The relationship between a horse’s digestive system and behaviour is more complex than previously understood. While our focus has often been on the hindgut microbiome’s influence through the microbiome-gut-brain axis (MGBA), recent research highlights the equally important role of gastric health in equine behaviour and wellbeing.
Gastric ulcers that affect up to 90% of performance horses create a direct pathway for pain and stress signals to reach the brain, significantly altering behaviour. When combined with hindgut imbalances, these issues can create a perfect storm of behavioural challenges that frustrate both horse and rider.
Understanding the Full Digestive Picture
The equine digestive system functions as an interconnected whole, with each section influencing the others. Gastric ulcers can trigger cascading effects that impact hindgut function, while hindgut imbalances can increase stress responses that exacerbate gastric ulceration.
Key behavioural indicators that both gastric and hindgut issues may be present include:
- Inconsistent behaviour (good days and bad days)
- Heightened reactivity to environmental stimuli
- Resistance to work or training
- Changes in eating patterns or preferences
- Visible discomfort when ridden
- Decreased performance despite adequate training
“We now understand that optimal behaviour requires addressing the entire digestive tract as a unified system,” notes Lisa Elliott, MSc. “Focusing solely on either gastric or hindgut health provides only partial solutions to behavioural challenges.”
Comprehensive Management Strategies
Creating a management programme that supports both gastric and hindgut health requires attention to several key factors:
1. Feeding Practices
– Provide constant access to forage to buffer stomach acid and support hindgut microbes
– Feed small, frequent meals when concentrates are necessary
– Ensure horses eat before exercise or feed Coligone to reduce acid splash in the stomach
– Maintain consistent feeding schedules to reduce stress
2. Diet Composition
– Prioritise high-quality fibre sources like Coligone Fibre Cubes or LamiGONE
– Minimise starch intake which can increase gastric acid and disrupt hindgut microbes
– Include omega-3 fatty acids which have anti-inflammatory properties, included in both Coligone Fibre Cubes and LamiGONE feeds
– Ensure adequate water intake to support digestive function
3. Supplementation
Coligone’s triple-action formula addresses multiple aspects of digestive health.
– Yea-sacc probiotics support beneficial microbes throughout the digestive tract
– ScFOS prebiotics provide food for beneficial bacteria while discouraging harmful species
– MOS binds to pathogenic microbes, helping to maintain microbial balance
– Seaweed buffers help neutralise excess stomach acid, protecting gastric tissues
4. Stress Management
– Provide regular turnout and social interaction
– Maintain consistent routines
– Consider workload and competition schedules
– Address environmental stressors that may exacerbate digestive issues
By implementing these comprehensive strategies, horse owners can support both gastric and hindgut health, creating the foundation for balanced behaviour, optimal performance, and improved quality of life for their equine partners.
Coligone products are formulated based on over 20 years of research into equine digestive health, providing scientifically-backed solutions that address the complete digestive system. Our products work within 20 minutes to begin supporting digestive comfort, helping horses feel and perform at their best.
For personalised advice on managing your horse’s complete digestive health, contact our team at 0333 0503785/07986 183616 or email sales@hbradshaws.co.uk
