FEED ADVICE – HEALTH
Understanding Tying Up in horses
Tying Up, also known as exertional rhabdomyolysis is the most common muscle disorder seen in horses resulting in muscle damage and poor performance. Tying up is primarily seen in sport horses where episodes can range from mild muscle cramps to severe muscle breakdown and damage. Although distressing, tying up can be managed effectively through diet and routine.
Key Highlights
Tying up is also known as exertionalrhabdomyolysis, Monday Morning Disease, and azoturia.
It is characterised by muscle damage and the resulting in pain, spasms and stiffness.
Genetic factors, dietary imbalances, and overtaining are some of the causes behind tying up in horses.
Immediate actions during an episode of tying up include pain relief, muscle relaxtion and blood tests.
Understanding Tying Up
Tying Up is essentially extreme muscle cramping. It is characterized by muscle damage and the breakdown of muscle cells, leading to the release of muscle enzymes into the bloodstream. This condition is often triggered by intense exercise or exertion beyond the horse’s training level. The excessive strain on the muscles can result in muscle pain, stiffness, and lameness.
Tying Up arises from a combination of genetic predispositions, environmental triggers, and management factors, including:
Recognising clinical signs of Tying Up
Recognising the signs of Tying Up is essential for prompt intervention and management, as early recognition may improve outcomes and minimize long-term complications:
Diagnosis of Tying Up
Diagnosis of tying up in horses involves several diagnostic approaches. Veterinary examination focuses on observing clinical signs such as muscle stiffness, pain, gait abnormalities, sweating, and any history of previous tying up episodes after exercise. A detailed history is essential, covering the horse’s exercise routine, diet, management practices, and past episodes of tying up.
Blood tests are crucial, measuring muscle enzymes like creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to detect muscle damage, typical in tying up cases. Interpreting enzyme levels can be challenging, as even asymptomatic horses may show elevated levels post-exercise. Horses with chronic tying up may exhibit persistently high CK and AST levels at rest.
Urinalysis reviews the myoglobin content in the urine, which if found, indicates severe muscle damage. A muscle biopsy may be necessary in severe or recurrent cases, examining muscle tissue for damage or abnormalities under a microscope. Measuring electrolyte excretion (sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, chloride) can identify horses with abnormal electrolyte absorption. It’s crucial to collect samples when the horse is stable and consuming its normal diet.
To ensure an accurate diagnosis, other potential causes of muscle pain and stiffness, such as lameness or neurological issues, are ruled out through comprehensive clinical examination and diagnostic tests.
Treating a Horse with Tying Up
Treatment for a horse that has experienced tying up focuses on relieving muscle pain and inflammation and promoting muscle recovery. If your horse ties up the following steps should be followed:
Move the horse to a stable – do not make the horse travel far as tying up in an incredibly painful condition and excessive movement can exacerbate the condition
If the horse is warm apply cold water or cold packs to affected muscle groups to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. If it is colder weather, place a rug on the horse to avoid the need to shiver. Avoid excessive rubbing or massaging, which can further irritate muscles.
Once the vet arrives, they might:
- Offer Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as phenylbutazone (bute) or flunixin meglumine (Banamine), may be administered to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Provide Fluid Therapy: Intravenous fluids may be necessary to maintain hydration and support kidney function, especially if myoglobinuria (dark urine) indicates significant muscle damage.
- Offer Sedation: drugs such as Acepromazine and xylazine can be offered to alleviate acute pain and discomfort. These medications help relax tense muscles, reducing spasms and stiffness that contribute to the horse’s pain
Management and Prevention Strategies
Effective management and prevention strategies can help minimise the occurrence of tying up in horses and promote overall muscle health.
Long-term dietary adjustments, developing a sustainable exercise routine, avoiding overtraining, and implementing stress management techniques are crucial for preventing episodes of tying up.
Dietary Adjustments:
Balanced Diet: Providing a balanced diet rich in high-quality forage, appropriate levels of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals supports overall health, muscle function, and athletic performance in horses prone to ER.
Supplemental Vitamin E and Selenium: Supplementation with vitamin E and selenium, either through balanced feeds, mineral supplements, or oral supplements, helps support antioxidant defences, protect against oxidative stress, and reduce the risk of muscle damage associated with ER.
Did you know our ReFuel contains vitamin E and Selenium? Ideal for helping support your horse’s muscles.
