Equine Probiotics and Prebiotics

“Let your food be your medicine”, said Hippocrates. Throughout history, plants and natural ingredients have been our medicine. Similarly, equine probiotics and prebiotics can aid with the treatment of a variety of common issues including stomach ulcers in horses.

These ingredients have a direct effect on digestion attained via absorption within the digestive system and a direct action achieved through tissue contact in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract is central to systemic health and a fundamental linkage exists between the gut, mental and physical health.  

Through my experience and observing the results, I passionately believe that optimum gut health is the driving force behind good health and strong performance. This is why I've combined a broad variety of horse-specific probiotics and prebiotics in Equidae's GUTonic to assist with the treatment of stomach ulcers in horses.

What is the difference between equine probiotic and prebiotics?

Prebiotics are defined as non-digestible substances that act as food for the gut microbiota. Essentially, prebiotics stimulate growth or activity of certain healthy bacteria within the GI tract that live in your horse’s digestive system.

So, while the good bacteria themselves are probiotics, equine prebiotics are the food we feed our gut flora. When taken together; prebiotics and probiotics form a symbiotic relationship, allowing them to function at an optimal level.

Each individual yeast strain has a specific genetic make-up and its own characteristics. Therefore, at Equidae Botanical Horse Care, we suggest a broad spectrum life and inactivated yeast strain combination, blend together with some herbal extracts to form the ultimate equine digestive feed supplement for everyday use.

What are the benefits and trial reviews when using a good quality equine probiotic and prebiotic?

Various studies have shown it enhances the digestive microbiota balance and function, resulting in improved performance, digestive health (acidosis prevention as horse ulcer treatment) and well-being. 

• Manure colour and consistency improved (harder manure after antibiotics).
• Managing the clinical symptoms associated with gastric ulcers in horses.
• Microbial count and concentration were higher compared to before treatment.
• Improve growth and development for foals.
• Optimises fibre degradation.
• Buffers gut acidity.
• Stabilises the hindgut and reduces the risk of acidosis.
• Promotes condition and vitality.
• Improve feed digestibility and utilisation
• Beneficial in Laminitis/overweight horses.
• Protecting the stomach ulcers in horses and reducing gastric discomfort.