I’ve found some great joint supplement deals while looking for the best Amazon Prime Day deals for equestrians! What’s more, the supplement my horse has used for years is 25% off, so I’m a happy camper.

The best joint supplements contain ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid. The three best Amazon Prime Day joint supplement deals contain all these and more.

My horse, Pip, is retired, but even though he isn’t in work he is still on YuMove. Right now, there’s a Prime Day saving to be made, but if you commit to a subscription from YuMove, you can save 50% on your first two orders. If you’ve already ordered twice, this Amazon deal will allow you further savings.

Don’t forget, you will need to sign up to Amazon Prime to access these discounts.

Amazon Prime Day joint supplement deals

• Like these joint supplement deals? Subscribe to the Horse & Hound website for unlimited access to product reviews and buying advice

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The best skin and coat supplements for horses provide additional nutritional to support healthy skin and promote a shiny coat. Keeping your horse’s skin healthy is important as it’s the body’s barrier to the harmful outside world – it protects your horse from his environment, including sunlight, insects, bacteria and bad weather.

Having healthy skin is a great advantage especially if you bath your horse regularly, as this puts the skin at increased risk, or he is prone to itchy skin. Additionally, coat condition is a sign of overall health, so if you can get your horse looking shiny you know you’re at least headed in the right direction.

Feeding the correct supplements ensures that your horse is receiving the nutritional support he needs to maintain good health. Here is a selection of the best skin and coat supplements for horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

Best skin and coat supplements for horses

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed a loading dose, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

Revive ’N’ Shine supports and maintains healthy skin and coat condition throughout the year, promoting a glossy coat and a thicker mane. It also contains garlic to keep flies away.

How to choose the best skin and coat supplements for horses

Look out for skin and coat supplements that include the following ingredients:

• Omega-3 – which helps regulate the skin’s oil production and so prevents dry skin and dull coats
• Omega-6 – which helps the body respond appropriately to inflammation
• Biotin – which supports keratin production in the hair and skin

Consider the form the supplement takes – supplements can come in liquid, powder and pellet forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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By NAF

Dr Nicholas Larkins, the vet, researcher and foundational force behind supplement company NAF died on 29 January following a short illness, aged 78.

Born in July 1947 to Bill and Kitty Larkins, Nick spent his early years in Leura in Australia’s Blue Mountains. He was educated at St Ignatius’ College, Riverview, in Sydney, then the University of New South Wales to pursue veterinary science. From the beginning he showed the hallmarks that would define his life’s work: a scientific mind, fascination with the natural world and an instinctive empathy for animals and people.

He met Miranda in 1979 and the pair married in 1981 and embarked on extensive travels through South America and the United States. Their time working in veterinary practices from Beverly Hills to Santa Ynez to Virginia broadened Nick’s professional horizons and forged lifelong friendships.

In 1985 Nick and Miranda returned to the UK, settling in Dorset where Nick established his own veterinary practice. In the late 1980s a chance meeting with Richard Cleeve led to one of the most significant partnerships in the equine nutrition world.

Nick’s collaboration with Richard began with a shared passion for innovation. At a time when targeted nutritional support for horses was still in its infancy, Nick championed ingredients such as MSM and glucosamine, now staples of modern equine care but novel in the UK market at the time. He was drawn to unusual ingredients and novel mechanisms, always asking how horses could be supported better, more safely and more holistically, taking them back to nature.

His scientific brilliance and relentless curiosity helped shape what became NAF, Nick working alongside Richard for nearly 35 years.

He is survived by Miranda and the many friends, colleagues and riders who will continue to feel the impact of his work for decades to come.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Are you looking for a calmer to offer quick and effective relief for an anxious or excitable horse? Here are the best instant calmers for horses below. These are available in paste or gel form and are administered via a large syringe into the horse’s mouth, which makes them perfect for a one-off stressful occasion.

If you’re looking for a calmer that’s fed daily, check out our best daily calmers for horses. They all have the same aim of reducing acute stress and overall anxiety, which should allow your horse to learn better, be more manageable and lower their risk of stress-related disease.

Best instant calmers for horses

It’s designed for use before competition or stressful events and results are usually seen within an hour. Can be used in addition to SuperCalm powder or SuperCalm liquid.

When should I use an instant calmer?

Any change of routine, such as your horse starting box rest, or novel situations can bring new stresses with it. In these situations, the best instant calmers for horses can help to “take the edge off”, leaving you with a more relaxed horse that may be easier to handle. Some are designed to work alongside a daily calming supplement, while others are effective on their own.

How to choose an instant calmer

We’d usually suggest considering the form a supplement takes, but these all come in paste form. Instead it’s worth considering the time each one takes to act as although they’re billed as “instant calmers for horses”, most take at least an hour or two to enter your horse’s system.

Cost is another consideration – some of these syringes deliver multiple doses so are better value for money if they work for your horse. You’re also better off buying multipacks where available if you’re likely to require the calmer on multiple occasions.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

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Do you think your horse could benefit from one of the best calmers for horses? This guide looks at the best daily calming supplements and includes the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products and RRPs so that you can compare your options. Horse calmers are specially formulated and contain ingredients that may help to reduce and regulate your horse’s response to stress and the related behaviours.

If you’re looking for something to take a more immediate effect for a one-off upcoming event, check out our guide to the best instant calmers, which are designed to be administered as and when required.

Best daily calmers for horses

An advanced magnesium supplement that is easy and flexible to feed and can also be used to support the metabolism, facial nerves or muscle relaxation without compromising performance. Also available as a syringe paste.

This natural magnesium-free calming supplement combines seven herbs to help settle anxious, stressy horses, keeping them focused and calm, while also supporting good gut health.

A dried herbal blend suitable for horses and ponies prone to nervousness or excitability; including a blend of chamomile, lemon balm and vervain, which are renowned for their calming properties, while magnesium helps to support an even temperament. An ideal supplement for use when bringing a horse back into work.

Does my horse need a calming supplement?

Before you feed a calmer it is important to check that any change in your horse’s behaviour isn’t due to pain and discomfort. Get your horse’s teeth, back and saddle checked by a suitable, qualified professional to rule out any problems.

Changes of routine can bring new stresses with it. In these situations, calming supplements can help to “take the edge off”, leaving you with a more relaxed horse that will be safer to handle.

How to choose a calming supplement for horses

Most of the best calmers for horses are available in a powder or liquid form and they take time to build up in your horse’s system with the same overall aim of reducing acute stress and overall anxiety.

Despite lots of anecdotal evidence to support their effectiveness, there is limited scientific research into how calmers for horses and their active ingredients work. Popular ingredients include:

• magnesium, which is thought to produce an anxiety-reducing effect
• tryptophan — a building block of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter associated with lower levels of stress
• valerian, which is thought to reduce anxiety

Consider the form the supplement takes – calming supplements can come in liquid, powder and paste forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the horse calmers featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

Types of horse calmer

Some calmers for horses are instant or fast-acting — instant calmers are often in paste-form and administered via a large syringe into the horse’s mouth — while some of the best horse calmers take time to build up in your horse’s system, and are more likely to be in powder or liquid form.

They all have the same overall aim of reducing acute stress and overall anxiety, which should allow your horse to learn better and have a lower risk of stress-related disease.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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We’ve rounded up a selection of the best respiratory supplements for horses to help you support your horse’s breathing and airways.

They have all been specially formulated to support the respiratory system from within and come in a variety of forms, so there’s something to suit every fussy horse.

Best respiratory supplements for horses

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more in certain situations, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

This supplement provides fast, natural support to calm and soothe the delicate airways. It helps to maintain healthy respiration in horses exposed to dust, pollen and mould spores. It is fortified with liquorice, glycerine and aniseed for a highly palatable formulation.

How to choose the best respiratory supplement for horses

Look out for common ingredients that are found in respiratory and breathing supplements for horses, which include…

• herbs — many of which are known for soothing properties
• anti-oxidants, such as vitamin E, which protects against free radicals

Consider the form the supplement takes – breathing supplements for horses can come in liquid or powder forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

Do I need a breathing supplement for my horse?

There is always a challenge to your horse’s respiratory system — in the summer it’s pollen particles, while increased time in the stable in the winter exposes horses to more dust from forage and bedding.

There are a number of management practices you can put in place to reduce their exposure, but the best respiratory supplements for horses can also help to maintain healthy and clear airways, support the lungs’ natural defences, while also providing a soothing effect.

Coughing can be a sign of respiratory disease so if your horse develops a cough it’s wise to consult your vet.

Can I compete if I am giving my horse a respiratory supplement?

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements – respiratory supplements or otherwise – you use do not contain any prohibited substances. You can also look for the BETA NOPS logo, which shows that the manufacturers are part of a scheme that prevents use of naturally occurring prohibited substances.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Digestive supplements and gut balancers for horses support the digestive system to help them cope with a number of transitions throughout the year, such as increased turnout in the spring, change of grazing quality in the winter or the introduction of a different type of forage to the diet. These changes can leave some horses’ digestive systems struggling, leading to a reduction in efficiency, loose droppings and other digestive upsets.

Often containing soothing herbs as well as pre- and probiotics, these supplements aim to maintain a healthy digestive system and promote a normal population of bacteria to make sure your horse is getting the most out of what he eats while keeping him comfortable.

Best gut balancers for horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best gut balancers for horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require loading measures and some horses will require a higher daily measure, which will increase the cost per day, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

What are gut balancers?

Most gut balancers are formulated to help maintain a stable environment in the gut, which keeps digestion healthy, regular and efficient, despite changes in diet and environment. Some digestive supplements target other specific areas of the digestive system, such as buffering stomach acid, so we’ve rounded these up in a guide to the best gastric supplements for horses.

How to choose the best gut balancer

Knowing why you want to feed your horse a digestive supplement will help you choose the right one for him.

Common ingredients of gut balancers include…

• probiotics, which are often referred to as “good bacteria”
• prebiotics, which are the “food” for probiotics, helping them to work effectively

Consider the form the supplement takes – digestive supplements can come in liquid, powder and pellet forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

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We saw this range of supplements from Spillers on sale for the last Amazon Prime Day event in July, but they’re now they are offering an even bigger discount of up to 30% off for Amazon Prime Big Deals day. And if you’re a regular purchase you can save even more by signing up to Amazon’s Subscribe & Save.

This new range of pelleted supplements from Spillers are specifically formulated to meet the needs of horses, while also being palatable and low-to-no waste, which is why I’ve picked it out as one of the best Prime Day deals for horse owners.

Spillers supplement deals: the full range

There are six supplements across this new range to support horses in myriad ways. Crafted alongside veterinary and nutrition experts, the pellets come in 30%-recycled packaging and have fully traceable ingredients.

What’s more, each bag includes a handy pop-up scoop for easy measuring out. Reviewers also noted that they especially like the range’s palatability and Spillers’ speedy delivery times.

Breaking down the savings

The entire range is currently discounted with savings of up to 30% off at Amazon and each bag has 30 days’ supply for a 500kg horse.

Pricing varies across the range, so I’ve broken down the daily costs for each supplement below, before and after the discount.

Spillers Hoof Health – was £1.20/day, now £0.84

Spillers Instant Energy – was £1.57/day, now £1.16

Spillers Ventil-ate – was £1.63/day, now £1.22

Spillers Calm – was £1.63/day, now £1.22

Spillers Ulca Ease – was £1.67/day, now £1.25

Spillers Flex – was £1.63/day, now £1.22

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Performance and energy supplements for horses can have a wide variety of purposes. A common aim is the support of energy production and metabolism, which means it will help your horse use the energy available to him in the most efficient way so that he can produce his best possible performance.

Some of the best energy supplements come in an paste form to use for a short-term boost – much like the best instant calmers – while others are designed to be fed daily and used over a longer-period of time. Here is a selection of the best energy supplements for horses that are currently available…

Best energy supplements for horses: what are your options?

NB: Cost per day/use has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in medium work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available volume. Some products require you to feed more in certain situations, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger volume will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

‘Instant’ energy boosters for horses

NAF EnerG Shot

Form: Syringe paste

Sizes: 3 x 30ml

RRP: £26.99

Single measure: 30ml

Cost per use: £8.99

This is a concentrated nutritional blend of essential amino acids that supports fast release energy metabolism to support the increased need for energy at times of peak performance. EnerG Shot is designed for use when needed, so is ideal for competition or training and should be fed 1½–2 hours before required.

Equine America Xtra Boost Paste

Form: Syringe paste

Sizes: 30ml

RRP: £15.99

Single measure: 10ml

Cost per use: £5.33

This paste is formulated to support energy levels. It should be fed on the day of the event and the two days prior at a maximum of 10ml per day.

Science Supplements EnerGex Syringe

Form: Syringe paste

Sizes: 60g

RRP: £9.99

Single measure: 60g

Cost per use: £9.99

This safe source of carbohydrate can be used before, during and following exercise to support energy delivery, or as an energy booster in lethargic horses. If used prior to exercise it should be administered 15 mins before the start.

Cavalor An Energy Boost

Form: Syringe paste

Sizes: 50g

RRP: £14.16

Single measure: 50g

Cost per use: £14.16

This oral paste is a mix of high quality electrolytes, vitamins, amino acids, sugars and salt, which has been developed to give an extra energy boost before and during intense work and to aid speedy recovery. It should be administered 1–2 hours prior to exercise.

Foran Equine Pre-Fuel Gel

Form: Syringe paste

Sizes: 60ml, 3 x 60ml

RRP: £14.95

Single measure: 60ml

Cost per use: £14.95

This rapid energy paste contains essential BCAA’s (branched-chain amino acids) to maximise athletic performance, but is also available as a liquid for long-term use. It should be administered 1-2 hours prior to exercise and can also be used the day after for horses that need to recover and perform again within a short time frame.

Premier Performance Energy Cookies

Form: Cookie

Sizes: 5, 10, 15, 30, 240 or 600 cookies

RRP: £8.40 for 5

Daily measure: 1-2 cookies

Cost per day: £1.68 – £3.36

These convenient cookies are used to encourage a more energetic and active performance, and to support increased stamina, strength and recovery without causing short term fizz. They can be fed before (30mins prior), during and after competition, and two cookies can be fed for intense exercise. Also available as a powder.

Daily energy supplements

NAF EnerG

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 2l, 5l

RRP: £29.99 for 2l

Daily measure: 30ml

Cost per day: £0.45

Fortified with vitamins and trace elements, this fast-acting formula provides controlled levels of iron, copper and zinc, which helps to optimise energy metabolism.

Spillers Instant Energy

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £46.99

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £1.57

A unique formula containing rapid and moderately available carbohydrate sources and ginseng which is known as a ‘feel good’ herb, to encourage a focused and energetic performance.

Science Supplements EnerGex

Form: Powder

Sizes: 2kg

RRP: £39.99

Daily measure: 60–80g

Cost per day: From £1.20

This can be used before, during and after exercise to support energy delivery. It can also be used as an energy booster in lethargic horses and to maintain blood glucose levels in situations where food intake is decreased, such as during travelling or when appetite is reduced. It is low-glycaemic, which means it leads to a slower rate of glucose entry into the blood, avoiding high peaks and sudden drops in blood glucose levels, which leads to a more balanced and prolonged energy supply.

Equine America Xtra Boost Hemogen

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l

RRP: £42.99

Daily measure: 30ml

Cost per day: £1.29

A complementary feed supplement that supports healthy red blood production for horses in hard work. It contains a specialist and highly absorbable form of iron, which is supported by B vitamins and accompanied by active water soluble vitamins and minerals to maximise energy and stamina.

Global Herbs Restore

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 500ml, 1l, 5l

RRP: £27.95 for 500ml

Daily measure: 10ml

Cost per day: £0.56

This quick-acting formula helps to maintain peak condition, support efficient digestion and bring out natural shine. It contains specific liver tonic herbs that target metabolism. Also available as a powder.

Maxavita Maxapower

Form: Powder

Sizes: 900g

RRP: £29.85

Daily measure: 25g

Cost per day: £0.83

This muscle and energy supplement is full of essential amino acids to encourage muscle growth and strength, in addition to supporting stamina and recovery. It is designed to support and maintain healthy circulation and promote optimal muscle function in hard-working horses.

Equitop Myoplast

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 1.5kg

RRP: £87.83

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £2.93

A unique amino acid supplement specifically designed to support lean muscle growth, which helps horses to respond and cope with the demands of training.

Synovium Red & Gold

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l, 5l

RRP: £22.50 for 1l

Daily measure: 60ml

Cost per day: £1.35

This helps provide lasting performance when it is most needed – suitable for use at competitions or when extra performance is required.

Rowen Barbary Power

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 2kg, 5kg, 10kg

RRP: £14.55 for 1kg

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £0.73

Targeted energy-boosting powder for performance horses in moderate to hard work, or those with low energy or appetite. It optimises stamina, recovery, and immune health with vitamins, essential amino acids, and high antioxidants.