Amino Acid Supplementation: Essential amino acids, such as lysine, methionine, and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), play critical roles in muscle protein synthesis, repair, and recovery, making them valuable additions to the diets of horses prone to ER.
Did you know all our complete feeds contain lysine and methionine?
Electrolyte Balance: Maintaining electrolyte balance through appropriate supplementation, particularly during periods of increased sweating or intense exercise, helps support muscle function, hydration, and acid-base balance, reducing the risk of muscle cramping and fatigue associated with ER.
Did you know that regular electrolyte supplements can be abrasive to the digestive system and companies must add a lot of sugar to make them palatable? That is why our Pure Electrolytes are fat coated, to make sure they are more bioavailable to the horse and kinder on the digestive system.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, derived from sources such as fish oil or linseed oil, may help modulate inflammatory responses, support cardiovascular health, and enhance muscle recovery in horses prone to ER.
Did you know all our feeds contain micronized linseed? We even sell Pure Linseed for horses that require a little bit extra!
Developing a Sustainable Routine
Developing a sustainable exercise routine is crucial in managing and preventing tying up in horses. Strenuous exercise without proper conditioning and rest periods can increase the risk of muscle damage and tying up.
Start with low-intensity activities such as walking and light trotting, gradually increasing the duration and intensity of workouts as the horse’s fitness improves. Avoid sudden, intense exercise sessions, as these can trigger episodes of tying up. Additionally, ensure the horse has adequate warm-up and cool-down periods to promote muscle flexibility and circulation. Incorporate rest days and monitor the horse’s response to exercise closely, adjusting the program as needed. Providing a balanced diet with sufficient electrolytes and ensuring proper hydration can also help manage the condition.
Horses prone to tying up benefit from a regular, consistent exercise routine, but this does not necessarily mean they should work daily from a regular, consistent exercise routine, but this does not necessarily mean they should work every day. Daily exercise can help maintain muscle function and prevent episodes of tying up by promoting steady muscle metabolism and preventing the buildup of lactic acid. However, the intensity and duration of exercise should be carefully managed. Incorporate rest days or very light activity days to allow the horse’s muscles to recover. This is especially important if the horse shows any signs of stiffness or discomfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding why horses tie up is crucial for their well-being. From recognising the signs to implementing management and prevention strategies. Genetic factors, dietary imbalances, and overtraining play significant roles in this condition. By taking immediate actions, making dietary adjustments, and managing stress, you can help minimise the risk.
Featured products to help with Tying Up
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One bag. No gaps. No guesswork.
Feeding shouldn’t feel like a balancing act. That’s why our feeds are built differently - truly complete, with everything your horse needs in every single mouthful:
🌱 Multiple fibre sources (grass pellets + chaff) for gut health and chew time
⚡ Slow-release energy from linseed, rapeseed oil & unmolassed sugar beet
🧬 A fully balanced vitamin & mineral package
💪 Essential amino acids for muscle support
🦶 Biotin for strong hooves
🧂 Salt for hydration and electrolyte balance
🦠 Pre & probiotics for optimal digestion
No extras. No add-ons. Just Pure Feed 🩵
One bag. No gaps. No guesswork.
Feeding shouldn’t feel like a balancing act. That’s why our feeds are built differently - truly complete, with everything your horse needs in every single mouthful:
🌱 Multiple fibre sources (grass pellets + chaff) for gut health and chew time
⚡ Slow-release energy from linseed, rapeseed oil & unmolassed sugar beet
🧬 A fully balanced vitamin & mineral package
💪 Essential amino acids for muscle support
🦶 Biotin for strong hooves
🧂 Salt for hydration and electrolyte balance
🦠 Pre & probiotics for optimal digestion
No extras. No add-ons. Just Pure Feed 🩵
If you’ve ever owned a good-doer, you’ll know… they don’t miss a meal. Not ever.
Spring grass comes through, the sun appears, and suddenly, what should be a simple turnout becomes a stressful balancing act.
For some, that starts with a muzzle. Not to restrict completely, but to slow things down – turning every bite into a more considered mouthful.
For others, it’s strip grazing. Walking the fence line forward inch by inch, controlling access to fresh grass and keeping intake steady rather than excessive.
Then there’s hay, soaked to reduce sugar levels, making it a safer, more suitable forage option when you need to take the edge off.
