplines. Omeprazole may be a significant cause of fatigue, not only through altered nutrient status as outlined above, but also through direct effect on proton pumps throughout the body. Proton pumps are present in just about every cell in the body, and whilst omeprazole is designed to interact with proton pumps in the stomach, research suggests that its actions are non-specific: it can effect all proton pumps in the body^[xiv]. Given this, PPIs have the ability to hamper mitochondrial function, leading to a reliance on anaerobic systems for energy production, leading to rapid fatigue^[xv].

So what can you do to optimise your horse’s GIT health?

Naturopathically, there are many beneficial herbal, nutritional and management strategies that can be employed to help both prevent and treat ulcers, in addition to achieving optimal GIT health. Therapeutics prescribed and treatment aims differ between cases and depend upon the individual horse and the circumstances. When the most appropriate treatments are professionally selected and prescribed, they will benefit the horse’s overall health, yielding favourable results without the negative side effects of omeprazole.

Conclusion

It is extremely important to consider the following questions in relation to the use of any treatment for your horse:

• What is this treatment specifically for?
• What treatment aims will this drug/supplement/additive support?
• What is necessitating this treatment? Are there practical management or dietary steps that can be employed to reduce the perceived need for this treatment?
• What are the potential risks associated with this treatment?
• What are the potential benefits associated with this treatment?
• What alternatives are available to this treatment? Are they safer? More effective? More relevant?
• Am I prescribing this treatment ‘just because’ or ‘just in case’?

If you cannot confidently answer all of the above questions, then seek the professional advice of those that can. We all want what is best for our horses, and it is sad (and expensive) when we are employing methods that may not only be ineffective for our horse’s ‘problem’ at hand, but cause further negative health implications.

References

^[i] Merial 2014, GastroGard (omeprazole) inhibits acid production at the source, viewed 14th March 2017, www.ulcergard.com

^[ii] Thomson, A et al. 2010, Safety of the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors, World Journal of Gastroenterology, vol.16, no.19, pp.2323-30.

^[iii] Marks, J 2017, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), viewed 14th March 2017,  www.medicinenet.com

^[iv] Cubbit, T 2010, The horse’s digestive system, Hygain, viewed 31st March 2017, hygain.com.au

^[v] Fujimori, S 2015, What are the effects of proton pump inhibitors on the small intestine?, World J Gastroenterol. v.21, no.22, pp.6817-9.

^[vi]Wilhelm, S et al 2013, Perils and Pitfalls of Long-term Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitors, Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol,vol.6, no.4 pp.443-451. 

^[vii] Dukowicz, A et al 2007, Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: A Comprehensive Review, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, vol.3, no.2, pp.112-22.

^[viii] Wallace, J et al. 2011,Proton pump inhibitors exacerbate NSAID-induced small intestinal injury by inducing dysbiosis, Gastroenterology, vol. 141, no.14, pp.1314-22.

^[ix] FDA 2016, Possible Increased Risk of Bone Fractures With Certain Antacid Drugs, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, viewed 14th March 2017, www.fda.gov

^[x]Wilhelm, S et al 2013, Perils and Pitfalls of Long-term Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitors, Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol,vol.6, no.4 pp.443-451. 

^[xi] Heidelbaugh, J 2013,Proton pump inhibitors and risk of vitamin and mineral deficiency: evidence and clinical implications, Ther Adv Drug Saf, vol.4, no.3, pp.125–33.

^[xii] Heidelbaugh, J 2013,Proton pump inhibitors and risk of vitamin and mineral deficiency: evidence and clinical implications, Ther Adv Drug Saf, vol.4, no.3, pp.125–33.

^[xiii] UHN Daily 2016, Don’t Ignore The Health Hazards of Proton Pump Inhibitors, viewed 3rd April 2017, universityhealthnews.com

^[xiv] Mattsson, J et al 1991,Omeprazole and bafilomycin, two proton pump inhibitors: differentiation of their effects on gastric, kidney and bone H(+)-translocating ATPases, Biochem Biophys Acta, vol. 1065, no.2, pp.261-8.