How to choose the best energy supplements for horses

The best energy supplement for your horse all depends on what you’re trying to achieve. Some supplements are formulated to give an instant, one-off energy boost – these are usually in syringe paste form – while others, however, are designed to provide a daily boost. Other performance supplements don’t target energy production specifically, but instead they provide nutritional support for horses with increased energy requirements. They are formulated to optimise energy efficiency, support cellular functions, and promote muscle growth and repair.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances. It’s also wise to trial using an energy supplement at home, rather than giving it a go for the first time at a competition, so that you know how your horse is likely to react.

If you are looking at feeding an energy supplement to your horse, it’s important to acknowledge that while it can help the horse to function and perform at his best, it’s not going to turn him into a world-beater overnight or solve any underlying veterinary problems.

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Salt licks for horses are an easy and convenient way to make sure your horse always has access to salt as it’s a really important part of his diet. They are also frequently used as part of some of the best stable toys to help prevent boredom.

Sodium is one of the main electrolytes that horses need and if their levels become low, their body will signal the horse to avoid drinking, which could lead to dehydration. Providing the right amount will help your horse’s body to function at its best – it works with chloride to aid nerve and muscle function – particularly at times of stress, such as during performance or hot weather. Some horses are good at regulating their salt intake and will only consume what their body needs, but others will over-consume or completely ignore their salt lick, so it’s wise to monitor your horse’s intake.

We’ve rounded up a great selection of licks on the market and grouped them into the following categories:

• Himalayan salt licks
• Flavoured licks
• Field licks

Himalayan salt licks for horses

Lincoln Himalayan Salt Lick

Sizes: 1kg, 2kg, 3kg

Provides pure natural rock salts, wrapped and complete with rope.

NAF Himalayan Salt Lick

Sizes: 750g, 2kg, 4.25kg

Offers the purest form of salt, naturally mined to support your horse’s needs to instinctively self-supplement. Each salt lick is ready to hang and includes a rope.

Hilton Herbs Black Himalayan Salt Lick

Sizes: 1kg

A natural Ayurvedic product made by combining pink Himalayan salt with herbs and spices, including harad, which gives it a dark colour and sulphurous flavour. Its properties help support your horse with balanced digestion, healthy eyesight, and skin.

Likit Himalayan Rock Salt

Sizes: 1kg

100% natural himalayan rocksalt, specially shaped to be used in conjunction with the Likit holders or Boredom Breaker. Weather resistant and can be left with your horse to ‘self dose’.

Redpost Himalayan Salt Lick

Sizes: 1kg, 3kg

A pure and natural form of salt which is convenient for allowing your horse free access to self supplement, both in the field and stable. Available in two sizes to suit your horse’s needs.

Flavoured licks for horses

Flavoured licks are fun for owners and keep things interesting for horses. Many are compatible with the stable toys, which makes them ideal for keeping horses entertained while they’re inside.

Rockies Flavoured Health Lick

Flavours: Apple, carrot, cherry, garlic, or mint

Sizes: 2kg, 5kg

Unique flavouring, high purity minerals, and trace elements. This combination ensures that your horse will only consume as much as they need. For use all year round but especially during hotter months.

Likit Refill Flavoured Licks

Flavours: Wide choice

Sizes: 650g

These tasty licks are compatible with Likit holders and Boredom Breakers. Available in a huge variety of colours and flavours.

Horslyx Mini Licks

Flavours: Original, garlic, mint, pro digest, mobility or respiratory

Sizes: 650g

These licks can be held in your hand and are handy for distracting and practising stretches.

Little Likit Refill Flavoured Licks

Flavours: Wide choice

Sizes: 250g

These tasty licks are compatible with Likit holders and Boredom Breakers. Available in a huge variety of colours and flavours.

Bizzy Bites Lick Refill

Flavours: Original, garlic, mint or apple

Sizes: 1kg

To be used with the Bizzy Bites toy that can be hung, wall mounted or used on the floor.

Field licks for horses

Paddock licks typically contain more vitamins and minerals than a standard salt lick. They are a great way to ensure your horse is getting some extra nutrients, particularly if he doesn’t receive a hard feed. They are harder to monitor for intake, and if your horse shares a field there’s no way of knowing who is benefitting – apart from perhaps a telltale sticky muzzle.

KM Elite Ultimate Oil Lick

Sizes: 7.5kg

This vitamin, mineral and trace element lick is designed to support your horses’ diet throughout the year.

Likit Paddock Lick

Sizes: 8kg

This lick offers a broad spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, plus the added benefits of garlic, yeast and oils.

Dodson & Horrell Uniblock

Sizes: 12.5kg

This lick provides vitamins and minerals that are not always present in grazing.

SmartLick Original

Sizes: 12.5kg

This lick contains a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, plus a yeast-based prebiotic to support beneficial intestinal bacteria.

Simple System Salt Lick Tub

Sizes: 10kg

This lick comes in a reusable flexible tub to provide sodium and a top up of magnesium.

Horslyx Original Balancer

Sizes: 5kg, 15kg

Horslyx Original Balancer is a palatable, nutrient rich lick containing vitamins, minerals and trace elements to balance the deficiencies in forage and grazing. Also available in respiratory, mobility, pro digest and garlic varieties.

Saracen Pasture Lick

Sizes: 20kg

A highly palatable lick that is full of vitamins and minerals to help support your horse’s diet.

How to choose a salt lick

There are a few different types of salt to offer – the main ones are white, red or Himalayan.

White salt blocks contain sodium chloride and are a good place to start if you’ve not offered your horse a salt lick before. Red trace mineral blocks also contain copper, zinc, manganese, cobalt, iron and iodine – your horse might not need these, especially if he’s fed a complete feed or balanced diet, but he may prefer the taste and therefore it will encourage him to consume it.

Himalayan salt is sourced from the nutrient-rich water and soil found in the Himalayan mountains. This pink salt is high in calcium and may help to strengthen bones, joints, teeth and hooves.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Are you confused about the best electrolytes for horses, why they are important and how to ensure your horse has the right levels? Or are you looking for the best electrolyte product for your horse? Then we are here to help.

Electrolytes are commonly fed to horses, particularly in the summer months, but in order to get the best out of them, choose the right one and know how to feed them, it’s important to understand how they work.

Electrolytes for horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best electrolytes for horses on the market…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more with a higher workload, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

Electro Salts is a concentrated combination of the essential plasma salts combined with dextrose to aid efficient absorption. It should be fed following exertion, after heavy sweating or during periods of very hot weather, and can be given in the feed or dissolved in water.

This is rapidly absorbed to replace vital salts required for recovery and maintaining stamina. The peppermint-flavoured powder can be added to water or feed after sweating, during hot weather, exercise or in times of stress. Also available in powder form.

This balanced blend of the essential electrolytes will help keep competition horses performing at their best by maintaining correct muscle and nerve function for optimum health.

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals dissolved in the blood and tissues of the body, which carry a positive or negative charge and can bind with another ion to make a “salt”. They help to preserve the correct balance of fluids in the body’s cells and are involved in muscle function and the processing of wastes. Deficiencies cause dehydration, impaired performance and may exacerbate clinical problems such as azoturia.

The main electrolytes are:

• Sodium (Na+)
• Chloride (Cl−)
• Potassium (K+)
• Magnesium (Mg2+)
• Calcium (Ca2+)

Horses lose electrolytes daily through sweating, in urine and faeces. These losses can normally be replaced in the diet. Horses rely on sweating to control body temperature during exercise and it is generally accepted that 90% of a horse’s weight loss after exercise is due to sweating. It is important that this weight loss is monitored and the fluid and electrolyte losses replaced, otherwise poor performance will result.

During periods of exertion such as competition and training, electrolyte losses can be considerable, particularly during hot weather. Even under normal exercise conditions, a 500kg horse could lose 10 litres of sweat during two hours of exercise.

Signs of electrolyte deficiency in horses include:

• Dull coat
• Sunken eyes
• Depression
• Listlessness
• Poor performance
• Dark urine

How to provide electrolytes to horses

The horse’s body cannot retain water without the presence of electrolytes, so simply offering water after exercise, while important, will not fully rehydrate your horse. Electrolytes should be added to either the water or the feed.

Adding electrolytes to water to form an isotonic solution (a solution that contains the same electrolyte concentrations as that of the body fluids) will ensure that both fluid and electrolyte losses are replenished and the horse becomes quickly rehydrated. However, after prolonged sweating it will take several days of electrolyte supplementation to completely replenish losses.

Alternatively, if your horse is a poor drinker or there is no opportunity to replace fluid losses during the competition, electrolytes may be fed alongside a small amount of concentrate feed. Electrolyte pastes are also available. However, a large single dose can cause the horse to absorb water from the blood vessels surrounding the gut and actually worsen the effects of dehydration in the short term.

Sodium chloride (table salt) can be made available for the horse ad lib in the form of a salt lick, but intake should be monitored, particularly in hot weather, as evidence has shown horses do not naturally self regulate their intake. Alternatively feeding a tablespoon of table salt daily will ensure your horse receives sufficient sodium chloride.

Giving electrolytes to competition horses

The electrolytes most commonly used in supplements – sodium chloride, calcium carbonate and potassium chloride – are not included in the FEI Clean Sport prohibited substances list. Neither are other common ingredients, such as sodium bicarbonate or glucose.

Simple electrolyte supplements should, therefore, be safe for use in competition horses. However, it is advisable to check the label of any supplement or ask the manufacturer. For the full list of banned substances visit feicleansport.org

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Supplements to help joints keep working at their best: what’s on the market?

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

The best joint supplements for older horses provide additional nutritional support for normal and healthy joint function to help keep them in good working order, comfortable and moving at their best, enabling your horse to live a full and active life. Throughout your horse’s life, his musculoskeletal system and joints will be put to the test – and there’s a lot for your horse’s joints to contend with throughout the year.

In the winter, the increased likelihood of restricted turnout means they’re likely to be moving less and when this is combined with colder temperatures, stiffness is a common result. If the ground’s not hard then it’s wet, which can lead to more roadwork and increased concussive forces on the joint, too. Whereas in the summer hard ground is also unavoidable if you’re not confined to a school. Even if your horse is retired and able to live out full time, his joints – and the rest of his body – will require more support to maintain a good condition.

Best joint supplements for older horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best joint supplements for older horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more with a higher workload, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

NAF Five Star Superflex Senior

Form: Powder

Sizes: 660g, 1.98kg

RRP: £37.99 for 660g

Daily measure: 22g

Cost per day: £1.27

Five Star Superflex Senior is a unique formulation providing a high specification of key joint support nutrients as well as omega-3 fatty acids and naturally sourced antioxidants to support healthy, flexible joints in older horses that are still leading active lives.

YuMove Joint Care Plus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.8kg

RRP: £156.40

Daily measure: 40g

Cost per day: £3.47

This has 25% more MSM and glucosamine and 50% more green lipped mussel compared to the standard YuMove Horse formula, so it can offer extra joint support for stiffer, more senior horses.

BettaLife PharmaQuin Joint Complete HA Equine

Form: Powder

Sizes: 400g, 1kg, 2kg, 5kg

RRP: £42.50 for 400g

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £3.19

Formulated from the highest grade active ingredients with no fillers or bulking agents, containing glucosamine HCI, MSM and chondroitin in a 10:10:4 ratio.

Equinutritive Alpha Gold

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l, 2.5l, 5l

RRP: £32.99 for 1l

Daily measure: 30ml

Cost per day: £0.99

A 100% natural, turmeric based joint supplement to support hard-working, compromised or ageing joint. Contains turmeric, coconut oil, aloe vera and linseed oil.

Nutriscience Arthri Aid HA Powder

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.2kg, 3kg

RRP: £45.92 for 1.2kg

Daily measure: 15g

Cost per day: £0.57

This apple-flavoured powder includes glucosamine, MSM complex and hyaluronic acid for improved joint mobility. It’s a super-strength alternative to the regular Arthri Aid.

Equine America Buteless Super Strength

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.5kg, 5.5kg

RRP: £65.50 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £2.19

Described as the ultimate nutritional support for joints and muscles in older horses with significant wear and tear or needing help to maintain mobility. It includes powerful levels of natural plant-based ingredients including boswellia, yucca and turmeric, as well as MSM to help the horses’ own anti- inflammatory processes. It’s a low-sugar formulation, which makes it suitable for those prone to laminitis.

Cavalor ArtiTec

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 2l, 5l

RRP: £179 for 1l

Daily measure: 60–90ml

Cost per day: £5.37–8.05

Designed to provide horses what they need during periods of intense work and is the result of seven years of scientific research into nutritional supplements for healthy tendons and joints in top-class sport horses.

Aviform Suppleaze VS

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 2kg, 4kg

RRP: £84.95 for 1kg

Daily measure: 64g

Cost per day: £5.44

This is a combination of Aviform’s Suppleaze Gold and Suppleaze Progen for horses that require the highest specification of supplement. It contains full clinical levels of glucosamine HCL, chondroitin, MSM, HA, bioactive collagen peptides, curcumin, boswellia and vitamin C. Available in a 100% compostable pouch. BETA NOPS compliant.

How to choose the best joint supplement for older horses

Joint supplements that are formulated specifically for older horses will tend to have the highest specification in a manufacturer’s joint supplement range – higher than most in our guide to the best joint supplements for general use.

Joint supplements are available in liquid, powder, and pellet forms, and it’s important to choose a form that your horse will readily consume. Cost is another consideration, and it’s often more economical to purchase larger quantities. We’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide using the smallest tubs available to help you compare them easily.

The most common ingredients found in joint supplements typically include glucosamine, MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane), and HA (hyaluronic acid), which support cartilage, suggested anti-inflammatory properties, and aid lubrication.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Everyone knows a “moody mare” – whether their hormones are causing them to be difficult to handle, ride or train, or are interfering with a broodmare’s natural breeding cycle, it can present a real challenge. But this is something that the best supplements for moody mares can often help with.

The length of a mare’s natural breeding season varies, but it typically starts around March/April each year, so early spring is a great time to begin supplementing to encourage regularity, reduce unpredictability and support more consistent behaviour, which will in turn lead to improved performance and a happier horse.

Supplements for moody mares: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best supplements for moody mares that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more in certain situations or a loading dose, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

Dodson & Horrell Stroppy Mare

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg

RRP: £18.78 for 1kg

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £0.56

A comforting blend for a hormonal mare that includes herbs that support hormonal function and the reproductive system, as well as having calming properties.

NAF Five Star Oestress

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l, 2l, 5l

RRP: £39.99 for 1l

Daily measure: 25–50ml

Cost per day: £1.00–2.00

This supplement compliments the natural oestrus cycle by encouraging regularity and supporting hormone balance. Also available as a powder.

Equine America No More Moods

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l

RRP: £25.99

Daily measure: 15–30ml

Cost per day: From £0.39

This supplement contains micronutrients that help to balance hormones, contribute to relieving muscle tension and support a calm mare.

Premier Performance Sassy Mare Plus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 480g, 960g, 1.3kg, 1.92kg, 3.84kg, 9.6kg

RRP: £26.25 for 480g

Daily measure: 16–32g

Cost per day: £0.85–1.75

Formulated with a specific blend of herbs, minerals, vitamins and amino acids to support hormonal balance, wellbeing and overall calmness.

Equine Products UK Mood Balancer

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l

RRP: £28

Daily measure: 30ml

Cost per day: £0.84

Designed to maintain normal behaviour and temperament so that performance doesn’t suffer.

Global Herbs FriskyMare Plus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 5kg

RRP: £43.50 for 1kg

Daily measure: 25g

Cost per day: £1.09

A mix of traditional calming herbs that help manage the behaviours and comfort of cycling mares, reducing unpredictability and aggression caused by hormone levels.

EquiNutritive Moody Madam

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 3kg

RRP: £45.99 for 1kg

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £1.38

This natural mare supplement is a carefully cultivated mix of seven dried herbs combined to maintain hormone balance and support your mare through her season.

Science Supplements HormonAid

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.55kg

RRP: £44.99

Daily measure: 51g

Cost per day: £1.19

Designed to work alongside the natural cycle of the mare, this supplement helps to relieve tension and support a more amenable demeanour. It contains vitex agnus-castus extract, which helps to ease transitions through the oestrus cycle, selected herbs that encourage a stable mood, vitamins that promote a good mental attitude and magnesium, which helps to ease hormone associated muscle cramps or tenderness.

Hilton Herbs Easy Mare

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l, 3l, 5l

RRP: £32.95 for 1l

Daily measure: 25ml

Cost per day: £0.82

This supplement contains medical grade herbs selected to help support a balanced hormonal system and offer mares comfort during their seasons.

Cavalor Venus

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 500ml, 2l

RRP: £42 for 500ml

Daily measure: 20ml

Cost per day: £1.68

A herbal extract that supports the hormonal balance in sensitive and moody mares by helping to regulate the hormonal cycle.