Some horses thrive in dry paddocks, where grass intake is minimal but movement and turnout are still part of their routine. Others benefit from a little more time stabled, where you can fully manage what goes in and when.
All of these approaches share the same underlying principle: restriction. You’re limiting intake to manage weight, sugar exposure, and overall health. But it’s easy to forget what else gets restricted at the same time. When you reduce grass, soak hay, or limit access to forage, you’re not just cutting calories and sugars, you’re also reducing the intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that your horse would naturally pick up throughout the day.
Over time, that gap can start to show. Hoof quality, coat condition, muscle maintenance, even energy levels and recovery, they’re all influenced by those nutrients that are no longer consistently coming in. This is where a low calorie balancer, like Pure Balance comes in. It`s job is to fill in these nutrition gaps and help provide your horse with everything they need, in a low calorie format 🩵
If you’ve ever owned a good-doer, you’ll know… they don’t miss a meal. Not ever.
Spring grass comes through, the sun appears, and suddenly, what should be a simple turnout becomes a stressful balancing act.
For some, that starts with a muzzle. Not to restrict completely, but to slow things down – turning every bite into a more considered mouthful.
For others, it’s strip grazing. Walking the fence line forward inch by inch, controlling access to fresh grass and keeping intake steady rather than excessive.
Then there’s hay, soaked to reduce sugar levels, making it a safer, more suitable forage option when you need to take the edge off.
Some horses thrive in dry paddocks, where grass intake is minimal but movement and turnout are still part of their routine. Others benefit from a little more time stabled, where you can fully manage what goes in and when.
All of these approaches share the same underlying principle: restriction. You’re limiting intake to manage weight, sugar exposure, and overall health. But it’s easy to forget what else gets restricted at the same time. When you reduce grass, soak hay, or limit access to forage, you’re not just cutting calories and sugars, you’re also reducing the intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that your horse would naturally pick up throughout the day.
Over time, that gap can start to show. Hoof quality, coat condition, muscle maintenance, even energy levels and recovery, they’re all influenced by those nutrients that are no longer consistently coming in. This is where a low calorie balancer, like Pure Balance comes in. It`s job is to fill in these nutrition gaps and help provide your horse with everything they need, in a low calorie format 🩵
✨ Pure Fibre Balance - high-fibre, low-calorie feed for good doers! ✨
Combines our premium balancer pellets (vitamins, minerals, pre/probiotics, biotin, amino acids, salt) with low-calorie chaff for extra fibre to provide steady, slow-release energy (no fizz) = ideal for good doers & laminitis-prone horses
🚫 Cereal & molasses free, no preservatives – all the nutrition, none of the empty calories 🩵
✨ Pure Fibre Balance - high-fibre, low-calorie feed for good doers! ✨
Combines our premium balancer pellets (vitamins, minerals, pre/probiotics, biotin, amino acids, salt) with low-calorie chaff for extra fibre to provide steady, slow-release energy (no fizz) = ideal for good doers & laminitis-prone horses
🚫 Cereal & molasses free, no preservatives – all the nutrition, none of the empty calories 🩵
A good session doesn’t end when you untack.
Work takes more out of your horse than you can always see: fluid loss through sweat, muscles under strain, and a digestive system that’s more sensitive post-exercise.
That’s where Refuel comes in.
Supporting faster muscle recovery, replenishing electrolytes for effective hydration, and formulated to be gut safe, it helps your horse recover properly 🩵
A good session doesn’t end when you untack.
Work takes more out of your horse than you can always see: fluid loss through sweat, muscles under strain, and a digestive system that’s more sensitive post-exercise.
That’s where Refuel comes in.
Supporting faster muscle recovery, replenishing electrolytes for effective hydration, and formulated to be gut safe, it helps your horse recover properly 🩵
Both Fibre Balance and Easy are part of our low calorie range but which suits your horse?
Pure Fibre Balance is built for good-doers who don’t need extra energy - low calorie, high fibre, fully balanced, and ideal for those in light work or at maintenance. It is like feeding a full cup of balancer with a handful of chaff. Everything your horse needs in one measured portion: high fibre, low sugar and starch, perfectly balanced.