^[xv] Kresser, C 2016, The Dangers of Proton Pump Inhibitors, viewed 4th April 2017, www.chriskresser.com

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

In barn settings, ammonia is produced when the urea in urine hydrolyses (breaks down) through the action of the enzyme urease. Urease is a protein found in bacteria associated with faeces and stable flooring materials that have been fouled with faeces.

Ammonia can cause inflammation and irritation of both the upper and lower airways and can lead to the development of pulmonary oedema. Horses which are stabled have demonstrated more signs of respiratory inflammation than horses turned out at pasture.

Ammonia sets up an inflammatory cascade in the respiratory tract: increasing mucous production; interfering with the action of cilia (microscopic hairs which line the airways and help to prevent dust and debris from going further down the respiratory tract); and adversely affect immune function and health in the horse.

The negative effects of ammonia are further compounded by poor ventilation in the barn, dust and other particulates inhaled by the horse.

The good news is there are many practical strategies which can be employed to help reduce ammonia build-up in the stable:

• Provide excellent barn ventilation and where possible, avoid closing up the barn.
• Ensure stalls are cleaned once or twice daily to remove all urine-soaked bedding. Ensure stalls are stripped at least twice weekly.
• Ensure horses are removed from stalls whilst mucking and cleaning to minimise exposure to ammonia gases that are stirred up with pitching the bedding and raking.
• Use highly absorbent bedding materials.
• Mix an ammonia-neutralising product with clean bedding.
• Provide good drainage in stables and barn aisle ways to facilitate exit of urine. If matting is used in stalls, regularly clean under the mats when possible.
• Open windows where possible.
• As much as possible, keep horses outside or turn them out regularly to offer a clean air environment.

Treating horses with specific therapeutic herbs and nutrients can help to reduce inflammation and mucous production, in addition to supporting immune function. The most effective results are obtained however, when therapeutic intervention is used in conjunction with addressing the causative factors (such as ammonia and environments high in dust and other particulates). If the cause(s) is/are not addressed, then the initiating factor(s) of the irritation remain….

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

The quality of these supplements and ingredients contained within them vary greatly. Many contain nutritional and/or herbal constituents such as: magnesium, tryptophan, B group vitamins, chamomile and valerian.

But do these actually work?….

Supplementation is only advisable where there is an understanding of how they will help achieve specific therapeutic treatment aims. They should not be used to replace poor management practices. Before using a calming supplement, the following needs to be asked and addressed: does the horse have good gastric health; is the horse being exercised frequently; is the horse in pain; does the saddle fit correctly; do the horse and rider capabilities match; is the rider relaxed when riding? Without addressing primary root causes, truly effective results will never be obtained by any supplement. Any benefit derived from the supplement will be a poor ‘band-aid’ fix.

For a supplement to be truly effective, it needs to be given in sufficient quantities (often, to achieve a therapeutic effect, the actual amount of the supplement required by the horse is much greater than the dose suggested on the label.) It also needs to be given in a form which the horse can readily digest, absorb and metabolise. It needs to contain sufficient ‘active constituents’ (the actual parts of the supplement which exert a biological effect). Many commonly available products, (especially those with herbal ingredients), actually have minute amounts of these very important active constituents.

For racehorses and performance horses/ponies competing at a high level, the use of specific herbs are not permitted in competition. Many of these herbs are those commonly used in calming products.

When selecting a supplement, the question needs to be asked ‘why are you adding it?’. Have you adequately identified and addressed all possible reasons as to why you feel your horse needs it?

Supplements should only be added to the diet when you can confidently answer the questions: why you are using them; what specific modes of action they are targeting; and what therapeutic goals will they achieve?

Specifically indicated nutrients and herbs can be extremely valuable to use in some cases of anxious or stressed horses. The correct selection and and application of appropriate herbs and nutrients is key to efficacy: always remembering that they do not replace good feeding, riding and management practices.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Whenever any medication is used, the systemic effects the drug has on the horse should always be considered.