Omega Agnus Castus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 3kg

RRP: £14.99 for 1kg

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £0.45

Agnus castus is linked to supporting a healthy pituitary gland and endocrine system. This allows horses to healthily self-regulate their metabolism, growth, reproductive system and response to stress. It’s also a powerful antioxidant that contains compounds that ease stress and low mood.

How to choose the best supplement for moody mares

Most hormonal supplements for mares are made of a combination of a range of herbs that are known for their regulating and calming properties. They are available in both liquid and powder form. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, you need to make sure your horse is receiving the recommended dose or they won’t receive the benefit.

We’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but if you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

The best joint supplements for horses provide additional nutritional support for normal and healthy joint function to help keep them in good working order, comfortable and moving at their best.

There’s a lot for your horse’s joints to contend with throughout the year. In the winter, the increased likelihood of restricted turnout means they’re likely to be moving less and when this is combined with colder temperatures, stiffness is a common result. If the ground’s not hard then it’s wet, which can lead to more roadwork and increased concussive forces on the joint, too. Whereas in the summer hard ground is also unavoidable if you’re not confined to a school.

Joint supplements for horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best joint supplements for horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more with a higher workload, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

NAF Five Star Superflex

Form: Powder

Sizes: 400g, 800g, 1.6kg, 3.2kg, 9.6kg

RRP: £26.50 for 400g

Daily measure: 13g

Cost per day: £0.86

A scientifically balanced ratio of readily absorbed glucosamine, chondroitin and the highest quality MSM, which support the cartilage — the first part of the joint to show wear and tear. It also contains a powerful anti-oxidant formula, which tackles excess free radical build-up around the joint. Superflex contains the right combination of key nutrients in the optimum ratios and is also available in liquid form.

BETA NOPS compliant.

YuMove Joint Care for Horses

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.8kg

RRP: £97.15

Daily measure: 40g

Cost per day: £2.16

This new and improved formula has increased levels of high-strength Glucosamine, MSM and omega-3, providing even more support, encouraging joint health and muscle recovery.

Dodson & Horrell Joint Support

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 1.5kg, 3kg

RRP: £25.61 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £0.51

A pelleted supplement that supports the nutritional maintenance of your horse’s musculoskeletal system, designed to support healthy joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Also contains herbs from Dodson & Horrell Mobility.

BETA NOPS compliant.

TopSpec 10:10 Joint Support

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.5kg, 3kg, 9kg or 20kg

RRP: £39.75 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £1.33

A caramel-flavoured additive that includes an excellent specification of nutrients to help maintain health in and around joints. It includes a generous combination of natural sources of glucosamine and MSM, as well as a blend of antioxidants.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Animalife Vetroflex Original

Form: Powder

Sizes: 600g, 1kg or 2kg

RRP: £59.99 for 500g

Daily measure: 20g

Cost per day: £2.40

This supplement is a pure peptide protein and works by protecting the cartilage and synovial fluid against deterioration. It also stimulates the cartilage cells to promote more collagen, which helps maintain movement and flexibility by protecting the joints from friction.

Aviform Suppleaze Gold

Form: Powder

Sizes: 600g, 1kg, 2kg or 4kg

RRP: £51.95 for 600g

Daily measure: 27g

Cost per day: £2.34

This supplement offers medium to high level joint support. It contains the optimum ratios of chondroitin, glucosamine HCl, MSM, and high levels of hyaluronic acid, plus added vitamin C and boswellia.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Equitop GLME

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 750g

RRP: £94.20

Daily measure: 25g

Cost per day: 3.14

Manufactured by the world’s largest equine veterinary health company, Equitop GLME contains high quality green-lipped mussel extract (GLME), which provides nutrients to support optimal joint health. It is tested free of prohibited substances and can be used confidently in competition.

Science Supplements FlexAbility Plus+

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.7kg, 10kg

RRP: £69.99 for 1.7kg

Daily measure: 57g

Cost per day: £2.35

The only joint supplement in the UK with a published peer-reviewed paper in The Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, it contains optimum levels of scientifically proven ingredients, including glucosamine HCl, chondroitin sulphate, MSM and Hyaluronic Acid.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Global Herbs MoveFree Plus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 500g, 1kg or 5kg

RRP: £37.50 for 500g

Daily measure: 22g

Cost per day: £1.54

This supplement helps to maintain joints, tendons and ligaments. A highly concentrated herbal mix, it supports freedom of movement and helps maintain the natural production of joint fluid.

BETA NOPS compliant.

The Golden Paste Company TurmerAid

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 2kg or 15kg

RRP: £23.20 for 2kg

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £0.58

This joint supplement also supports the body’s natural inflammation process, aids digestion and promotes a healthy skin and coat. It contains turmeric (5.1% curcumin), linseed oil, black pepper, apple cider vinegar and yucca.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Omega Flexology

Form: Pellet

Sizes: 930g, 3.72kg

RRP: £41.25 for 930kg

Daily measure: 15.5g

Cost per day: £0.69

This natural supplement supports and maintains all aspects of joint health, from maintaining the health of tendons, ligaments and tissues to supporting healthy cartilage, muscles and mobility. Ingredients include glucosamine, MSM, HA and boswellia for ultimate joint health.

H Bradshaws ColiFlex Gastro-Joint Care

Form: Powder

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £96

Daily measure: 30–60g

Cost per day: £0.96–1.92

This formulation targets the joint and digestive system in one supplement to ensure maximum nutrition for your horse’s joints, through improved digestive function. It contains Coligone, which works throughout the digestive tract using active, natural ingredients to help combat compromised digestive health and support optimum digestion. Also contains glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, MSM, HA, anti-oxidants, omega-3 and calcium.

How to choose the best joint supplement for horses

Look out for the most common ingredients found in joint supplements, which includes:

• glucosamine – this works as a building block for lots of different processes in the body, and is particularly important for maintaining the cartilage between joints, which assists in smooth movement and reducing concussion of joints. Studies suggest a 500kg horse needs 10g glucosamine a day.
• MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane) – it’s suggested this possesses anti-inflammatory properties and could have a protective effect against some forms of exercise-induced injuries. An effective equine dose of MSM is said to be at least 1,200mg per day.
• HA (hyaluronic acid) – this is widely used for reducing heat, pain and swelling, and is known to help with lubricating the joints as well as maintaining healthy cartilage and connective tissue. Recommended dosages vary greatly, but you should expect a joint supplement to deliver upwards of 100mg of HA a day.

Consider the form the supplement takes – joint supplements can come in liquid, powder and pellet forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but if you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Do you think your horse could benefit from one of the best hoof supplements to support healthy hoof growth? Horses hooves contend with many environmental challenges throughout the year – the weather varies all the time, grazing quality fluctuates and your horse’s workload may change, too. Hoof quality is largely affected by diet, while external elements, including climate, management and care, also play an important role.

Hoof problems, such as poor quality horn, slow growth and increased occurrence of hoof cracks and splits, can often be attributed to nutritional deficiencies, but by providing targeted daily nutritional support with a specially formulated hoof supplement, you can maintain and support healthy hooves. Here is a selection of the best hoof supplements for horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products.

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more in certain situations, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

Best hoof supplements for horses: what’s on the market?

Aviform Biodura Hoof Supplement

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 2kg

RRP: £37.95 for 1kg

Daily measure: 10g

Cost per day: £0.38

This is a balanced biotin hoof supplement that is designed for horses who have weak, cracked or brittle hooves. Available in compostable pouches.

Dodson & Horrell Hoof Support

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 1.5kg, 3kg

RRP: £21.45

Daily measure: 25g

Cost per day: £0.36

A high-specification complete pelleted supplement that contains biotin, zinc and methionine, which all aid strong and healthy hoof formation.

NAF Profeet Pellets

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £39.99

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £1.33

These pellets provide nutrients that directly support hoof health, as well as nutritional support that targets healthy liver function, which is fundamental to healthy hoof growth. Also available in liquid and powder forms.

Life Data Labs Farrier’s Formula

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 5kg tub or 5kg refill pack

RRP: £56.25

Daily measure: 85g

Cost per day: £0.97

This supplement contains omega fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and amino acids that are important for healthy hoof structure and growth.

Lincoln Biotin Daily Tablets

Form: Tablets

Sizes: Pot of 60

RRP: £16.99

Daily measure: 2 tablets

Cost per day: £0.57

These peppermint treats are a convenient way of providing your horse with his daily requirement of biotin, which promotes strong, healthy horn growth when fed continuously.

TopSpec Healthy Hoof

Form: Powder

Sizes: 3kg, 9kg, 20kg

RRP: £28.25 for 3kg

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £0.94

This supplement includes biotin, plus a broad range of micronutrients that improve the efficiency of the hoof supplement.

Global Herbs Hoof

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 5kg

RRP: £24 for 1kg

Daily measure: 26g

Cost per day: £0.62

An advanced, fast-acting and palatable herbal supplement that provides nutritional support for the laminae, digestion, metabolism, liver function and feed utilisation.

Hilton Herbs Hoof & Health

Form: Powder

Sizes: 2kg, 4kg

RRP: £21.51 for 2kg

Daily measure: 26g

Cost per day: £0.28

This vitamin- and mineral-rich supplement is made of a blend of seaweed, rosehip and pure biotin, providing the vital nutrients to support healthy hoof growth and coat condition.

Science Supplements 4Feet

Form: Powder

Sizes: 2kg, 10kg

RRP: £44.99 for 2kg

Daily measure: 12g

Cost per day: £0.27

A specialist dietary supplement that provides a concentrated source of a highly bioavailable biotin, which means more nutrients are absorbed, leading to better results.

Kevin Bacon’s Hoof Formula

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 5kg

RRP: £55

Daily measure: 200g

Cost per day: £2.20

This concentrated supplement promotes speedy hoof growth. It is well suited for horses on high-energy diets.

Equine America Super Hoof Pellets Plus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £39.50

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £1.32

This low-sugar and low-starch, concentrated supplement that contains a range of active ingredients that support health hoof growth and horn quality as well as liver health.

How to choose the best hoof supplement for horses

The main ingredient to look out for is biotin, which is a B vitamin. It is recommended that your horse receives 3mg/100kg bodyweight/day, which is equivalent to 15mg for a 500kg horse. Another aspect to consider is the form the supplement takes – they can come in liquid, powder and pellet forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but if you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

How to improve hoof quality

Supplements can only improve the quality of new horn, rather than the existing, so if you decide to use a hoof supplement you need to commit to using it for a number of months before you will notice a visible difference. Topical applications, such as one of the best hoof oils and conditioners, can have a positive effect on your horse’s hooves, too, while hoof boots will also offer barefoot horses additional protection.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

When will I see results from feeding a hoof supplement?

There is no quick-fix hoof-strengthening solution. Horses’ hooves grow slowly, so choosing a hoof supplement to support your horse’s hooves should be a long-term commitment. You should start to see noticeable changes at the top of the hoof first, and then within eight to 12 months the hoof will have completed a full cycle and you’ll see a greater difference.

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These Black Friday pet deals from supplement experts YuMove are designed to support joint health and mobility in animals. Right now (until midnight tonight), you can get up to 60% off across the entire YuMove range, including Joint Care for Horses at just £58.29, reduced from £97.15. This is a 45-day supply for a 500kg horse and features in our guide to the best joint supplements for horses.

As horse and dog owners, we want our much-loved companions to lead active, happy and long lives. YuMove has a host of proven benefits that can be easily incorporated into your horse or dog’s routine, and a load of five-star Trustpilot reviews.

The YuMove range is made with high-quality, natural ingredients, designed to be safe and effective for your horse and they are free from any artificial preservatives, so you can feel good about what you’re giving your four-legged friends.

What’s to like about YuMove supplements

YuMove has 15 years of scientific research supporting its products. The YuMove Joint Care range includes glucosamine, which helps build and repair healthy joint cartilage, promoting mobility and flexibility. Interestingly, it’s also backed up with a money-back guarantee (dog supplements only) and the brand says you’ll see a difference in your dog’s mobility in just six weeks or they’ll give you your money back.

Elsewhere in the YuMove range, the Digestive Care Pre & Probiotic is a daily supplement tablet containing a unique ActivBio Complex of prebiotics and probiotic bacteria designed to support your dog’s digestive health and keep sensitive tummies in tip-top shape. It works by keeping stools firm and topping up good bacteria in the gut.

However, the highlight is the excellent discounts across the range – made even better with the “Subscribe & Save” option on your product of choice, which you can pause, edit, and cancel at any time, and is an across-the-board 60% reduction.

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If you’re on the search for the “best laminitis supplements”, it’s important to be aware that supplements will not cure laminitis or make a lame horse sound – only regulated medicines can claim to do so. It’s also important to bear in mind that laminitis is a medical emergency – if your horse is showing signs of laminitis you should call your vet immediately.

However, as horses on restricted grass intake require additional support to remain fit and healthy, targeted “laminitis supplements” can help to support the diets of horses in this category throughout their lives. Most overweight equines are susceptible to laminitis, as are those diagnosed with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), insulin dysregulation (ID), or Cushing’s disease (PPID), but ensuring they have the right diet and nutritional support is a key step in helping to avoid an attack.

In general, supplements that are formulated to support horses on restricted grazing and sensitive to spring and autumn grass flushes deliver nutrition that supports healthy hoof growth and promotes circulation in a low-sugar and starch form. They can be added to feeds suitable for horses prone to laminitis for easy feeding.

‘Laminitis supplements’: what are your options?

Here is a selection of available supplements to support horses on restricted grazing, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more in some situations, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

NAF Laminaze

Sizes: 750g, 3kg

RRP: £42.99 for 750g

Daily measure: 25–50g

Cost per day: From £1.43 – £2.87

This blend of more than 40 ingredients combines key gut support, bio-available sulphur and targeted nutrients, in a palatable formula to maintain hoof health and improve the diet. Prebiotics and live probiotics are included to promote a stable, healthy gut environment, while antioxidants support the liver.

Aviform Equine Lamino

Sizes: 1kg, 2kg

RRP: £18.95 for 1kg

Daily measure: 45g

Cost per day: £0.85

This contains a blend of ingredients that are particularly useful when the blood supply to the foot has been impaired.

Global Herbs LamiPro Liquid

Sizes: 500ml, 1l, 5l

RRP: £28.50 for 500ml

Daily measure: 10ml

Cost per day: £0.57

This palatable herbal supplement works by providing nutritional support for digestion, metabolism, liver function and feed utilisation. This combined action supports and comforts the feet at any time throughout the year. The formula is fast-acting and provides nutritional support from the first day fed. Also available in powder form.

Lincoln Laminide

Sizes: 600g

RRP: £46.50

Daily measure: 7g

Cost per day: £0.55

Formulated to support and help maintain normal, healthy circulation to the hooves and the laminae, this supplement is made from 100% natural ingredients. In an ideal situation it can be fed all year round or when management changes occur, combined with exercise where appropriate and weight control, in order to support healthy blood flow and circulation.

Dodson & Horrell Lami-Free

Sizes: 1.5kg

RRP: £22.70

Daily measure: 38–47½g

Cost per day: From £0.58

This dried herbal blend has been formulated for the nutritional maintenance of the laminae. It contains nettle and rosehips, which promote healthy circulation and immune function, and seaweed, which provides minerals essential for healthy hoof growth.

Equine America Lamigard TRT Regular Solution

Sizes: 1l

RRP: £55.50

Daily measure: 30ml

Cost per day: £1.67

This liquid supplement is low in sugar and starch, while also high in fibre. It provides nutritional and antioxidant support, is easy to feed and is suitable for

horses receiving a very low concentrate feed.

Cavalor LaminAid

Sizes: 1l

RRP: £99

Daily measure: 20ml

Cost per day: £1.98

This supports the sensitive intestinal flora and helps to maintain balance in hormonal and metabolic processes. It also helps to support blood circulation and promote blood flow in the hoof. Best used in conjunction with Cavalor PodoSens.

Omega Equine Laminology

Sizes: 900g, 1.8kg

RRP: £31

Daily measure: 15-30g

Cost per day: From £0.52 – £1.03

This supplement is formulated from a collection of natural ingredients for supporting healthy laminae and hooves. It contains nettle, hawthorn and rosehips, to promote circulation and immune function, and biotin, which promotes healthy hoof growth.

Horse First Hoof First

Sizes: 750g, 2kg, 5kg

RRP: £25.30 for 750g

Daily measure: 25g

Cost per day: £0.84

This supplement contains 40mg of biotin per serving, plus all the essential vitamins and minerals to successfully grow strong, healthy hooves.

Maxavita MaxaLami

Sizes: 900g

RRP: £24

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £0.80

Containing powerful antioxidants and green-lipped mussel, this supplement supports the health and wellbeing of horses on restricted diets. Key ingredients support the development of healthy hooves and laminae and promote optimum circulation. It also contains a prebiotic that has been seen to have a beneficial effect on weight management and digestive microflora, especially when feed and calorie intake is being managed.