Pure Easy uses the same ingredients, but served at a higher rate – more fibre, more slow-release energy, without adding extra sugar or starch. It’s the choice for horses that need extra bulk and sustained energy, while staying completely balanced and gut-friendly.
Not sure which would be best for your horse? Comment `DIET PLAN` to recieve a link to our diet plan 🩵
Both Fibre Balance and Easy are part of our low calorie range but which suits your horse?
Pure Fibre Balance is built for good-doers who don’t need extra energy - low calorie, high fibre, fully balanced, and ideal for those in light work or at maintenance. It is like feeding a full cup of balancer with a handful of chaff. Everything your horse needs in one measured portion: high fibre, low sugar and starch, perfectly balanced.
Pure Easy uses the same ingredients, but served at a higher rate – more fibre, more slow-release energy, without adding extra sugar or starch. It’s the choice for horses that need extra bulk and sustained energy, while staying completely balanced and gut-friendly.
Not sure which would be best for your horse? Comment `DIET PLAN` to recieve a link to our diet plan 🩵
Different workloads, different grazing, different quirks that make “one size fits all” feeding… not quite fit at all. That’s usually where the questions start.
"Am I feeding too much? Not enough? The right balance?"
Our diet plan service takes the guesswork out of it. A quick, simple form, reviewed by our nutritionists, and within a day, you’ve got a plan built specifically for your horse – their needs, their lifestyle, their routine.
👉 Comment `DIET PLAN` to find out more 🩵
Different workloads, different grazing, different quirks that make “one size fits all” feeding… not quite fit at all. That’s usually where the questions start.
"Am I feeding too much? Not enough? The right balance?"
Our diet plan service takes the guesswork out of it. A quick, simple form, reviewed by our nutritionists, and within a day, you’ve got a plan built specifically for your horse – their needs, their lifestyle, their routine.
👉 Comment `DIET PLAN` to find out more 🩵
Keep your good doers in top condition without overloading them with calories! 🌿🐴
Pure Easy is a low-calorie, low sugar and starch feed designed specifically for horses that gain weight easily. Despite the lower calories, it provides steady, slow-release energy from high-quality fibre and superfibre sources, perfect for horses in light to medium work.
It also contains a built-in balancer packed with essential vitamins, minerals, pre- & probiotics to support the gut microbiome, biotin for strong hooves, key amino acids for muscle maintenance, and added salt to help hydration.
This carefully formulated feed lets you give your horse the energy they need to perform, without risking excess weight gain , all in one simple, easy feed! 🩵
Keep your good doers in top condition without overloading them with calories! 🌿🐴
Pure Easy is a low-calorie, low sugar and starch feed designed specifically for horses that gain weight easily. Despite the lower calories, it provides steady, slow-release energy from high-quality fibre and superfibre sources, perfect for horses in light to medium work.
It also contains a built-in balancer packed with essential vitamins, minerals, pre- & probiotics to support the gut microbiome, biotin for strong hooves, key amino acids for muscle maintenance, and added salt to help hydration.
This carefully formulated feed lets you give your horse the energy they need to perform, without risking excess weight gain , all in one simple, easy feed! 🩵
Did you know Vitamin E, or Tocopheryl, is crucial for your horse’s overall health? All Pure Complete feeds include it in our balancer, ensuring your horse gets the benefits every day:
👉 Protects cells from oxidative stress – helping to neutralise free radicals.
👉 Supports muscle function and recovery – essential for exercise and stamina.
👉 Maintains a normal immune system – keeping your horse strong and resilient.
Including Vitamin E in every feed means your horse receives targeted antioxidant support alongside all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in our balancer. Perfect for keeping horses happy and performing at their best! 🌿
Did you know Vitamin E, or Tocopheryl, is crucial for your horse’s overall health? All Pure Complete feeds include it in our balancer, ensuring your horse gets the benefits every day:
👉 Protects cells from oxidative stress – helping to neutralise free radicals.
👉 Supports muscle function and recovery – essential for exercise and stamina.
👉 Maintains a normal immune system – keeping your horse strong and resilient.
Including Vitamin E in every feed means your horse receives targeted antioxidant support alongside all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in our balancer. Perfect for keeping horses happy and performing at their best! 🌿
Refuel comes with a splash zone warning!
A recovery mash horses just can`t get enough of! Packed with electrolytes, antioxidants and amino acids, Refuel works hard to keep your horse in tip top shape!