Adverse effects of glucocorticoids are well known, yet we don’t always stop to think what this can mean for the horse in front of us. The immunosuppressive effect of this class of drugs has been demonstrated to predispose horses to bacterial and/or fungal infections, decrease wound healing and increase the risk of insulin-resistant laminitis. Other less severe but important adverse effects include muscle wasting, hyperglycaemia (high blood glucose levels), polyuria (excessive urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst) and gastric ulcers.

Corticosteroids also effect the nutritional status of the horse, as they influence the synthesis, absorption and/or excretion of key nutrients including: zinc, magnesium, calcium, selenium, vitamin C and vitamin D.

Horses receiving glucocorticoids are known to have decreased immune response to infection and vaccines. Whilst some conditions may necessitate the use of these drugs, in the best interests of the horse’s health, performance (physical and/or reproductive) and wellbeing- addressing WHY the drugs are needed in the first place is paramount. Should the use of glucocorticoids be strongly indicated, then concurrently addressing specific nutrient requirements is paramount.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

A vital consideration in bone and joint health is bone density. Bone density refers to the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue and plays a significant factor in bone strength and durability (and hence resistance to injury).

Many factors influence bone density- and many of these factors can be positively or negatively influenced by feeding, management practices and medication use. Put simply, owners and caretakers of horses have the ability to positively or negatively influence the bone density and hence resilience and strength of a horse’s bones….

Sufficient minerals and vitamins in a horse’s diet, in appropriate proportions are important. These include (but are not limited to): calcium, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin D, copper, magnesium, manganese, vitamin K. Appropriate energy availability is also crucial in helping ensure adequate bone development.

Many medications have the ability to negatively influence bone density through various mechanisms: increasing the excretion of key minerals needed for bone structure; altering the gastrointestinal microflora balance (in turn impairing the body’s ability to synthesise some key vitamins needed for bone health); and altering the absorption of essential minerals for bone health.

Keeping horses in stables/box stalls is an often overlooked consideration in regards to bone health. Several studies have documented a substantial decrease in bone mineral content in horses kept in stables/ box stalls.

Think about foals, weanlings and yearlings, confined to stables in order to ‘keep them out of the elements’ or for sales preparations. These horses are going through crucial stages of bone development and laying down bone mass. The practice of keeping them stabled may hamper their ability to be strong, resilient performance horses.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

In the case of race and performance horses, levothyroxine is commonly supplemented to help strip weight off horses and/or to help horses ‘perk up’. Yet research indicates that in fit horses- supplementing with thyroxine actually resulted in the horses fatiguing quicker. Its use was also associated with an increased risk of cardiac arrhythmia- hardly performance enhancing! In cases of respiratory infection, the use of levothyroxine may actually prolong the infection.

Supplementation of synthetic hormones in horses is not something which should be taken lightly. True hypothyroidism in horses is a rare condition- and when it does occur, reasons as to WHY it has occurred should be addressed first, or in conjunction with appropriate treatment. Thorough assessment of thyroid function MUST extend beyond just testing thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Testing T4 levels alone (or in conjunction with TSH) is also insufficient to provide reliable information to determine the true state of thyroid function. T3 also needs to be included. As does a thorough physical assessment and case history, analysis of the horse’s diet/nutritional intake, current medication and/or supplement use.

It also needs to be remembered that abnormal thyroid hormone concentrations can occur after a high grain diet meal, after extensive travel, training stress, or if a horse is ill.

In cases of sub-clinical hypothyroidism, specific nutritional insufficiencies/deficiencies are commonly implicated. Similarly overtraining without sufficient rest/recovery/adaptation periods can lead to impaired thyroid function. No amount of levothyroxine supplementation can rectify these performance and health limiting factors- thus without addressing the causes, the problems remain.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Stables are full of tiny particles that can infiltrate and subsequently irritate their respiratory system. Barn air quality is difficult to visually assess: the particles that irritate the airways are generally microscopic in size.