TopSpec AntiLam

Sizes: 15kg

RRP: £34.95

Daily measure: 500g

Cost per day: £1.17

This pelleted multi-supplement designed to provide nutritional support for those prone to, being treated for, or recovering from laminitis. It combines several supplements with a high fibre, very low-calorie carrier to make it palatable. Long-term trials have shown that it does not promote weight gain when on restricted or poor grazing.

Saracen KER Bio-Bloom PS

Sizes: 2kg, 4kg, 10kg

RRP: £90.32 for 2kg

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £1.35

This is a dual action supplement designed to support and maintain hoof and coat condition formulated with key nutrients, high levels of biotin, lecithin, iodine, methionine, chelated zinc at research-proven levels shown to support hoof growth.

How to choose the best laminitis supplement for your horse

Most supplements formulated for horses prone to laminitis are low in sugar and include a range of herbs known for their support and development of healthy hooves and laminae and promote optimum circulation. They are available in powder or liquid form. Make sure you choose the form your horse prefers to ensure they are getting the required amount for the desired results.

If you’re looking for a more general hoof supplement to support your horse’s hooves and encourage healthy growth, check out this selection of the best hoof supplements.

We’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but if you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

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Older horses will often feel life’s challenges, such as decreased grazing quality and restricted movement, the most so it’s important to make sure they’re getting everything they need. While you can get supplements to support specific areas of your horse’s wellbeing, such as gut balancers or joint supplements for older horses, many companies also make supplements for older horses that are formulated to support their all-round health.

These veteran supplements often contain ingredients that are known to support the joints and digestive system, to help keep them working as efficiently and comfortably as possible. Maintaining a healthy digestive system is particularly important as it will help your horse be able to absorb and make the most of any other feed or supplements he’s getting. Some supplements for older horses also include ingredients that aim to help maintain the hormonal balance. There are such a wide range of veteran-specific supplements that it’s important to consider what you’re looking to gain from one before you make a purchasing decision.

If you compete with your older horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

Supplements for older horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best supplements for older horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed more in certain situations, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

NAF In The Pink Senior

Form: Powder

Sizes: 900g, 1.8kg, 3.6kg

RRP: £26.99 for 900g

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £0.90

This supplement provides the older horse with the support he needs to stay active and feeling young. It helps balance the diet and the digestive system, which enables the horse to maximise the value of his feed intake. It also supplies antioxidant ingredients to flush excess free radicals and provides nutrients to support joint health.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com

Science Supplements WellHorse Veteran

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.6kg

RRP: £44.99

Daily measure: 54g

Cost per day: £1.35

This supplement contains every important nutrient your veteran horse requires and meets the NRC (National Research Council) and BASF (Animal Nutrition) recommendations for vitamins, microminerals and macrominerals to keep your older horse as active as ever. It also supports joint, respiratory and digestive health, muscle function, the immune system and coat and skin condition.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk 

Blue Chip Super Concentrated Senior Balancer

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £28.90 for 3kg

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £0.96

This feed balancer includes CushinCombo, which is a combination of chaste tree berry, antioxidants and omega oils, as well as a complete joint supplement, containing glucosamine and rosa canina.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Global Herbs Veteran Plus

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg

RRP: £32

Daily measure: 10g

Cost per day: £0.32

This supplement is designed to help support older horses when they lose the spark of youth. The key herbs, such as winter cherry, help to support digestion and immune function. It helps to maintain peak body condition, mobility and energy levels.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or oakfield-direct.co.uk

Dodson & Horrell Mobility

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 2.5kg

RRP: £19.19 for 1kg

Daily measure: 51g

Cost per day: £0.98

This dried blend of herbs will support your horses muscles and joints. It includes comfrey leaf, dandelion and nettle, which work to help support normal cell renewal and general joint and bone health. Celery seed, burdock root and devil’s claw root are also added for ease of movement.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

EquiNutritive Golden Oldies

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg, 2kg, 6kg

RRP: £41.99 for 1kg

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £1.26

This natural herbal supplement for older horses provides extra support to maintain healthy mobility, liver function, dental strength, a shiny coat and healthy skin.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

Equine America Everyday Vitamin & Mineral Supplement

Sizes: 1.5kg, 5kg

RRP: £29.50

Daily feeding rate: 50g

Cost per day: £0.98

Providing more than 25 key vitamins, minerals and trace elements, together with probiotics and prebiotics, this is a great option for horses on forage-based diets or low intakes of concentrate feed.

In the UK? View now at equine-america.co.uk, amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Hilton Herbs Senior Horse

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg

RRP: £28.41 for 1kg

Daily measure: 34g

Cost per day: £0.97

This herbal supplement helps to support all aspects of ageing. It includes ingredients such as milk thistle, burdock, meadowsweet and hawthorn to maintain liver and kidney health, the circulatory system, joints and muscles and good digestive health.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Horse First KeepMeSound

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.5kg, 5kg

RRP: £31.70 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 60g

Cost per day: £1.27

This all-in-one supplement compliments a well-balanced diet by providing an adequate intake of essential nutrients. It nurtures and cares for joints, hooves, coat, skin and assists the digestive system, giving all round help and support.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Relief has been shared as it was confirmed the widely used supplement ingredient MSM will not be added to the FEI equine prohibited substances list (EPSL).

Earlier this year MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane) was listed by the FEI as a proposed controlled medication and specified substance for the 2024 EPSL. MSM is an organic compound that occurs naturally in plants such as maize, oats, apples, and alfalfa. It is an internationally recognised feed material, commonly used in equine diets at up to 25g a day to horses competing under FEI rules, without regulatory incident. MSM was listed as a controlled medication from 2011 until it was delisted at the end of 2017.

Following the proposal the British Equestrian Trade Association’s (BETA) feed committee, via British Equestrian, put forward evidence to the FEI “justifying MSM’s continued unlisted status”. A BETA spokesman told H&H the FEI proposal indicated a concern that MSM can convert to controlled medication DMSO, but BETA “does not believe there is evidence to show this is a risk in mammals”.

BETA stated that in addition to direct transfer from plant-based diets, “metabolic pathways show MSM can be formed via metabolism of methionine which, as an essential, indispensable, amino acid is required in the diet of all equines – and given that MSM is both natural and ubiquitous to the equine diet, riders are not able to avoid its presence in their horses’ diets, and listing on the EPSL could have led to regulatory issues without pure MSM having been fed.”

BETA executive director Claire Williams said the BETA feed committee provided “extensive technical evidence” to support the association’s beliefs that “defining MSM in this way could have had a significant and potentially negative impact on both equine welfare and the industry”.

“We are delighted that our challenge proved compelling enough for the FEI to reconsider its decision and change the list,” she said.

“We are immensely relieved that the proposed listing of MSM has been dropped and that the current status of ‘unlisted’ is maintained. It allows riders competing under FEI rules continued access to this important ingredient that plays a supportive role in protecting the sport horse from exercise-related oxidative damage.”

Supplement manufacturer NAF shared BETA’s relief.

“As members of the BETA feed committee, we are delighted that the FEI took our robust and evidence-led feedback to their original proposal into consideration and as a result, have not listed MSM,” a NAF spokesman told H&H.

An FEI spokesman confirmed to H&H that the proposal to relist MSM as a controlled medication was withdrawn, and it will not be on the 2024 EPSL.

“As a signatory of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the FEI must follow the WADA policy on this matter. As all the discussions around the list group are to remain confidential, we cannot share more details at this moment,” he said.

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A horse’s stomach produces acid continuously, making it very susceptible to developing wounds or sores. The best gastric supplements for horses help to balance the pH (acidity) levels and protect the stomach lining. Excess acidity in the stomach can exhibit as wind-sucking, crib-biting, weaving and lack of appetite or condition, as well as bloating, napping and “grumpy” behaviour. If horses do not have access to natural acid build-up prevention from ad-lib hay, haylage or grass, the acidity will increase and can cause gastric ulcers.

Gastric supplements are usually particularly suitable for horses that are stabled, consuming grain feed, competition horses, horses that are displaying signs of discomfort, loose stools or tucked up tummies. They are often beneficial for racehorses and horses in hard work, as they are usually at highest risk of increased acidity. However, with some management practices, such as restricted turnout, acidity can build up in horses and ponies that you might not expect.

Whereas gut balancers are usually formulated to support and maintain a healthy hindgut by providing pre- and probiotics, gastric supplements target the digestive system earlier on at the stomach. Some supplements, however, contain ingredients that support both areas of the digestive system. In cases where a horse has received treatment for gastric ulcers, it’s common for vets to recommend a gastric supplement to prevent reoccurrence, alongside choosing a feed suitable for horses prone to gastric ulcers.

Gastric supplements for horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best gastric supplements for horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require loading doses and some horses will require a higher dose, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

NAF Five Star GastriVet

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 2kg, 4kg

RRP: £57.50 for 2kg

Daily measure: 67g

Cost per day: £1.93

Formulated to target the stomach, soothing and preserving the stomach lining integrity, GastriVet helps to balance the pH levels. It supports the natural anti-inflammatory processes and helps to retain clear areas in the glandular and non-glandular regions of the stomach. GastriVet also supports the hindgut with nutrients to provide and support live cultures.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Horse First Acid Aid

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.5kg, 5kg

RRP: £42.90 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £1.43

Developed to help improve the digestive health of your horse, Acid Aid effectively soothes and coats the stomach, acting as a buffer, helping to neutralise the gastric acid and protecting the delicate lining. It helps maintain healthy acid levels in the stomach, aiding normal acid production so that digestion is not overly disrupted.

Can be fed short or long term. BETA NOPS compliant.

Aviform EGF Equine Gastric Formula

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1kg

RRP: £25.95

Daily measure: 41g

Cost per day: £1.06

Formulated to promote healthy gastric conditions by supporting the control of acid in the stomach. It contains both calcium and magnesium, which are recognised as alkaline providers. Daily use can help to prevent gastric ulcers occurring and protect the stomach from stress-related gastric issues.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Cavalor Gastro Aid

Form: Powder

Sizes: 2l

RRP: £109

Daily measure: 60ml

Cost per day: £3.27

Gastro Aid creates a healthy environment in the stomach by neutralising gastric acid and protecting the stomach wall. Acid makes the stomach susceptible to developing wounds or sores, and the herbs in Gastro Aid help to protect against this by stimulating saliva production and promoting the healing of ulcers. Also available in powder form.

H Bradshaws Coligone

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 500ml, 1l, 5l

RRP: £16.50 for 500ml

Daily measure: 60ml

Cost per day: £1.98

Coligone helps maintain healthy acid levels, and is suitable for use during training, competing, travelling or during times of stress and ill health where there has been a disturbance to the microflora in the digestive tract. It’s particularly ideal for use when gastric acid levels are high and saliva production is low.

Also available as a powder.

NutriScience Gastro Care

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.8kg, 3kg

RRP: £76 for 1.8kg

Daily measure: 15g

Cost per day: £0.63

This supplement is designed to have an all-round approach to gastrointestinal health. It contains antacids that help mimic the effects of saliva and protect the stomach lining by absorbing and buffering excess acid, while L-Glutamic acid can help to aid the regeneration of the stomach lining.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Equine America Uls Gard Pellets

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 1.5kg, 3kg, 10kg

RRP: £29.99 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £2

Uls Gard pellets provide a fibrous alfalfa and soya hull mat in the stomach, and are formulated to help maintain digestive health and comfort. It contains ingredients that help soothe and support the stomach and gut lining, including pectins, lecithin, marshmallow root, glycine and liquorice. It also contains a slow release calcium and magnesium from marine algae, which help to maintain a healthy gut pH, along with live probiotics and prebiotics to support a healthy microbiome.

BETA NOPS compliant.

In the UK? Buy direct at equine-america.co.uk

Equitop Pronutrin

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 3.5kg

RRP: £100

Daily measure: 250g

Cost per day: £7.14

Equitop Pronutrin pellets contains 77% Apolectol, which is a patented combination of fruit and vegetable fibre, glycerol and lecithin. This forms a gel to support the stomach’s natural defences and maintain healthy gastric acidity for optimal gastric health.

Blue Chip Super Concentrated Ulsa-Cool Balancer

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £28.90

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £0.96

Made to assist horses prone to gastric ulcers with the maintenance of acid balance in the gut. The prebiotic MOS, probiotics, beta glucans, marine minerals, nucleotides and anti-oxidants in the balancer restore the natural balance of the gut flora, which helps to maintain continued digestive wellbeing. This nutrient-dense pelleted balancer, is whole grain and molasses fee, and formulated to be fed in small quantities alongside a fibre-based diet.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Protexin Acid Ease

Form: Powder

Sizes: 1.5kg, 3kg

RRP: £57.99

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £1.93

Acid Ease is a concentrated, palatable combination of calcium and magnesium carbonate, fibre, kaolin, amino acids, plus probiotics and prebiotics. It is suitable to calm excess acid in all horses and weaned foals.

BETA NOPS compliant.

Equine Products UK Gastro-Mag

Form: Liquid

Sizes: 1l

RRP: £25.99

Daily measure: 60ml

Cost per day: £1.56

This complimentary feed is designed to be fed to horses suffering from excess acidity in the stomach, which can exhibit as wind sucking, crib biting, weaving and lack of appetite or condition. It helps to maintain normal stomach pH and improves appetite of horses with excess acidity.

In the UK? Buy direct at equineproducts-ukltd.com

Betta Life PharmaTrac Total Digestive Support

Form: Powder

Sizes: 120g, 400g, 1kg, 2kg, 5kg

RRP: £15 for 400g

Daily measure: 10g

Cost per day: £1.25

This supplement targets both the fore and hindgut, supporting the gastric environment and helping to maintain an optimum pH level.

Fine Fettle Happy Tummy Charcoal

Form: Fine granules

Sizes: 500g, 900g, 3.75kg, 7.8kg, 24kg

RRP: £21.50 for 500g

Daily measure: 20g

Cost per day: £0.86

Fed regularly, this charcoal supplement helps maintain good digestive health by supporting a natural pH balance in the gut, which in turn supports the immune system and provides the foundation for good health, good condition and better performance.

Synovium Gastrosafe

Form: Pellets

Sizes: 1.5kg, 4.5kg

RRP: £52 for 1.5kg

Daily measure: 90–150g

Cost per day: £3.20–5.20

Developed to support a normal and healthy stomach environment and aid digestive function, this supplement has been extensively trialled and is suitable for horses with poor appetite, poor condition, poor performance or behavioural changes.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

KER RiteTrac

Form: Powder

Sizes: 3kg, 6kg

RRP: £143.50 for 3kg

Daily measure: 120g

Cost per day: £5.74

RiteTrac works by targeting both the foregut and the hindgut of the horse. When fed in conjunction with correct management and forage regimes, RiteTrac helps to maintain an optimal gastric environment. It contains KER Equishure, which helps maintain an optimum pH in the horse’s hindgut and ensure normal fermentation patterns. Suitable for horses experiencingloose droppings, weight loss, lack of appetite, abnormal digestive sounds or stereotypical behaviour.

In the US? View now at chewy.com or smartpakequine.com

How to choose the best gastric supplements for horses

Look out for gastric supplements that include the following ingredients…

• calcium, which has recognised alkaline properties
• magnesium, which also has recognised alkaline properties
• probiotics, which are often referred to as “good bacteria”
• prebiotics, which are the “food” for probiotics, helping them to work effectively

Consider the form the supplement takes – gastric supplements can come in liquid, powder and pellet forms. Your horse may have a preference to one over another, which could make all the difference as if he won’t eat it, your horse won’t receive the benefit.

Cost is another consideration – we’ve calculated the daily cost of all the supplements featured in this guide to help you compare them easily. To make it as comparable as possible, we’ve used the smallest tubs available, but you’re better off buying a larger volume of supplement if you can as the daily cost can become significantly lower.

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

You might also like:

20 feeds suitable for horses prone to gastric ulcers

16 gut balancers on the market – and how to choose the best for your horse

Vitamin and mineral supplements: what’s on the market?

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Ensuring your horse gets everything he needs to keep his body functioning is vitally important – and this is where vitamin and mineral supplements for horses can really be of benefit to the diet, especially if your horse only receives forage.

Most broad-spectrum supplements are designed to ensure that he receives the necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are required to keep each of his body systems functioning efficiently.

Vitamin and mineral supplements are useful to feed all year round and we’ve rounded up a selection below, but if you’re looking for something more specific supplements for horses, why not check out our guides to…

• joint supplements
• gut balancers
• gastric supplements
• hoof supplements
• respiratory/breathing supplements
• calmers
• instant calmers
• hormonal supplements for mares
• performance supplements
• veteran supplements
• skin and coat supplements
• supplements for horses on restricted grazing
• electrolytes

If you compete with your horse then it is important you make sure any supplements you use do not contain any prohibited substances.

Vitamin and mineral supplements for horses: what are your options?