We would love to see a photo of your horse after a bowl of Refuel, drop them in the comments below 👇
Refuel comes with a splash zone warning!
A recovery mash horses just can`t get enough of! Packed with electrolytes, antioxidants and amino acids, Refuel works hard to keep your horse in tip top shape!
We would love to see a photo of your horse after a bowl of Refuel, drop them in the comments below 👇
Body condition scoring… we talk about it a lot, but what does it actually look like in practice? 👀
It’s not about one quick glance or a number on a chart, it’s about building a picture, piece by piece, of how your horse is carrying condition.
1. Start at the topline.
Run your hand along the back: are the vertebrae sharp and visible, or is there a smooth, even covering? Ideally, you’re looking for a soft, rounded feel without a crease forming down the spine, which can indicate excess fat.
2.Then move to the neck and shoulders.
This is where fat can start to deposit quite early. A cresty neck or filling in front of the shoulder can be a sign your horse is carrying more condition than they need, particularly in native types or good doers. It’s also an important area to monitor for metabolic health.
3. Next, the ribs.
You shouldn’t necessarily see them, but you should be able to feel them easily. If they’re hard to find, it’s often a sign condition is creeping up. If they’re too prominent, it may indicate your horse needs more support nutritionally.
4. Then the hindquarters.
Look at the shape; are they rounded and filled, or more angular? Fat tends to sit around the tail head and quarters, so this area gives a good indication of overall energy balance.
And finally and most importantly, monitor over time.
Body condition scoring isn’t a one-off check. Horses change with the seasons, workload, and diet. What matters is spotting those small changes early, before they become bigger issues. Because when you understand where and how your horse carries condition, you’re in a much better position to feed for them, not just follow a generic plan.
Not sure what you’re feeling for? We’re always happy to help 👇
Body condition scoring… we talk about it a lot, but what does it actually look like in practice? 👀
It’s not about one quick glance or a number on a chart, it’s about building a picture, piece by piece, of how your horse is carrying condition.
1. Start at the topline.
Run your hand along the back: are the vertebrae sharp and visible, or is there a smooth, even covering? Ideally, you’re looking for a soft, rounded feel without a crease forming down the spine, which can indicate excess fat.
2.Then move to the neck and shoulders.
This is where fat can start to deposit quite early. A cresty neck or filling in front of the shoulder can be a sign your horse is carrying more condition than they need, particularly in native types or good doers. It’s also an important area to monitor for metabolic health.
3. Next, the ribs.
You shouldn’t necessarily see them, but you should be able to feel them easily. If they’re hard to find, it’s often a sign condition is creeping up. If they’re too prominent, it may indicate your horse needs more support nutritionally.
4. Then the hindquarters.
Look at the shape; are they rounded and filled, or more angular? Fat tends to sit around the tail head and quarters, so this area gives a good indication of overall energy balance.
And finally and most importantly, monitor over time.
Body condition scoring isn’t a one-off check. Horses change with the seasons, workload, and diet. What matters is spotting those small changes early, before they become bigger issues. Because when you understand where and how your horse carries condition, you’re in a much better position to feed for them, not just follow a generic plan.
Not sure what you’re feeling for? We’re always happy to help 👇
In the UK, it’s estimated that 1 in 10 horses will experience a laminitis episode every year; that’s around 96,000 cases annually.
And right now, in April, we’re entering one of the highest-risk periods of the year.
As grass growth accelerates with longer days and fluctuating temperatures, levels of non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs), particularly sugars like fructans, can rise significantly. Cool nights followed by bright, sunny days are the perfect conditions for these sugar levels to spike, increasing the risk for horses, especially those with underlying insulin dysregulation.
Laminitis is now widely recognised as a complex, endocrine-driven disease, where elevated insulin levels can directly compromise the lamellar structures within the hoof. This weakens the bond between the hoof wall and pedal bone, and once damage begins, it can progress quickly, leading to chronic pain, mechanical failure, and in severe cases, irreversible collapse.
It’s for this reason that laminitis remains one of the leading causes of death in horses in the UK, with many cases ending in euthanasia on welfare grounds.