Fortunately, there are many feeding, management and supplemental strategies which can help prevent the narrowing and spasms of the air passages (bronchoconstriction and bronchospasm) and excessive mucus production associated with Equine Asthma Syndrome.

Before or in addition to the use of strategic supplementation, there are three super simple steps any stable can implement to improve the respiratory health of their horses:

• Only muck stalls out when horses are not in the barn
• Avoid the use of blower vacs in barns.
• Only sweep the barn when horses are out.

Doing these things whilst the horses are out (working and/or turned out) and allowing at least half an hour after completing the above tasks before the horses are brought back in will help to reduce the particulates they inhale. The result? Healthier, less irritated airways and horses who are better able to perform.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Whilst no nutritional supplement will prevent estrus in the mare/filly: signs, symptoms and behaviour may be able to be preferentially modified. Modulating specific hormonal, neurotransmitter and inflammatory pathways and correcting nutritional insufficiencies can have a significant impact. This is a key area where therapeutic nutritional intervention differs distinctly in just meeting a horse’s daily nutrient requirements.

Time and energy can be wasted on being angry/frustrated by the current rulings, or minds can be opened to explore other options, gaining knowledge and tools to use to one’s advantage. 

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Whilst iron deficiency in humans is an all too common problem, in our horses it is fairly rare. When it occurs, it is not usually due to an insufficient intake of iron in the diet. Instead it generally occurs due to low-grade, longterm blood loss (the causes of which deserve to be written about in a separate post). Losing large amounts of blood in an acute injury/health complication are also a cause.

One of the most commonly seen scenarios I see in practice is when trainers and riders give horses iron supplements in response to a horse performing poorly or a horse which has had an infection (viral or bacterial).  Iron is perhaps the most important micronutrient required for bacteria to proliferate and cause disease. Viruses also depend on iron in order to efficiently replicate.

It is important to remember too that iron is needed by inflammatory cells. Any condition a horse has where there is significant inflammation (Equine Asthma, placentitis, sesamoiditis, ligament or tendon damage, endometritis- just a few examples!) could be further worsened by iron supplementation.

Takeaway messages:

• By supplementing iron in the poor performing horse/horse that has a ‘virus’ or infection, or any significant inflammatory process, chances are you are making the condition worse.
• ‘Natural’ supplements aren’t always safe/appropriate/indicated
• Get professional advice to help identify and address the cause(s) of the poor performance/challenging health condition in your horse.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

Would you still give them such substances if you knew that it significantly decreased muscle mass, strength and performance, and impaired recovery?

Animal research has demonstrated that manipulating hormone levels to keep oestrogen levels low, results in decreased muscle mass and strength and an increased risk of muscular and bone injuries.

Altrenogest and synthetic progestin products suppresses oestrus (and thus normal peaks of oestrogen production) in mares and fillies.

By artificially manipulating their cycle, not only are you potentially increasing injury risk, but it is likely that you are not allowing fillies and mares to realise their full athletic potential.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.

To ‘prevent’ this problem, many co-administer NSAIDs with ulcer medications (primarily those that contain omeprazole). Omeprazole belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Scientific evidence has clearly demonstrated that the combined use of NSAIDs and PPIs increases the injurious effects of NSAIDs on the intestinal mucosa. Put simply, combining NSAIDs and ulcer products is likely to result in doing more harm to your horse than the use of NSAIDs alone.

If the use of NSAIDs are necessitated, then dietary, management and complementary treatment strategies should be put in place in order to promote GI and overall health in your horse.

Optim Equine

Camilla Whishaw is a highly regarded, experienced horsewoman and naturopath, helping to holistically treat and manage a broad range of equine health conditions and injuries, with a passion for mare and stallion fertility.

As a world-renowned practitioner, presenter, author, and consultant in the field of Equine Naturopathy, Camilla shares her knowledge through keynote presentations, interviews, lectures, panel sessions, and workshop training.