Here is a selection of the best vitamin and mineral supplements for horses that are currently available, including the manufacturers’ descriptions of their products…

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Some products require you to feed a loading rate or more with a higher workload, which will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

Dodson & Horrell Daily Vitamins & Minerals

Sizes: 2kg

RRP: £18.70

Daily feeding rate: 50g

Cost per day: £0.47

This low-intake pelleted supplement is formulated to provide your horse with a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals required in a balanced diet that isn’t usually provided by forage alone. It also contains natural antioxidants and is an ideal dietary addition for horses who hold weight well.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Equine America Everyday Vitamin & Mineral Supplement

Sizes: 1.5kg, 5kg

RRP: £29.50

Daily feeding rate: 50g

Cost per day: £0.98

Providing more than 25 key vitamins, minerals and trace elements, together with probiotics and prebiotics, this is a great option for horses on forage-based diets or low intakes of concentrate feed.

In the UK? View now at equine-america.co.uk, amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

NAF In The Pink Powder

Sizes: 700g, 1.4kg, 2.8kg, 10kg

RRP: £25.99 for 700g

Daily feeding rate: 24g

Cost per day: £0.89

This concentrated feed supplement contains live yeasts and probiotics, as well as vitamins, minerals and micronutrients that support health, vitality and performance.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk 

TopSpec All-In-One

Sizes: 4kg, 9kg, 20kg

RRP: £40.25 for 4kg

Daily feeding rate: 100g

Cost per day: £1

This caramel-flavoured broad-spectrum supplement contains many specialised supplements within it as well as antioxidants.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Science Supplements WellHorse Leisure

Sizes: 1.3kg

RRP: £29.99

Daily feeding rate: 42g

Cost per day: £0.97

Part of the WellHorse range that is suitable for horses on restricted diets, this supplement contains every important nutrients and meets the NRC (National Research Council) and BASF (Animal Nutrition) recommendations for vitamins and microminerals. It also contains protected live yeast to support a healthy digestive system.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Aviform Pro-Complete

Sizes: 2kg, 5kg

RRP: £41.95 for 2kg

Daily measure: 100g

Cost per day: £2.10

This offers the benefits of more than eight different products in a single supplement. It provides a combination of comprehensive multivitamins, natural antioxidants, amino acids, hoof conditioner, blood tonic, B-complex vitamins, a digestive aid and muscle/bone tonic.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk 

Horse First KeepMeSound

Sizes: 1.5kg, 5kg

RRP: £31.70 for 1.5kg

Daily feeding rate: 50g

Cost per day: £1.06

This all-in-one supplement provides support for joints, hooves, coat, skin and assists the digestive system, giving all-round help and support in one scoop.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Global Herbs GlobalVite

Sizes: 3kg, 6kg, 12kg

RRP: £32 for 3kg

Daily feeding rate: 50g

Cost per day: £0.53

Packed full of easy-to-absorb minerals that are necessary to support general bodily functions, maintain peak condition and immune system stability, this balancing supplement also helps to support healthy joints, skin and hooves.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, globalherbs.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Equine Products Selenavite E

Sizes: 1.5kg, 4kg, 10kg

RRP: £29.16 for 1.5kg

Daily feeding rate: 50g

Cost per day: £0.97

A comprehensive and effective all-round supplement, it provides 21 micronutrients, including trace elements, vitamins and amino acids. It is very high in vitamin E and is designed to be the ultimate feed balancer in supplement form. Also available as a liquid.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or amazon.co.uk 

Synovium Prefit

Sizes: 2kg

RRP: £35

Daily measure: 40g

Cost per day: £0.70

This is a balanced composition of high-quality vitamins, minerals, trace elements and biotin to help your horse feel fit and healthy. It can be used when there is a lack of vitamins in forage and to help boost the immune system.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Dengie Performance Vits & Mins

Form: Powder

Sizes: 2kg, 10kg

RRP: £26.95 for 2kg

Daily measure: 90g

Cost per day: £1.21

This broad-spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement is formulated for horses with increased nutritional requirements. It contains generous levels of vitamin E and selenium, live yeast and a full range of B vitamins, which are involved in energy utilisation and other metabolic functions.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

BettaLife PharmaPlast Ultimate Topline

Sizes: 750g, 1.5kg

RRP: £45 for 750g

Daily feeding rate: 25g

Cost per day: £1.50

This sugar-free and non-heating formula contains no artificial fillers or bulking agents. It supports muscle condition, coat health and topline for all horses in a variety of workloads.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Equivite Original

Sizes: 3kg, 15kg

RRP: £23.50 for 3kg

Daily feeding rate: 100g

Cost per day: £0.78

This broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement is ideal for good-doers. It is easy to mix into the feed and includes chelated minerals help maximise absorption.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Lincoln All Essential Vitamins & Minerals

Sizes: 1.65kg

RRP: £23.99

Daily feeding rate: 55g

Cost per day: £0.80

This daily supplement provides the full spectrum of essential vitamins and trace minerals and is formulated to bridge the nutritional gap for equines being fed either a forage only diet or receiving less than the recommended amount of a compound feed. It contains no fillers or bulking agents, has negligible sugar and starch content and no added iron.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk 

Foran Equine Chevinal

Sizes: 2.5l, 5l

RRP: £34.95 for 2.5l

Daily feeding rate: 30ml

Cost per day: £0.42

This liquid multivitamin, mineral and essential amino acid supplement completes a forage diet or one that is primarily based on straights. It provides readily available amino acids to develop and maintain condition.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

Feedmark New Benevit

Sizes: 5kg, 10kg, 15kg, 25kg

RRP: £59.99 for 5kg

Daily feeding rate: 111g

Cost per day: £1.22

This complete multivitamin and mineral supplement has been formulated based on the latest equine research and findings of the National Research Council. It provides 24 vitamins and minerals at proven levels to meet your horse’s nutritional needs. It is grain free and has no added iron.

In the UK? View now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

You might also like:

Best feed balancers for all horses: what’s on the market?

No foot, no horse – hoof supplements to help maintain healthy hooves

How are feed balancers different to vitamin and mineral supplements?

16 gut balancers on the market – and how to choose the best for your horse

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

An increasing number of horse owners are turning to turmeric as a supplement for their horses. Lottie Butler finds out what it’s used for, the research behind it and looks at options on the market.

What is it about turmeric for horses at the moment? For many of us, it is just that colourful peppery spice added to Asian dishes for colour and flavour. However, an increasing number of horse owners are turning to turmeric as a supplement for their horses; a natural remedy that has been proven to be beneficial for humans and is believed to help ease a whole range of health problems in horses — from joint stiffness to skin irritations. Some owners even swear it helps horses suffering from sarcoids.

Turmeric for horses: what is it used for?

Turmeric has long been prevalent in ancient Indian and Chinese medicines as a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant used by people suffering from a wide range of conditions, including diarrhoea, respiratory infections, dermatitis, and even cancerous tumours. Though more commonly used in the West as a condiment, there is growing awareness of its therapeutic properties.

Global Herbs, specialists in equine supplements, has been using turmeric in its products for many years. Both Flyfree, an anti-fly feed supplement that you can find on Viovet, and its Skratch products, a range formulated to support horses with skin conditions (also on Viovet), contain turmeric.

“Turmeric is suitable for horses suffering from stiff joints and itchy skin conditions, as well as offering support to the digestive system,” says Becky Darby, product advisor at Global Herbs. “A lot of people feed it to provide support to horses whose joints are under stress.”

Due to customer demand, the company then launched a turmeric supplement – Tumeric Gold, which is available from Viovet.

“Our supplement consists of pure powdered turmeric and black pepper, which aids absorption of the active ingredient into the body,” says Becky.

The main active ingredient in Turmeric is curcumin, a compound found to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects in humans. It is also a strong antioxidant, that is useful for soothing stiffness and pain, maintaining good digestion and alleviating skin conditions in people.

What’s the evidence that turmeric can help your horse?

However, it’s worth noting that there have been no definitive clinical trials to support turmeric’s medicinal impact or establish an effective dose for horses.

“There is no research into the safety and long-term effects of feeding turmeric,” advises equine nutritionist Zoe Davies. “Curcumin is well-studied in humans and has proven properties, but horse owners should be aware that it is not the only biologically active compound in turmeric.

“Turmeric only contains about 2½-3% of curcumin — experimental data suggests it could take as much as 250-500g turmeric to deliver an effective dose to a horse.

“Similarly, curcumin can affect iron metabolism in the horse’s body, which could contribute to development of anaemia. As such, turmeric isn’t advisable for horses with any kind of chronic disease or anaemia,” adds Zoe.

How should turmeric be fed?

If you do decide to feed turmeric to your horse, it might be beneficial to feed it in conjunction with one of the best oils for horses and black pepper to help the absorption of the herb into the system.

“We always recommend to mix it with flax oil – which is rich in omega oils and good for the joints and coat,” says Becky. “The quantity really depends on size of horse. For a horse of about 500kg, we would suggest a heaped tablespoon of turmeric per day (approx. 25mg), mixed into a paste with 2 tablespoons (approx. 50ml) of oil.”

As with any feed, turmeric should be introduced to the horse’s diet slowly, built up gradually over the course of a week or two. “For the fussy eater, you could add a little apple puree or juice to sweeten it up, but I am yet to come across a horse that won’t eat it,” says Becky.

NB: If you believe your horse is suffering from a medical problem, H&H recommends that you speak to your vet in the first instance for diagnosis. If your vet suggests that a nutritional supplement might be beneficial, then speak to a qualified equine nutritionist for advice.

Turmeric supplements: what’s on the market?

NB: Cost per day has been calculated using the maintenance measure for a 500kg horse in light work (where there was variation) and the RRP of the smallest available tub. Feeding larger amounts – for example, if you have a larger horse or need to feed a loading dose initially – will increase the cost per daily measure, while buying a larger tub will likely decrease it – these costs per day are a guide only.

Global Herbs Turmeric Gold

Sizes: 1.8kg

RRP: £15.50

Daily measure: 16g

Cost per day: £0.14

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or hyperdrug.co.uk

In the US? View now at amazon.com

NAF Turmeric Plus

Sizes: 2kg

RRP: £15.99

Daily measure: 36–54g

Cost per day: From £0.29

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, petdrugsonline.co.uk or hyperdrug.co.uk

In the US? View now at amazon.com

Dodson & Horrell Turmeric

Sizes: 2kg

RRP: £20.63

Daily measure: 30g

Cost per day: £0.31 

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or hyperdrug.co.uk

Equine America Turmeric Xtra

Sizes: 3kg

RRP: £20.99

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £0.35

In the UK? View now at equine-america.co.uk, amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com 

The Golden Paste Company TurmerAid

Sizes: 2kg, 15kg

RRP: £23.20 for 2kg

Daily measure: 50g

Cost per day: £0.58

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

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Supplements to help joints keep working at their best: what’s on the market?

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A website has renamed the product “Slut Mix” after a complaint to the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) was upheld — but the same product and description remain on other sites.

The product description stated that “Slut Mix does attract a fair bit of attention, not least because of the name! However, it’s a serious product that… really can work. If your mare is constantly in and out of season, aggressive and temperamental then this product has proved to be highly successful in easing the problem”.

The complainant who, the ASA said, “believed the ad, especially the name of the product, was sexist and perpetuated negative stereotypes of women, challenged whether it was offensive”.

LeMieux Ltd said it was a third-party stockist of the product, which was named by its manufacturer. The company told the ASA it did not advertise the product beyond its listing on the website, and asked the manufacturer to comment on the complaint.

“The manufacturer said ‘slut’ was a term commonly used by horse trainers to refer to a problem filly,” the ASA ruling states. “They said that the product was exclusively for horses and they did not intend to cause offence to people. They said that the product had been on sale since 2000 and was sold in 15 countries.”

In upholding the complaint, the ASA noted that customers would know the product was for horses.

“However, the term ‘slut’ was a well-known negative stereotype of women and was commonly used to refer to women who had or were perceived to have many sexual partners, in a derogatory way that passed judgment on those behaviours,” the ASA stated. “We considered that, even in the context of an ad for horse supplements, consumers were likely to consider the word ‘slut’ to be highly offensive, derogatory towards women and sexist. For those reasons, we concluded that the ad, which included an offensive gender stereotype, was likely to cause serious offence.”

The ASA ruled that the ad must not appear again in its current form, adding: “We told LeMieux Ltd to ensure that their future ads did not contain anything that was likely to cause serious or widespread offence, including the use of offensive gender stereotypes.”

A LeMieux spokesman told H&H: “We are a third-party stockist of this product and have renamed it on our website to Mare Mix in recognition of the negative connotations associated with the original product name.”

The product is still on sale elsewhere, still named Slut Mix and with the original description. Manufacturer Herbal Wise declined to comment when approached by H&H.

The ASA told H&H it will be in touch with other sites on which the product is still named Slut Mix, with the original description, to let them know they must change the wording in accordance with the ruling. As the product is made in Ireland, it would be up to the ASA for Ireland to decide whether it breaches rules there.

“We encourage anyone with concerns about any ads they’ve seen to get in touch,” the spokesman said.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The use of probiotics for horses can be beneficial when a horse is convalescing after illness, or his digestive system is being exposed to the stress of competition or changes to routine. However, only a small number of studies support the use of probiotics in horses and therefore consulting both a vet and nutritionist is a wise course of action before adding to the feed indiscriminately.

Stress alters the level of acidity in both the upper gut (small intestine) and hind gut (caecum and colon) allowing opportunistic “bad” or non-beneficial bacteria to multiply and overwhelm the “good” bacteria.

If left unchecked in the horse’s small intestine, bad bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. Coli, can cause health problems.

Probiotics consist of various naturally occurring lactic acid-producing bacteria that encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria already present in the horse’s small intestine. Essentially they deliver live bacteria to your horse’s digestive tract, ideally colonising the digestive tract and helping improve your horse’s overall health and digestion. Probiotics may help maintain proper pH levels, absorption of nutrients, feed efficiency and immune health. Adding them to the feed can be helpful in horses that have difficulty maintaining weight, are susceptible to hindgut issues, or are prone to loose stools.

H&H vet Karen Coumbe points out: “Many years ago we use to feed live yoghurt and historically horses were stomach tubed with gut contents from another horse, but now there are products that can be easily administered as pastes [or powders]. The key thing is for horses to have healthy bacteria and other micro-organisms in their hindgut to help fermentation and digestion.”

How probiotics work on horses

Probiotics work in three ways:

• Rebalance acid levels in the small intestine
• Use the food needed by bad bacteria
• Prevent bad bacteria from colonising the horse’s gut wall.

They also:

• Protect against the effects of stress
• Boost the immune system
• Reduce side-effects of antibiotics
• Protect against gastric problems
• Promote efficient digestion
• Increase milk in lactating mares.

Choosing a probiotic for horses

There is a big difference between probiotics and feed balancers.

A probiotic is a mixture of live bacteria designed for the upper gut to improve its efficiency and is fed in grammes per day. They often feature in gut balancers and digestive supplements for horses.

A feed balancer is a complete feed that contains vitamins, minerals, cereals and protein sources to balance any forage deficiencies. The recommended feeding level is usually 1kg per day. Often they contain yeasts, as do other feeds that are recommended to be fed at higher levels.

The equine industry often describes lactic acid-producing bacteria supplements that help the upper gut as probiotics. Yeast cultures (which are also technically probiotics) help the function of the horse’s hind gut. Both need to be fed for relatively short periods. Choose a product that targets the part of the gut you want it to.

Karen Coumbe says that choosing a probiotic should be done judiciously, as it is not always easy to tell if a product works.

“Unless they are prescription medicines, controls are less strict and it is hard to be sure what the contents include or how efficacious they are,” she says. “I would suggest owners need to look at overall horse health to include good diet, as normal an environment/diet as possible, for example: turn-out, grazing and limited rich concentrate feeds, minimise use of antibiotics that may affect gut health.

“I would also ensure sensible parasitic worm control with regular faecal worm egg counts and pasture hygiene (poo picking) rather than routinely using dewormer medications that can lead worms to build up resistance to such medication and potentially have other harmful effects.”

What are prebiotics?

Some formulas contain both probiotics and prebiotics. The difference between the two is that prebiotics do not introduce new bacteria to the horse’s digestive tract. However, prebiotics do promote the health and growth of micro-organisms already living there. They essentially act as a food source for your horse’s existing gut microbes.

Probiotics contain live bacteria, essential for a healthy gut, while prebiotics basically provide food for these “good bacteria”.

You may also be interested to read…

16 gut balancers on the market – and how to choose the best for your horse

How to choose the right feed balancer for your horse

How are feed balancers different to vitamin and mineral supplements?

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Adding one of the best oils for horses to your horse’s feed is a low-cost supplement, however it’s important to understand the reasons for including it, the benefits and which oils are best. Horses digest oil well, and it is a concentrated source of calories that can help horses gain weight while providing slow-release energy. While oil can be an appropriate energy source for excitable horses who might hot up on traditional starch-based diets, conversely it’s not recommended for overweight horses or good-doers. Additionally, a high-oil diet should be balanced with antioxidants (usually vitamin E) to minimise oxidative damage.