From a nutritional perspective, prevention at this time of year is critical. It’s not just about restricting grazing, but about taking a proactive, whole-diet approach:
• Managing total NSC intake across forage and feed
• Supporting hindgut function and fibre digestion
• Avoiding sudden dietary changes
• Maintaining a normal body condition and metabolic balance
At Pure Feed, we’re proud that our feeds are formulated to be suitable for horses with laminitis; carefully designed to be low in sugar and starch, high in fibre, and supportive of normal metabolic function, helping you manage risk without compromising on nutrition.
If you’re unsure whether your horse’s diet is appropriate for this time of year, our team is always here to help; comment below, DM us or give our team a call on 01458 333333 🩵
In the UK, it’s estimated that 1 in 10 horses will experience a laminitis episode every year; that’s around 96,000 cases annually.
And right now, in April, we’re entering one of the highest-risk periods of the year.
As grass growth accelerates with longer days and fluctuating temperatures, levels of non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs), particularly sugars like fructans, can rise significantly. Cool nights followed by bright, sunny days are the perfect conditions for these sugar levels to spike, increasing the risk for horses, especially those with underlying insulin dysregulation.
Laminitis is now widely recognised as a complex, endocrine-driven disease, where elevated insulin levels can directly compromise the lamellar structures within the hoof. This weakens the bond between the hoof wall and pedal bone, and once damage begins, it can progress quickly, leading to chronic pain, mechanical failure, and in severe cases, irreversible collapse.
It’s for this reason that laminitis remains one of the leading causes of death in horses in the UK, with many cases ending in euthanasia on welfare grounds.
From a nutritional perspective, prevention at this time of year is critical. It’s not just about restricting grazing, but about taking a proactive, whole-diet approach:
• Managing total NSC intake across forage and feed
• Supporting hindgut function and fibre digestion
• Avoiding sudden dietary changes
• Maintaining a normal body condition and metabolic balance
At Pure Feed, we’re proud that our feeds are formulated to be suitable for horses with laminitis; carefully designed to be low in sugar and starch, high in fibre, and supportive of normal metabolic function, helping you manage risk without compromising on nutrition.
If you’re unsure whether your horse’s diet is appropriate for this time of year, our team is always here to help; comment below, DM us or give our team a call on 01458 333333 🩵
Did you know we use linseed in all of our feeds? Linseed is a powerhouse ingredient that brings multiple benefits to every feed. Here’s why we use it in all Pure Feed products:
1️⃣ Natural binder: Linseed contains mucilage, a sticky soluble fibre that binds feed pellets together naturally. This eliminates the need for molasses, so we can produce stable, consistent pellets without added sugar. For horses, this means better metabolic health and reduced risk of sugar-related issues.
2️⃣ Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Linseed provides essential fatty acids that support skin, coat, joint, and heart health, while also helping to maintain a normal inflammatory balance.
3️⃣ Gut-friendly fibre: The soluble fibre in linseed acts as a prebiotic, supporting beneficial gut microbes and improving nutrient absorption.
By using linseed instead of molasses, we combine function, nutrition, and safety, creating a feed that’s not only easier to handle and more palatable but also better for your horse’s long-term wellbeing!
Did you know we use linseed in all of our feeds? Linseed is a powerhouse ingredient that brings multiple benefits to every feed. Here’s why we use it in all Pure Feed products:
1️⃣ Natural binder: Linseed contains mucilage, a sticky soluble fibre that binds feed pellets together naturally. This eliminates the need for molasses, so we can produce stable, consistent pellets without added sugar. For horses, this means better metabolic health and reduced risk of sugar-related issues.
2️⃣ Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Linseed provides essential fatty acids that support skin, coat, joint, and heart health, while also helping to maintain a normal inflammatory balance.
3️⃣ Gut-friendly fibre: The soluble fibre in linseed acts as a prebiotic, supporting beneficial gut microbes and improving nutrient absorption.
By using linseed instead of molasses, we combine function, nutrition, and safety, creating a feed that’s not only easier to handle and more palatable but also better for your horse’s long-term wellbeing!
Feeding shouldn’t feel like a shopping list that never ends.
With many traditional feeding setups, you’re layering product after product: a base mix, a balancer, added oil, digestive support, biotin, muscle support… the list goes on. Not only is this way of feeding complicated, but it’s also easy to overdo or miss key nutrients.
We do things differently.
Pure Feed is designed to deliver everything your horse needs in one bag, combining high-quality fibre, essential vitamins and minerals, oils, and functional ingredients to support digestion, condition, and overall health.