The benefits of oil

• To provide essential fatty acids (EFAs), which are useful for general health and vitality
• To add body condition. Oil is very energy dense, having nearly three times the number of calories as carbohydrate. Just 300ml of oil provides the same amount of calories as a kilo of oats. As it is easily digested and absorbed, it is an excellent way to maintain weight
• As an energy source. Oil is a very accessible source of muscle fuel for horses, particularly those in endurance-type work. Due to its relatively slow breakdown, it’s ideal for horses that tend to “fizz up” or tie-up on cereal starch, also avoiding other health risks associated with cereal diets, such as gastric ulcers and laminitis
• To boost coat condition in healthy horses
• To relieve stiff joints and arthritis in older horses. However, oil levels should be reduced if the horse has liver problems.

Does my horse need extra oil?

If your horse is prone to weight gain, then definitely not. However, for horses needing to put on weight it is a great way of increasing the calories and providing slow-release energy when his maximum meal size has been reached, or you want to go easy on the starch content.

“If you have a horse that struggles with weight gain, has a small appetite or is a picky eater, adding oil can work really well to help keep meal sizes small but pack in the calories to help with weight gain,” says Saracen nutritionist Stephanie George. “But additional oil isn’t necessary for all horses as it is so calorie-dense, so consider the type of horse you have before adding it to the diet.”

NAF head nutritionist Kate Hore points out that “in the horse’s natural diet, grass is actually a great source of omega fatty acids”.

“Grass contains around 3–5% fat, and provides more Omega 3 than Omega 6, which is preferable, which explains why our horses’ coats naturally shine in summer,” she says. “Levels are lower in preserved forage and poor in cereals. Therefore, particularly if your horse does not have access to fresh grass growth, adding a little oil to the diet can be advised.”

Some horses may benefit from added oil to support their skin and coat health, if they do not already have a skin and coat supplement. Spillers nutritionist Sarah Nelson says: “Although there’s no substitute for a balanced diet and good grooming, a small amount of oil can be the icing on the cake for achieving the ultimate show ring shine.”

Sarah points out that, “if fed the appropriate amount of feed and/or feed balancer, many horses don’t need additional oil”, and warns that the “difference in cost between adding larger amounts of oil and switching to a higher oil feed may be negligible”.

Which oil should I feed?

Some owners buy their horse’s oil at the supermarket while others choose specialist feed merchants. There’s a bewildering array of linseed, rapeseed, sunflower, soya and marine – which is best?

“All oils are definitely not created equal,” says Kate. “They all provide the same energy density but differ in their ratios of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Omega 3 is naturally anti-inflammatory, while Omega 6 is pro-inflammatory, although that isn’t always a bad thing, such as in triggering immune responses to speed up wound healing. However, we definitely want a positive ratio with more Omega 3 than 6.”

Kate acknowledges that although marine oil, such as cod liver, is good for joint health, “not all of use choose to feed it to horses, whether on ethical grounds of over-fishing, or that we don’t believe it be part of the natural equine diet”.

“At NAF, we advise either choosing linseed, which is naturally high in Omega 3, or a linseed-based Omega blend, to give a positive ratio with more Omega 3 than 6 but the benefits of both. Supermarket vegetable oil is nearly always rapeseed or sunflower, and both are very low in Omega 3 and middling to high in Omega 6. The balance is pro-inflammatory, certainly not the way we want to go.”

Spillers’ Sarah Nelson says: “Some owners prefer linseed oil [because of the Omega ratios] but the ideal Omega 3: Omega 6 ratio has not been established in horses. Some horses also find linseed oil less palatable. The quality of the oil fed (it should be human-grade) is more important than type, with corn, rapeseed and linseed all being suitable options. Regardless of the type of oil you choose, speak to a nutritionist before feeding more than 100ml/day to ensure your horse’s diet provides a sufficient level of vitamin E.”

The main reason for not buying your horse’s oil in the supermarket is because of the risk of contamination.

“We cannot expect the supermarket to be concerned about a positive test in a competition horse, and they won’t be monitoring for Naturally Occurring Prohibited Substances [NOPS] so the risk of accidental contamination is always there,” warns Kate, while Sarah adds: “If your horse is competing, opt for an equine product that is BETA NOPS approved.”

However, it’s worth remembering that oil doesn’t just come in a bottle. Pellet oil in a rice-bran supplement, such as Saracen’s Equi-Jewel (which you can find on Amazon), may be a better choice for those feeding a lot of oil.

“It takes the messiness away from feeding large quantities of oil and helps increase palatability,” says Stephanie. “Liquid oil goes rancid quickly when exposed to air and light, whereas pelleted oil is stabilised, so it keeps for longer.”

Specialist forms of oil in pelleted options and fish oil specifically for horses are available in feed stores.

How much oil should I feed?

Spillers recommend adding oil at a rate of up to 100ml per 100kg bodyweight (500ml per day for a 500kg horse). However, although horses metabolise oil well, you must always introduce additional oil gradually, approximately 100ml per week as a guide.

It can take up to 12 weeks for horses to adapt to a high-oil diet.

A high-oil diet must be balanced with antioxidants, such as vitamin E. NAF recommends 1 IU (international unit) of supplementary vitamin E for every millilitre of oil fed.

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H&H finds out which substances may be added to the FEI’s prohibited list, what that may mean for riders and what the industry’s response is to the proposals

CONCERNS have been raised about a proposed change to the FEI equine prohibited substances list that could mean a widely used herb is no longer allowed under competition rules.

The FEI has reviewed the list and proposed changes include the addition of chasteberry (vitex agnus-castus) as a controlled substance, making banned substance cannabidiol a controlled medication, and banning 32 antihistamines.

The FEI’s list group, made up of 10 members including vets, pharmacologists and researchers, proposed that chasteberry should fall under the definition of a controlled substance. Controlled medications are substances deemed to have therapeutic value and/or be commonly used in equine medicine. They should not be present in a horse during a competition under FEI rules, without a valid veterinary form. Chasteberry is used in many supplements aimed at helping mares with hormone-related behaviour issues.

“At this stage, it is a proposal and following the thorough consultation and review process which is currently under way with the national federations and stakeholders. A final decision will be published on 1 October 2021 and any accepted changes will come into effect as of 1 January 2022,” said an FEI spokesman.

British Equestrian director of equine sports science and medicine John McEwen told H&H BEF is reviewing the proposal with member bodies, stakeholders and veterinary representatives.

“The proposal is complex and therefore is reliant on input from several parties so the best interests of all concerned are represented,” he said. “At this stage, it’s too early in the process to make any specific observations but we will make a full submission to the FEI in due course.”

The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), through its feed committee, is preparing a case to put to the FEI.

“We have asked initially for an indication of the reasons behind it being added to the list. It is a feed material listed on the UK register of feed materials and used primarily to help support hormone balance in order to reduce behavioural signs associated with oestrous,” BETA executive director Claire Williams told H&H.

“The concern is that should the herb be placed on the list of controlled medications, mares would no longer be able to compete while being fed products containing it.”

Ms Williams said BETA had noted some other changes to the list that are “of interest” to the feed sector but none that have the “potential impact” that chasteberry would.

Equine supplements and products brand NAF, which uses chasteberry in some supplements, is working as part of the BETA feed committee and is “disappointed” about the inclusion of chasteberry.

“We note the FEI has raised concerns about its use in regulating mares’ behaviour. However, that makes the decision all the more difficult to understand, given the FEI allows the control of mare’s behaviour through use of altrenogest Regumate,” NAF head nutritionist Kate Hore told H&H.

“Given the considerable, and recognised, risks to equine carers – most notably women, but men – from skin exposure to altrenogest, we feel it would be a negative move by the FEI to be moving riders from chasteberry, which carries no known risks, over to altrenogest.”

“If riders, or grooms, are concerned about the proposal we would advise them to put those concerns directly to BEF, as soon as possible, so those concerns can be passed to the FEI.”

A spokesman for Nettex Equine, which uses chasteberry in a supplement, said the company is aware of the proposals and is working closely with BETA.

“Nettex Equine will continue to monitor these developments and will respond accordingly in due course,” he said.

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An equine supplement company is to cut down on its use of plastics by shipping its products in paper pouches that can completely biodegrade on a muck heap in four to six weeks.

Hack Up is discontinuing its plastic tubs, and will now sell the bespoke supplements in 1kg heat-sealed wax paper bags, which are available with a retro-style tin pail for secure storage.

“I thought selling supplements in a recyclable plastic pot was ethical, but when I looked into recycling further I discovered the majority of supplement pots require specialist recycling that isn’t done by local councils,” explained Jayne Gingell, who co-founded Hack Up with her husband Alex.

“We ship four to five pallets a month, so I was devastated when I realised. The idea that the pots might be put into landfill or end up in the sea appalled us.”

Jayne decided she wanted the company to eliminate plastics altogether and after a “blue sky meeting” — where the idea of an edible bag was initially put forward — it was decided to opt for the “waste free” biodegradable pouches.

“I was using a retro Oxo tin at home and it gave me the idea to create a rodent-proof storage pail as well,” Jayne added. “Tin will disappear in 50 years, unlike plastics, but it will also be useful for years. Fortunately the supplier of our packaging also happened to be the one of the biggest suppliers of tins for paints and liquids, so they were able to make some for us.”

Jayne said that the company had also been able to absorb the costs of the packaging switch, so the move to biodegradeable pouches — which have an oxidising accelerator in the lining, meaning they degrade faster than paper — would not be passed on to customers.

“We’ve also teamed up with a new carrier which is launching biodegradeable plastic bags, which helped with the costs,” she said.

Hack Up sells its products directly to customers across its web platform and they are tailor-made for each individual horse.

“Right from the start we were conscious that if we delivered directly to the consumer, we massively reduced product miles and would be greener,” Jayne said. “It also enables us to nurture our relationships with our customers.

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“I think in times of recession people want to go back to more natural ways of doing things,” she added.

Hack Up offers a “buy and book” system where fresh supplies of supplements are automatically delivered when the customer’s supplies start to run low. Customers on this scheme can currently get a free tin pail with their order, while other customers can use loyalty points to “buy” one.

The amount of plastic waste generated annually in the UK is estimated to be around 5million tonnes, with the typical family throwing away 40kg a year. Around 75% of this is thought to be sent to landfill, where it can take up to 500 years to decompose.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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Feeding supplements to horses is negligent, the FEI has reiterated after two dressage horses failed dope tests, owing to the possibility of contamination or the fact ingredients lists may not be accurate.

US riders Kaitlin Blythe and Adrienne Lyle’s rides, Don Principe and Horizon respectively, both tested positive for banned substance ractopamine at a show in Wellington, Florida, in February 2017.

As stated in its report published last month the FEI Tribunal ruled that although the presence of banned substance ractopamine was caused by contamination of a supplement fed to both horses, and that neither rider bore “significant fault or negligence” for the positive results, the FEI stated it is “of the opinion that by using a supplement in the first place, the PR [person responsible; the rider] is already negligent”.

“One cannot claim that the PR is totally without fault, since she actually used a supplement on which they had carried out no research on,” it stated.

The tribunal heard both horses were fed a supplement called Soothing Pink, made by Cargill Inc which admitted responsibility and found by testing that the supplement the horses had been fed before the test date was contaminated by ractopamine, a drug that reduces fat content in animals reared for meat.

Cargill then withdrew the supplement from the market and has discontinued the use of appetin, an ingredient of Soothing Pink found to be the cause of the contamination.

The tribunal report states that both riders and the horses’ owners “took responsible measures to ensure their horses were not exposed to banned substances”.

“All four individuals were well acquainted with the warnings issued by both the [US equestrian federation] and the FEI regarding the administration of supplements to horses, and all four followed every reasonable step to guard against the risks those warnings address,” said the report.

“Indeed, both Horizon and Don Principe had been drug-tested before February 2017 while on the same feed and supplement diet as they used in February 2017 and they never tested positive. The difference, we now know, is that a limited quantity of Soothing Pink was accidentally contaminated before it left Cargill, and the four individuals charged in these cases were unfortunate recipients of that accidentally tainted product.”

The report added in both cases that: “The FEI does not doubt the fact the PR is a very good person with good intentions in relation to her horses, who is in a very difficult situation.”

The PRs and the FEI reached agreement with the FEI by which each rider has to pay a fine of 3,000 Swiss francs (£2,414) as well as their own legal costs, and was suspended for three months, backdated to 2017.

The riders both accepted the penalties but do not agree they were negligent in feeding the supplement, as they “firmly believe” they “did no wrong”, and accepted the settlement agreement in order to put the incident behind them and incur no further costs or disruption.

In a warning over the use of supplements, referred to in the tribunal report, the FEI states that PRs are responsible for whatever their horses ingest, that elimination of suspensions on the base of “no fault or negligence” does not apply if the presence of the substance concerned comes from a “mislabelled or contaminated supplement”.

The warning adds that PRs should “be aware that it is not unusual for supplements, herbal remedies etc. marketed within the equine industry or over the internet to contain banned substances or controlled medication substances that are not disclosed on the product label.

“It is also possible that those substances are contained in different amounts in the supplement, herbal remedy, etc than stated on the label, or the product used may have been inadvertently contaminated with a banned or controlled medication substance.

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“There is no guarantee that the ingredients list on any supplement, herbal remedy etc. is accurate.”

The statement concludes: “The FEI’s message is: ‘If in any doubt, do not give it to your horse’.”

Read the reports on Don Principe and Horizon, and the FEI warning, in full.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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Feed supplement additive MSM has been removed from the FEI’s prohibited substance list after a U-turn by the international federation.

Confusion had been caused by the inclusion of MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane), under its seldom-used alias dimethy sulphone (DSM), on the FEI’s list as a controlled medication and specified substance from 1 January next year.

The FEI told H&H in June that the naturally occurring substance, which is found in many plants and widely used in equine feed and supplements, is also the major metabolite of banned chemical DMSO, or the substance into which this solvent is broken down in the body.

A spokesman said high levels of MSM could “indicate abuse of DMSO that would be detectable for a longer time after administration”, but that it was unlikely that its therapeutic use at normal levels would cause a positive test.

But after the British Equestrian Trade Association’s (BETA) “extensive lobbying”, supported by leading supplement manufacturer NAF, the FEI has this week released an update to its prohibited substances, stating that MSM is to be removed from the list.

“The BETA feed committee provided extensive technical evidence to support our belief that defining MSM in this way could have had a significant and potentially negative impact on the industry,” said BETA executive director Claire Williams.

“We are delighted that our challenge proved compelling enough for the FEI to reconsider its decision and change the list.”

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NAF founder and chairman Richard Cleeve told H&H: “We are delighted that the FEI has come to the right conclusion and we’re very happy that MSM can continue to be fed as an approved supplement.

“Thank you to the team at NAF and the BETA feed committee for their efforts in yielding this result.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

We realise that everyone may need a bit of cheering up in January so we’ve put together a list of new products for you to check out. They say retail therapy works wonders. This month’s new to the market round up features products from NAF, Ju Et Pa, Mujjo, Ariat and Veredus.

NAF Recover

This antioxidant formula aims to relax muscles and is ideal after strenuous exercise and competition in order to support the horse’s natural recovery process. Fed as a five day course NAF Recover helps to ensure the horse’s mobility and athletic potential is maintained.

RRP: £15 for a 5 day course.

Visit: www.naf-equine.eu/uk or call 08003 73106

Ju Et Pa Julie coat

Premium retailers Dressage Deluxe are delighted to welcome Ju Et Pa to their virtual shop floor. Ju Et Pa’s Julie coat is a gorgeous statement piece from the collection. It features a flattering quilted section with designer detailing for a sliming effect. This water resistant jacket also has a luxurious soft fur trim for an après ski feel. The clever zip details on the cuffs also ensure that you don’t have to remove your gloves to take off the jacket.

RRP: £259

Visit: www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk or call 08003 213001

Mujjo leather touchscreen gloves

These new lambskin gloves from Mujjo are touchscreen friendly and allow riders to utilise the palm of their hand and all fingers. Powered by state of the art nanotechnology, which mimics the conductive properties of the human skin, Mujjo’s touchscreen gloves offer an unrestricted touchscreen experience. The technology functions independently from the human skin which enables Mujjo to fully insulate the gloves with a soft and warm cashmere lining.

RRP: €99.95 worldwide shipping

Visit: www.mujjo.com 

Ariat luggage collection

Whether travelling to an equestrian event, transporting essentials, or heading off on holiday, Ariat’s new luggage collection makes light of staying organised. This smart looking collection has been designed to be practical and is made from a durable nylon outer. The collection features leather trims and a beautiful branded lining. The equine enthusiast will adore the hat and boot bag. The hat bag features an extra pocket with a simple magnetic closure for easy access. The boot bag has brass ventilation detailing to allow your riding boots to breathe and an inner divider to separate footwear.

RRP: £39.99 (hat bag) and £59.99 (boot bag)

Visit: www.ariat.com or telephone 01367 242818

 Pro-jump short Vento boots from Veredus

If you’re seeking maximum performance boots that are combined with the ultimate protection for your horse when jumping, look no further. These innovative, functional fetlock boots help to improve performance thanks to their effect on the horse’s hind leg action. The anatomically shaped guard protects the fetlock, while the Vento system, characterised by double ventilation, keeps the horse’s tendons cool as the heat is channelled to the outside by the 3D mesh ducted fabric. The boots are waterproof and come in a Velcro or elastic strap option.

RRP: £115

Visit: www.zebraproducts.co.uk or call 01352 763350

This week's new to the market round up features products from Nedz, Ariat, By Sikora, Equus Health and Breyer.

Nedz bedding

A stable furnished with Nedz bedding provides more than just superficial comfort for your equine love. New research shows that bedding is significant, in fact, the greater the surface area of soft bedding available — that is, the size of the area that is bedded — the more time horses spend lying down. As an additional benefit, all Nedz bedding features the organic Natural Nedz formula. The organic formula supports your equine’s health and helps promote a hygienic environment for them to be stabled on.

Visit: www.amazon.co.uk 

Ariat Heritage Ellipse limited edition boots

Using their technical expertise and experience in manufacturing performance footwear, Ariat are excited to launch their new Heritage Ellipse Limited Edition Boots for an impressive 2016 competition season – whether viewed from the saddle or the judging box. The Heritage Ellipse limited edition feature a high Spanish cut topline with on-trend Snake or Ostrich print cuff, ensuring these boots stand out in the saddle. The perfect boot for trend-setting riders, these boots will only available for a limited time – making them a unique fashion investment and guaranteed to create a stir.

Visit: www.tallyhofarm.co.uk 

Quirky sheepskin inspired by heritage

These British sheepskin products are the perfect accessories to tackle any winter. Featuring a variety of comfortable, warm and stylish British sheepskin items including hloves, headbands, scarves, slippers and other accessories, By Sikora provides high quality products at a fair price whilst also supporting small producers. Johanna’s pick for this winter are By Sikora’s stunning British sheepskin fingerless embossed gloves. Bringing a little style to any outfit, these gloves are both practical and warm. Made from 100% twin faced Sheepskin in a rich caramel colour which is embossed with a ‘wild rose’ pattern.

Visit: www.bysikora.co.uk

Healthy Gut from Equus Health

Healthy Gut contains pure live yeast. Pure live yeast is scientifically proven to aid digestion. The yeast works as a probiotic helping balance the microbes in the gastro-intestinal tract. Healthy Gut ensures the yeast reaches the large intestine (also known as the hind gut), where two thirds of horse’s energy comes from the fermentation of fibre. Designed to be fed daily, Healthy Gut is approved by the EU for feeding to horses of all ages and offers excellent value for money.

Visit: www.equushealth.org.uk or call 0845 6809893

Breyer’s Valegro portrait model

The Breyer portrait model of Valegro is a dynamic new sculpture created in his likeness by sculptor Brigitte Eberl. It will be available at Olympia at the Equestrian Book Fair Stand and TC Tack. Carl Hester will autograph Breyer Valegro models at the Equestrian Book Fair Stand at a time to be announced.

Visit: www.hottotrotmodelhorses.co.uk 

This week's new to the market round up features products from Woof Wear, British Equine, Kanyon Outdoor, Ariat and Fleck.

Young Horse Compliant Showjumping Boots

These lightweight, breathable showjumping boots offer superb protection against strike injuries to the vulnerable tendon and fetlock areas while allowing unrestricted movement of the joints. Great for use on every yard, the Pro Showjumping boots are suitable for day-to-day schooling to top-level competition with the fetlock boots meeting FEI Young Horse Compliancy regulations. Available in black or white.

RRP: £40 (tendon), £25 (fetlock)

Visit: www.woofwear.com

Proto-Flex horse collagen

Equine collagen is a natural feed supplement to maintain and support joint mobility and aid muscular repair. At British Equine we have developed a scientifically formulated collagen peptide, which is designed to promote joint health and aid muscular and connective tissue repair in horses, the result is Proto-Flex. This hydrolysed collagen peptide is a unique formulation that will change the way you supplement your horses joint health.

RRP: from £29.99

Visit: www.british-equine.co.uk

Gorse X-Rider

This premium waterproof country riding boot from Kanyon Outdoor is available in brown or black full grain leather with a K-Dry lining up to the calf panel, allowing the foot to breathe naturally yet remain waterproof. It is available in three calf fittings for the perfect fit and optimum comfort so they look great, feel great and are built to last.

RRP: from £139.95

Visit: www.kanyonoutdoor.com

Ariat Muse Down Coat

If you are looking for something super cosy, stylish and practical then look no further than the Ariat Muse Down Coat. The three quarter length style offers great protection against the elements with its water and wind resistant outer, meanwhile the super snug channel quilted down insulation is not only flattering but most importantly traps warmth in to prevent the cold from taking its toll. Features include a fashionable flannel trim, inner storm cuff, zippered hand pockets and a 2-way zipper making it comfortable and easy to wear, whether you are hitting the high street or embracing the countryside.

RRP: £159.99Visit: www.ariat.com or call 01367 242818

Carbon Composite Dressage Whip from Fleck

The new Carbon Composite dressage whip, made from high-tech carbon material, weighs less than 50 grams – making it perfect for riders who seek effortless handling. It’s slim design and non-slip PU grip helps to ensure perfect balance, all in all aiding a relaxed ride. The Carbon Composite dressage whip is available in black and in lengths from 100-140cm.

 RRP: £26

Visit: www.zebraproducts.co.uk or call 01352 763350

Rider Repair Pure Collagen

Rider Repair is a special blend of type I and III collagen designed specifically for athletes and riders. Collagen is a simple protein made up of amino acids, responsible for skin support, firmness elasticity and the production of new skin cells.

RRP: £29.99 (90 tablets)

Visit: www.british-equine.co.uk

The FEI has warned against using the muscle stimulant Fustex, which may contain the banned substance propoxyphene, a narcotic pain reliever.

Fustex is made by the Argentinian online seller Chinfield S.A.

Propoxyphene was not listed in product information at the time of a doping offence involving Emirati endurance rider Sheikh Hazza Al Nayhan, but was detected in a Fustex sample tested for the FEI by the Horseracing Forensic Laboratory.

Last month, the Court of Arbitration for Sport reduced Sheikh Hazza’s 27-month ban to 18 months after being persuaded of his yard’s efforts to avoid this kind of issue.

The FEI said that in future, “lack of knowledge regarding the ingredients of Fustex will not be a valid excuse in any equine anti-doping procedures.”

Earlier this year the FEI tightened up legal loopholes over supplements, highlighted in the Jock Paget and Kevin McNab case where the provider of the herbal supplement LessStressE admitted he made it on his kitchen table with no product controls.

LessStressE was deemed the source of the banned sedative reserpine, to which both riders’ horses tested positive at Burghley 2013.

The FEI says supplements and herbal remedies can contain prohibited substances not mentioned on the label, or in different amounts to those listed, and underlines that accidental contamination will no longer let riders off the hook.

“Persons Responsible [the rider] are responsible for what their horses ingest and they are, therefore, responsible for any substance found in a sample,” said a spokesman.

“A contaminated supplement will not excuse a positive doping test.

“If in any doubt, do not give it to your horse’.”

The first person exonerated of blame by the FEI Tribunal on grounds of contamination was British endurance rider Christine Yeoman, who in 2010 traced the source of pig fattener ractopamine in her over-the-counter supplement to a feedstuffs plant in the US.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Spring has sprung so it's time to get prepared for the risk of laminitis as the grass starts to grow. Here is a selection of laminitis supplements and other products to help you stay one step ahead

Equilibrium Products Vitamunch

Vitamunch is a unique healthy, high fibre, low calorie, low sugar, cereal-free fortified snack that can be enjoyed at any time. The quality assured fibre, low calorie, low sugar composition plus added vitamins and minerals fit with published dietary recommendations for laminitic horses and ponies. Vitamunch is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, together with added horse-favourite herbs. Each vitamunch provides at least 50% of published daily vitamin and mineral requirements. A perfect boredom breaker without added sugar, the compressed block encourages nibbling. Eating time can be extended further when fed in the munch net. Two flavours available: Vitamunch heavenly hedgerow with added rosehips, hawthorn leaf and cleavers and Vitamunch marvellous meadow with added dandelion, red clover and nettle.

RRP: £2.95 (munch net RRP: £2.95)

Visit: www.equilibriumproducts.com, email info@equilibriumproducts.com or call 01442 879115

High Fibre HorseHage

High Fibre HorseHage is a dust-free, bagged forage made from selected ryegrasses which have been allowed to mature before harvesting to attain higher fibre, lower protein and lower energy levels. Being lower in sugar than most hays, High Fibre HorseHage carries the hoof kind logo to show that it is safe to feed to laminitics.

RRP: £7.75 per compressed bale

Visit: www.horsehage.co.uk or call 01803 527257

Verdo horse bedding

Standing on wet, soiled bedding can compromise foot health and dusty bedding can also aggravate respiratory conditions. Fortunately Verdo horse bedding, the clever heat treated 100% virgin soft wood pellet bedding goes that extra mile to helping ensure that your horse or pony has a dry, comfortable and low dust bed day and night. The bedding absorbs three times is own weight in liquid and because the bedding created from the activated pellets becomes light and fluffy, unlike traditional bedding, Verdo “contains” the wet as opposed to it sinking down through the bedding and along the floor. This not only helps maintain a dry environment, but also helps reduces ammonia, which again helps ensure that your horse is happier and healthier in the stable. Verdo horse bedding also boasts a low dust content, making it the ideal choice for horses with respiratory issues. It comes in compact, easy to store bags, which once a small amount of water is added to the bag, a regeneration process is activated and within approximately 15 minutes, you are ready to empty the open bags out into the stable to create a soft fluffy and dry bed ready for your equine friend.

RRP: From £5.65

Visit: www.verdohorsebedding.co.uk or call 01264 726 760

Vitex4 Equids

Cushing’s Disease is a common predisposing cause of laminitis in equids. Vitex4 Equids is The Laminitis Clinic’s method of choice in helping combat Cushing’s Disease. Vitex4 Equids is very palatable and has no known side-effects, available in 2.5 litre and 5 litre containers. A 2.5 litre supply of Vitex4 Equids will last a 360kg bodyweight pony for 42 days at an administration rate of 60 ml per day in the feed.

RRP: From £39.99

Visit: www.equilife.co.uk or call 01249-890784

Animalife Vetrofen Healthy

Vetrofen Healthy is a new supplement designed to give everyday support to comfort and mobility in active or ageing horses. Vetrofen Healthy is a proprietary blend of three plant sources known for their effective plant antioxidant support. The supplement supports comfort and mobility by uniquely addressing the supply of dietary antioxidants to the metabolic processes involved. It harnesses the power of specific plant phytochemicals from natural sources. Each work synergistically to provide support to key areas where antioxidant support is required on a daily basis — in the joints and muscles, and immune system. The concentrated and varied antioxidant profile of Vetrofen Healthy works to promotes overall wellbeing and quality of life of your horse. Great for keeping the active or ageing horse comfortable and happy. The product is free from banned substances and does not contain devil’s claw. The unique formulation is available in 120g and 360g tubs.

RRP: from £19.99

Visit: www.animalife.co.uk or call 0845 365 0050

LaminShield Pure

LaminShield Pure is made using bioplex, copper, sulphur, iron and magnesium and comes in the form of individual sachets. Magnesium is an important part in hundreds of body processes and a deficiency can lead to a number of health issues. The other ingredients help to support hoof health and overall body condition.

RRP: £30.24 for 28 sachets

Visit: www.rockies.co.uk or call 01606 595025

Nettex Gut Balancer

Research has shown that feeding pre and pro biotics after bouts of laminitis can be beneficial to restoring the balance of the gastrointestinal tract. Nettex Gut Balancer contains pre and pro biotics and is formulated using the highest grade ingredients. It is unique as it contains diamond V, a concentrated yeast culture. Diamond V can complement and enhance feed digestibility, palatability, fibre digestion and overall health efficiently and quickly.

RRP: from £16.99

Visit: www.nettexequine.com or call 01634 257150

Equi Life WeighTape

WeighTape enables you to measure your horse’s weight for dosing purposes by simply placing the tape around his trunk. Alternatively you can use a formula written on the tape. Suitable for horses and ponies, the WeighTape makes it easy for you to keep your horse at the correct condition score when trying to avoid laminitis.

RRP: £5.10

Visit: www.equilife.co.uk or call 01249 890784

Allen & Page Fast Fibre

Allen & Page’s Fast Fibre is ideally suited to overweight horses and ponies, or those prone to laminitis as it is formulated without barley and molasses.

RRP: From £7.90

Visit: www.allenandpage.com

TopSpec AntiLam

TopSpec AntiLam is a palatable, pelleted multi-supplement designed to provide nutritional support for those susceptible to, being treated for, and recovering from laminitis. The high fibre base includes a broad spectrum supplement, therapeutic hoof supplement and pure, protected yeast which creates beneficial conditions for the growth of fibre-digesting bacteria in the hindgut.

RRP: £26.95

Visit: www.topspec.com or call 01845 565030

Horse and Pony Direct Low Calorie Feed Balancer

Horse and Pony Direct’s Low Calorie Feed Balancer is whole cereal and molasses free making it very low in sugar and starch so it is ideal for laminitis-prone or overweight horses and ponies. It contains all the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients that your horse or pony requires on a daily basis.

RRP: £19.99

Visit: www.horseandponydirect.com or call 0844 2472144

Nupafeed Staying Power

Formulated to help boost stamina in horses and ponies that tire easily. Staying power supports healthy energy metabolism making it ideal for those that require a restricted diet. It is easy and flexible to feed.

RRP: £39

Visit: www.nupafeed.co.uk, call 01438 861 900 or email info@nupafeed.net

Absorbine Hooflex Magic Cushion

Absorbine Hooflex Magic Cushion hoof packing is an efficient way to cool and cushion bruised soles and sore feet and brings comfort for horses and ponies suffering from laminitis. Thermography tests show that the all-natural formula starts working to reduce heat in hooves in just one hour.

RRP: from £50

Visit: www.absorbine.co.uk

Fine Fettle Feed Happy Tummy

Historically, charcoal has been used as a detoxifier and Happy Tummy charcoal is ideal for laminitis prone horses when fed on a regular basis. It is also suitable if your horse is already suffering from laminitis.

RRP: from £20.50

Visit: www.finefettlefeed.com or call 01600 712496

Speedi-Beet

Speedi-Beet is a highly nutritious micronized (cooked) beet pulp feed which provides an excellent source of digestible fibre and is approved by The Laminitis Trust. Due to its unique manufacturing process, Speedi-Beet can be soaked and ready to use in just 10 minutes. Stabilise the ingestion of sugars present in spring grass when Speedi-Beet is fed before turnout.

RRP: from £10.95

Visit: www.britishhorsefeeds.com or call 01765 680300

Pernamax Equine tablets

Pernamax Equine tablets contain a patented green lipped mussel extract called SuPerna, which has a unique profile of Omega 3 ETA fatty acids. These fatty acids are known for their potent soothing properties, which support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory processes. Pernamax equine tablets can be used as a natural alternative to Bute.

RRP: from £26.95

Visit: www.maxavita.com or call 08450 752754

FMBs Therapy Systems Activo-med Hoof Boot

The Activo-med Hoof Boot combines pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) and massage in one product designed specifically for hooves. It can be used for a number of conditions including inflammation, concussion, ligament and tendon damage and more.

RRP: many configurations are available, and the product is also available to hire.

Visit: www.fmbs.co.uk or call 01494 883433

Veterinary Thermal Imaging hoof scan

Veterinary Thermal Imaging uses state of the art infra red cameras to map heat patterns across the horse’s hoof. The scan can assist with the detection and management of a range of issues, including laminitis, which can then be treated by a vet. This non-invasive service is completely mobile and doesn’t require the horse to be sedated.

RRP: £40 plus travel per pair of feet

Visit: www.veterinary-thermal-imaging.com or call 0844 544 3314

Equine America Lamigard TRT Pellets

This is a highly effective supplement for horses and ponies and can be used at high levels in the short term, and at a maintenance level for long term health. Lamigard TRT will help your horse’s feet remain healthy all year round and will compliment a careful feeding regime. Lamigard TRT contains powerful ingredients to help mop up excess free radicals which settle in the feet, supporting a healthy enzyme level within the hooves and providing nutrients to the internal sensitive structures, as well as promoting external hoof wall condition.

RRP: From £39.99

Visit: www.equine-america.co.uk

Rowen Barbary solution mash

Containing under 1% total sugar but with 150gm of oil in every 1kg solution, this mash is suitable for poor doers that suffer from laminitis but require weight gain and condition.