That’s 6+ nutritional products, working together in a balanced way. No guesswork, no over-supplementing, no complicated routines.
Just a simpler, more effective way to feed.
Feeding shouldn’t feel like a shopping list that never ends.
With many traditional feeding setups, you’re layering product after product: a base mix, a balancer, added oil, digestive support, biotin, muscle support… the list goes on. Not only is this way of feeding complicated, but it’s also easy to overdo or miss key nutrients.
We do things differently.
Pure Feed is designed to deliver everything your horse needs in one bag, combining high-quality fibre, essential vitamins and minerals, oils, and functional ingredients to support digestion, condition, and overall health.
That’s 6+ nutritional products, working together in a balanced way. No guesswork, no over-supplementing, no complicated routines.
Just a simpler, more effective way to feed.
Ever wondered why a horse can seem fine on one day of spring grazing, but at risk the next? The answer lies in the grass itself.
In the early morning, grass sugar levels are at their lowest; the plant has used stored energy overnight. By the afternoon, sunlight drives photosynthesis, and sugar levels can spike dramatically. Young, lush spring grass is even trickier: rapid growth plus changing sunlight and rainfall means sugar levels can swing from low to dangerously high in a matter of hours.
For laminitis-prone horses, these swings matter. Sudden spikes in blood glucose trigger insulin surges, which can stress the sensitive tissues in the hoof and spark laminitis episodes. It’s not just about what your horse eats, but when and under what conditions the grass grows.
What you can do: Monitor your field, watch the weather, and consider timing and duration of grazing. Understanding these natural sugar fluctuations is one of the most effective ways to protect hoof health!
Ever wondered why a horse can seem fine on one day of spring grazing, but at risk the next? The answer lies in the grass itself.
In the early morning, grass sugar levels are at their lowest; the plant has used stored energy overnight. By the afternoon, sunlight drives photosynthesis, and sugar levels can spike dramatically. Young, lush spring grass is even trickier: rapid growth plus changing sunlight and rainfall means sugar levels can swing from low to dangerously high in a matter of hours.
For laminitis-prone horses, these swings matter. Sudden spikes in blood glucose trigger insulin surges, which can stress the sensitive tissues in the hoof and spark laminitis episodes. It’s not just about what your horse eats, but when and under what conditions the grass grows.
What you can do: Monitor your field, watch the weather, and consider timing and duration of grazing. Understanding these natural sugar fluctuations is one of the most effective ways to protect hoof health!
We’ve seen a few posts lately saying straw shouldn’t be fed to horses… and it’s left a lot of people second-guessing what they’re doing.
But straw isn’t some new or risky trend; it’s actually been used for years, and for good reason.
Quite simply, straw is very low in calories but still provides fibre. That makes it really useful for horses that hold weight easily, need their intake controlled, or are on restricted diets. By adding straw into a forage ration, you can bulk it out without piling in extra energy and calories.
It also takes horses longer to chew. That means more time eating, more saliva production, and a more natural, trickle-feeding pattern, all of which support digestive health and help prevent long periods without forage.
That’s why you’ll often see straw used alongside hay or haylage, rather than instead of it. It helps slow things down and stretch the ration out.
Of course, it’s not for every horse. It needs to be good quality, introduced gradually, and fed appropriately. But when it’s used correctly, it’s a really practical add in to your horse`s diet.
If you’re not sure whether straw has a place in your horse’s diet, just ask 👇
We’ve seen a few posts lately saying straw shouldn’t be fed to horses… and it’s left a lot of people second-guessing what they’re doing.
But straw isn’t some new or risky trend; it’s actually been used for years, and for good reason.
Quite simply, straw is very low in calories but still provides fibre. That makes it really useful for horses that hold weight easily, need their intake controlled, or are on restricted diets. By adding straw into a forage ration, you can bulk it out without piling in extra energy and calories.
It also takes horses longer to chew. That means more time eating, more saliva production, and a more natural, trickle-feeding pattern, all of which support digestive health and help prevent long periods without forage.
That’s why you’ll often see straw used alongside hay or haylage, rather than instead of it. It helps slow things down and stretch the ration out.
Of course, it’s not for every horse. It needs to be good quality, introduced gradually, and fed appropriately. But when it’s used correctly, it’s a really practical add in to your horse`s diet.