RRP: from £15.43

Visit: www.rowenbarbary.co.uk or call 01948 880698

Dodson & Horrell High Fibre Nuts

A high fibre, low cereal cube suitable for horses and ponies in light work; also ideal for good-doers and those prone to excess weight gain or laminitis. Low in sugar and fully balanced with a complete range of added vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants.

RRP: from £8.45

Visit: www.dodsonandhorrell.com

Equilibrium Therapy Magnetic Chaps

Equilibrium Therapy Magnetic Chaps can be worn in the stable to help horses and ponies prone to laminitis by increasing blood flow and promoting faster healing in horse’s legs. The clinical grade VITAflex magnets present positive and negative poles to the body to encourage constant repelling and attracting of the blood cells, making them highly effective at keeping cells in an active regenerating state. This improves circulation, which accelerates the influx of nutrients and the removal of toxins.

Visit: www.equilibriumproducts.com; email info@equilibriumproducts.com or call 01442 879115

Equifest LamiCORE

The unique mix of ingredients in LamiCORE provides exceptional support for horses and ponies prone to laminitis and other metabolic conditions. LamiCORE contains a mix of vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, amino acids and Omega 3s as well as our patented chelated calcium technology, which anecdotally has been shown to be of benefit to those with metabolic conditions.

RRP: five week starter pack of LamiCORE £65, 5 week follow-on £45.

Visit: www.equifeast.co.uk or call 01453 836 974

For the latest veterinary news on laminitis treatments, plus more products developed to help support horses prone to the condition, turn to p20 of Horse & Hound magazine (19 March, 2015)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Scientific Nutritional Products has added green lipped mussel into its supplement Horse Joint Right Supreme to give more protection for older horse’s joints in the cold winter months.

Also know as perna canaliculus, green lipped mussel is known for its soothing effect on joints.

“This beneficial ingredient works by encouraging synovial fluid production which acts to lubricate and cushions joints thus optimising joint function,” said a company spokesman.

“With the colder weather on the horizon Horse Joint Right Supreme supplement now with green lipped mussel will prove beneficial for older horses, horses with still joints or can be used as preventative measure.”

Stiff joints can result in reduced stride length, reluctance to work through and forward, refusing at jumps and sometimes a depressed attitude.

In winter time the drop in barometric pressure often results in troublesome joints causing more problems.

“Including a Horse Joint Supplement in your equine’s diet can help alleviate these problems and can also protect a younger horse or pony from these issues developing in the first place,” said a spokesman for Scientific Nutritional Products.

The supplement with the green lipped mussel is available at no extra cost to the original.

Prices start at £22.75 including free delivery. For more information visit the company’s new website at: www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk or tel 01377 245900 to speak to a member of the team.

Scientific Nutritional Products are based near Driffield in the East Riding of Yorkshire. Established in 1985, the company manufactures horse supplements and dog joint supplements.

Products made by Scientific Nutritional Products include Horse Joint Right Supreme, Robust Hoof, Premium Calmer with Pre and Pro Biotics, Magnesium Calmer Equine, Pure Distilled MSM, Horse Electrolytes with MSM, Compeition Horse Multi Vitamins, Horse and Pont Multi Vitamins, Nuti Gut Pre and Pro Biotic and Mud Manager for wet and muddy conditions.

A supplements company has had an advert pulled by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) for making medicinal claims for unlicensed products.

In a ruling published on 3 September, the ASA said that Equifeast’s advertisement for Cool, Calm & Collected in Showing World magazine must not appear again “in its current form”.

The advert made claims for the role of chelated calcium as a horse calmer.

Further claims were made about the negative effect of too much magnesium on horse behaviour.

The ASA said this was unsubstantiated by robust trials. It argued the sample sizes were too small and rejected research published in the Journal of Equine Science (June 2014) as it was only related to foals.

Equifeast disputes the level of proof required in advertising, arguing that although it costs millions to evaluate a new medicine, there are no requirements to licence a horse feed or supplement.

The ASA took advice from the Veterinary Medicines Directive (VMD) over the advert’s statement that: “Getting both chelated calcium and controlled magnesium right improves behaviour in up to 90% of difficult horses.”

The ASA concluded that consumers would “be likely to infer from this that the product could treat behavioural problems caused by a nutrient deficiency and therefore the ad was making medicinal claims for an unlicensed product.”

But Equifeast’s Malcolm Green maintained the ASA had “twisted our words to imply that consumers would interpret what we have written in a bizarre way”.

He said the case sets a precedent and warns that “most supplement advertisements in all leading equestrian magazines make medicinal claims that are effectively liable to a similar treatment from the ASA.”

This news story was first published in H&H magazine on 18 September 2014

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The perils of supplement contamination have been thrown into the spotlight recently thanks to Jock Paget and Clifton Promise. But what should riders be looking for? Are you ever really “safe’” to use them?

As Jock Paget said to H&H this week, he’ll “never be safe” in respect to possible contamination.

There is truth in what sounds like a dramatic statement — vets and manufacturers said you can “never be certain” when it comes to supplements and competition. Both Jock and Kevin McNab were cleared after an ongoing scandal in which their horses — Clifton Promise and Clifton Pinot — tested positive for banned drug reserpine at Burghley last year.

It was ruled a supplement, LesstressE, was contaminated at the production stage before use.

In the documents, the FEI Tribunal found that neither Kevin or Jock had shown “negligence” because they couldn’t have ”reasonably known or suspected” that LesstressE would be contaminated with reserpine.

Jock also explained that the New Zealand team vet had approved his use of LesstressE.

“You don’t know what is in them and the contents can vary,” said H&H vet advisor Karen Coumbe.

“It can be extremely difficult to know exactly what is included, so it can be nearly impossible to advise on either their efficacy or safety.

“This recent case makes me more cautious about checking any supplement and considering carefully whether it is reasonable for regular usage.”

No guarantee

Claire Williams from the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) said one of the main problems as a rider is that you can never be 100% sure.

“Contamination could happen to anyone,” she said.

“Due to the nature of raw materials, no manufacturer could — or should — guarantee it’s not contaminated by a prohibited substance, many of which occur naturally in the environment. Products are made up from hundreds of raw materials all around the world; contamination can occur at any stage.”

This case is not the only recent contamination issue — last month the Queen’s 2014 Ascot Gold Cup runner-up Estimate was among eight racehorses who tested positive for banned substance morphine — at least four having been fed suspected contaminated Dodson & Horrell Alfalfa Oil Plus.

Dodson & Horrell recalled the batch immediately and traced the source — presumed to be rogue poppy seeds — to the fibre supplier.

Lawyer Jeremy Dickerson, who represented eventer Jock Paget, called for more leniency in racing and equestrian anti-doping rules in cases where fault is accepted by feed suppliers (news, 31 July).

“It illustrates that however reputable your supplier, no-one is immune,” Mr Dickerson told H&H.

Production qualities vary

One of the most shocking things to come out of the Paget and McNab Tribunal papers was the fact the product LesstressE had been produced “with a wooden spoon and plastic bowl” on the “kitchen table” at Trinity Consultants.

“Of course I wouldn’t have used the product if I had known that was the situation,” Jock told H&H.

Ms Williams said when manufacturing supplements, companies must be registered with Trading Standards.

“You’d hope it was all being done professionally — complying with feed hygiene regulations, ingredients lists and use-by dates — but the regulations don’t stress where it’s made,” she added.

But in the FEI papers, Roger Hatch admitted that Trinity Consultants had not applied for a traditional herb certification and that “no good manufacturing policies had been in place”.

Who is accountable?

However, should riders investigate the manufacturer’s background before giving any product to their horses?

“It is the riders’responsibility to look at the label and see what claims are being made,”said Ms Williams.

“Also beware contamination in yards. How many people have a kettle in their tack room for a cup of coffee [which can produce a positive test result] or feed horses titbits?”

Dr Roger Crozet and Dr Brieuc de Moffarts of Twydil vets added that it is the riders’ responsibility to check the FEI clean sport list.

“A thorough discussion with the vet team is important regarding any treatment and the competition calendar,” they said.

“The responsible person is the person who made the mistake, consciously or not.

“Grooms are employees of the rider or the owner and only stick to instructions. They cannot be held accountable unless it can be proven that they committed something wrong on purpose.”

In 2009 Michael Whitaker was suspended for four months after his groom mistakenly fed the wrong supplement — for mares — to his stallion, Tackeray, causing a positive result. Both were later found to be at no fault.

The British Olympic Association said at the time: “The panel noted that there is no reasonable basis for concluding that Whitaker (or his groom) deliberately administered the prohibited substance.”

Tightening of rules?

Another question that has been raised is whether horses running at such a high level really need that many supplements? Under the Rules of racing, horses can only have feed and water — no supplements — on raceday.

“Great care should be exercised with the use of feed supplements,”said a British Horseracing Authority spokesman.“In general it is prudent to record all supplement use, as with feed, in case problems arise.”

An FEI spokesman told H&H: “Oral supplements are permitted under FEI Rules, provided such supplements do not contain any substances on the prohibited substances list.

“The concept of one detailed list mirrors the approach taken by the World Anti-Doping Agency with regard to human athletes, and the FEI, as part of its clean sport initiative, recommends regular consultation of this list by all those working with FEI horses.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

After 10 months Jock Paget (pictured above) and his former trainer Kevin McNab have both been cleared of any malpractice after their horses tested positive for banned substance reserpine at last year’s Burghley Horse Trials (5-8 September 2013).

The FEI Tribunal found that the long-term tranquiliser came from a contaminated calming supplement called LesstressE, produced by Trinity Consultants.

Twelve bottles of LesstressE were obtained from the stables of Jock Paget, Kevin McNab, Adam Trew and Jonelle Richards for testing and reserpine was detected in 10 of them.

The FEI countered by claiming the bottles had a “simple flip top lid” so could have been tampered with after leaving the manufacturers.

The FEI claimed Jock would have “strong motivation” to do this, given that reserpine is known to have a calming effect for dressage and he had admitted that Clifton Promise was “highly strung”.

Director of Trinity Consultants Roger Hatch admitted mixing LesstressE “to order” on his kitchen table using a “wooden spoon and plastic bowl” and that there was no quality control. Due to the nature of the manufacturing process it was impossible to prove exactly how and when the contamination occurred.

The Tribunal also found that neither rider had shown “negligence” because they couldn’t have “reasonably known or suspected” that LesstressE would be contaminated with reserpine.

Moving on

Although still stripped of his Burghley title, Jock is now free to ride again, as is Kevin, both escaping a potential two-year ban.

Jock can now concentrate on preparations for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. He was selected for the New Zealand squad earlier this summer.

“It is the ultimate relief. It has been the only thing on my mind,” Jock told H&H.

“I was fortunate that we were able to find the source of the contamination, trace it and prove — most importantly — that I wasn’t responsible nor could I have known.”

Kevin (pictured left riding Clifton Pinot) is also keen to “finally move on”.

“I’m not a doper, I always knew it had to be contamination,” he said.

Both horses are owned by Frances Stead of Clifton Eventers, who has maintained both riders’ innocence throughout.

“This outcome confirms what we have consistently said since this news broke last year — that both Jock and Kevin are two exceptional individuals who are not only very talented and hard-working, but also operate at all times in an ethical and honest way,” said Frances in a statement.

“It is also great news for the sport of eventing, as it confirms it remains clean of any drug abuse of horses.”

Supplement concern

The case has once again thrown into the spotlight the possible problems with contamination in supplements.

It was revealed that Clifton Promise was on seven supplements and that Clifton Pinot had been given three different calmers — including LesstressE — on the morning of the dressage at Burghley (6 September).

The FEI argued that under the context of the World Anti-Doping Code, athletes had been warned supplements may be contaminated with prohibited substances. As a result, the riders had “assumed the risk” by still using them.

“This case highlights the much discussed concerns about the use of herbal supplements,” said H&H vet consultant Karen Coumbe. “It can be extremely difficult to know for certain what precisely the contents are and how they are manufactured.”

Event Riders Association president Bruce Haskell added: “This is a wake-up call that riders need to be more responsible.”

LesstressE was still available on the Trinity Consultants website for £17 last week with claims to contain no prohibited substance for either the FEI or national equine ruling bodies, but it has since been de-listed.

H&H asked Mr Hatch why LesstressE had still been available and if he could confirm his products were no longer at risk of contamination. Mr Hatch refused to comment on the contamination risk.

Standing up to scrutiny

The high-profile nature of this case has put the FEI Tribunal system under widespread public scrutiny.

The organisation has been criticised during the past 10 months for the amount of time it took to process the case.

In March, Olympic event rider Ian Stark told H&H the FEI disciplinary system “really needs tightening-up”.

“The FEI lets things linger on and on. Eventing needs to work on this, when cases hang on, it can have adverse effects on people’s careers,” he said (news, 6 March).

Jock’s elimination from Burghley after a “partial decision” by the FEI did not happen until 23 April — the day before Kentucky three-day event where Andrew Nicholson was attempting to win the second leg of the Rolex Grand Slam, having finished second to Jock at Burghley.

The length of the case has also resulted in Jock and Kevin missing several major events.

Concerns have now been raised that the FEI’s approach to the case was defensive rather than investigative.

“I would like in future to see the FEI take a strong investigatory role following initial positives and to do so at an early stage to ensure that in cases where there is no fault, such as Kevin’s, these cases can be identified and resolved much more quickly,” said Kevin’s lawyer Rory Mac Neice.

“The process needs to be more streamlined,” added Jock’s lawyer Jeremy Dickerson. “It’s the right result, but it’s taken us a jolly long time to get there.”

“More money and time needs to be spent across the board,” added Bruce Haskell. “We all want a fair sport and that requires a combination of the athlete and the administration.

“If we want eventing to stay as an Olympic sport we need it to be credible. Cycling now has no credibility, weightlifting now has no crediblilty and I would hate to see eventing go the same way. It requires both sides to play within the rules and get better at what they do.”

First published in Horse & Hound magazine on 14 August 2014

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

T.E.N. has launched a new supplement to support calm behaviour in mares by helping to support a healthy hormonal balance.

T.E.N. Challenged Mare contains a balance of active ingredients and vitamins that help with general well-being and reducing anxiety. Magnesium, which is known for its calming properties, has also been added.

“We listen carefully to what horse owners want and then design the best possible products to meet their horses’ individual needs,” said T.E.N. nutritionist Clare Barfoot.

T.E.N. guarantees 100% satisfaction or your money back on their entire range of online equine supplements.

For more information visit www.tensupplements.co.uk

Targeted Equine Nutrition (T.E.N) have added 3 new products to its range of supplements — Daily Electrolytes, Daily Balancer and Laminitis Support.

 These new products will help your horse maintain vitamins, hydration and also benefit horses and ponies that are prone to developing laminitis.

“It’s through listening to your feedback we have identified the need for these 3 new targeted supplements to help support your horse or pony in more situations where nutritional support may be of benefit” said Clare Barfoot from T.E.N.

 The Daily electrolytes are available in 2.5kg tubs and have an RRP £19.99

The Daily balancer is available in 1.5Kg tubs and have an RRP £8.99

The Daily laminitis support is available in 1.2Kg tubs and have an RRP £14.99

To celebrate the launch all 3 new products are on a special half-price offer until the 1 June 2014.

For more information visit www.tensupplements.co.uk 

A new supplement has been launched for the owners of moody horses.

No Moody No from Pegasus Health is a new, unique, supplement that targets hormonal issues of both mares and geldings.

“Equine mood swings are incredibly common and can cause frustration in schooling, hacking and competing, not to mention making your horse more difficult to handle on the ground,” said a spokesman for the company.

“Mares often display temperamental behaviour during their reproductive cycle. However, often overlooked is that geldings can display signs of grumpiness, aggression and unwanted behaviour due to hormonal imbalances too, making management tricky and unpleasant.”

No Moody No is a fast-acting herbal tincture that can be easily added to feed. It aims to provide mares with support during their ovarian cycle, as well as reducing the instances of stallion-like behaviour in geldings.

The active ingredient is Chastetree Berries. No Moody No works by targeting the pituitary gland and hypothalamus and helping to rebalance the equine body’s oestrogen and progesterone levels.

Prices start at £29.95 for 1 litre. For more information visit: www.nomoodyno.com

Replay our live web chat for tips on choosing the right supplement for your horse's needs

Horse & Hound hosted a live web chat, in association with Nupafeed, discussing how training, management and equine supplements can work together to help your horse, on Thursday 4 July from 12noon until 2pm.

Jemma Noble BSc(Hons) of Nupafeed, who is also a British Show Horse Association panel ride judge, and Jo Bower MSc Eq.S, an independent equine nutritionist from HorseSource, were on hand to answer readers’ questions.

For more information about Nupafeed visit www.nupafeed.co.uk

If you would like a free analysis of your horse’s feeding regime, email horsesource@btconnect.com

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