If you’re not sure whether straw has a place in your horse’s diet, just ask 👇
Looking after a laminitis-prone horse? All of the Pure Feed range (except Pure Performance) are suitable, but these are the ones we love most:
✨ Balance – low-calorie, molasses and cereal-free balancer.
✨ Fibre Balance – delivers our balancer and low-calorie chaff in a smaller ration.
✨ Easy – low-calorie, slow-release energy ideal for horses in light to medium work.
✨ Herbal Treats – a tasty, natural way to reward your horse, free from molasses and cereal!
Keep your horse comfortable, happy, and supported with our laminitis-friendly favourites 🩵
Looking after a laminitis-prone horse? All of the Pure Feed range (except Pure Performance) are suitable, but these are the ones we love most:
✨ Balance – low-calorie, molasses and cereal-free balancer.
✨ Fibre Balance – delivers our balancer and low-calorie chaff in a smaller ration.
✨ Easy – low-calorie, slow-release energy ideal for horses in light to medium work.
✨ Herbal Treats – a tasty, natural way to reward your horse, free from molasses and cereal!
Keep your horse comfortable, happy, and supported with our laminitis-friendly favourites 🩵
✨ Switching to Pure Feed couldn’t be easier! Follow these simple steps to get your horse thriving on a gut-friendly, stress-free feeding plan 🐴💛
Step-by-Step Guide:
1️⃣ Fill out our diet plan to discover which Pure Feed product is perfect for your horse.
2️⃣ Use the stockist map to find your nearest retailer.
3️⃣ Pick up your first bag of Pure Feed.
4️⃣ Transition slowly: gradually reduce your current feed while increasing Pure Feed over 7–10 days.
5️⃣ Watch your horse thrive on a diet that supports their gut and overall well-being!
💡 Tip: Keep an eye on their weight and behaviour during the transition
Ready to make feeding simple and stress-free? Tap the link in bio to start your horse’s Pure Feed journey today!
✨ Switching to Pure Feed couldn’t be easier! Follow these simple steps to get your horse thriving on a gut-friendly, stress-free feeding plan 🐴💛
Step-by-Step Guide:
1️⃣ Fill out our diet plan to discover which Pure Feed product is perfect for your horse.
2️⃣ Use the stockist map to find your nearest retailer.
3️⃣ Pick up your first bag of Pure Feed.
4️⃣ Transition slowly: gradually reduce your current feed while increasing Pure Feed over 7–10 days.
5️⃣ Watch your horse thrive on a diet that supports their gut and overall well-being!
💡 Tip: Keep an eye on their weight and behaviour during the transition
Ready to make feeding simple and stress-free? Tap the link in bio to start your horse’s Pure Feed journey today!
Meet the core of the Pure Feed range. Three feeds formulated to suit each calorie requirement.
💚 Pure Easy – Perfect for horses that maintain weight easily, this feed provides all the essential nutrients without excess energy. Ideal for horses in light work or those prone to weight gain.
💙 Pure Working – Designed for horses in regular work, this feed delivers steady energy and complete nutrition. With a balanced protein and fibre profile, it supports condition and sustained energy for consistent performance without overloading on calories.
💛 Pure Condition – Ideal for horses who need extra calorie support, this feed provides slow-release energy sources to support stamina, explosive power, and recovery. Perfect for competition horses, heavy work, or those needing to gain and maintain condition efficiently.
Together, these three cover most everyday feeding needs, making it easy to choose the right feed for your horse’s lifestyle 🐎
Meet the core of the Pure Feed range. Three feeds formulated to suit each calorie requirement.
💚 Pure Easy – Perfect for horses that maintain weight easily, this feed provides all the essential nutrients without excess energy. Ideal for horses in light work or those prone to weight gain.
💙 Pure Working – Designed for horses in regular work, this feed delivers steady energy and complete nutrition. With a balanced protein and fibre profile, it supports condition and sustained energy for consistent performance without overloading on calories.
💛 Pure Condition – Ideal for horses who need extra calorie support, this feed provides slow-release energy sources to support stamina, explosive power, and recovery. Perfect for competition horses, heavy work, or those needing to gain and maintain condition efficiently.
Together, these three cover most everyday feeding needs, making it easy to choose the right feed for your horse’s lifestyle 🐎
What people say about Pure Feed
