FEED ADVICE – HEALTH
Equine Metabolic Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a complex condition affecting horses and ponies, characterized by insulin dysregulation and an increased risk of laminitis. Insulin dysregulation in EMS leads to abnormal responses to dietary carbohydrates, causing increased insulin secretion and elevated blood glucose levels. This imbalance can result in clinical signs such as obesity, regional fat deposition, infertility, and laminitis.
EMS is often seen in Native breeds such as Welsh, Dartmoor and Shetland ponies, as well as in certain horse breeds like Arabian and Warmbloods. However, it can affect horses of any breed or age.
Key Highlights
EMS involves insulin dysregulation and a high risk of laminitis, especially in ponies and overweight horses.
Risk factors include obesity, breed predisposition, and high-NSC diets (e.g., sugary/starchy feeds).
Signs include a cresty neck, fat pads, and recurrent laminitis.
Management focuses on diet, weight loss, exercise, and vet care to reduce risks and support long-term wellbeing.
Understanding EMS
EMS is an endocrine disorder where horses struggle to regulate the release of insulin. In normal horses, insulin prompts tissue to absorb glucose after a meal. With EMS, fat deposits release hormones that interfere with tissue response to insulin, causing “insulin resistance”. The pancreas increases insulin release to counteract this, resulting in elevated insulin levels after meals and sometimes throughout the day. This mirrors metabolic issues in human type 2 diabetes.
Causes and Risk Factors of Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)
Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) has various causes and risk factors, including both genetic predisposition and environmental influences. While the exact underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, research suggests that EMS is a multifactorial condition with complex interactions between genetics, diet, and other factors.
Genetic Predisposition
Genetics play a significant role in the development of equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Certain breeds, such as ponies, donkeys and Arabians, are more susceptible to EMS due to their genetic makeup. These breeds have evolved in harsh environments where resources were limited, leading to a higher efficiency in metabolizing dietary carbohydrates and storing energy.
Within these breeds, there may be individual horses with specific genetic factors that contribute to their inability to respond properly to dietary carbohydrates. These hereditary factors can result in insulin dysregulation and increased risk of developing EMS.
While genetic predisposition is a significant factor, it is essential to note that environmental influences and lifestyle factors also contribute to the development and progression of EMS. Therefore, a holistic approach that considers both genetic and environmental factors is necessary for managing EMS in horses.
Obesity
Obesity in horses can lead to Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) primarily due to its role in promoting insulin resistance. Excess adipose tissue releases inflammatory substances and hormones, which interfere with insulin signalling pathways. This insulin resistance causes cells to become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated insulin levels as the pancreas compensates. Chronic high insulin levels are a key feature of EMS and contribute to metabolic disturbances such as increased fat deposition.
Dietary Factors
Diets high in easily digestible carbohydrates, such as cereals and rich grass, can overwhelm the horse’s digestive system and lead to spikes in blood glucose levels. This frequent exposure to high-carbohydrate meals can result in insulin resistance over time, as the cells become less responsive to insulin’s signals to take up glucose. Consequently, the pancreas compensates by producing more insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, which can eventually lead to elevated insulin concentrations – a clinical sign of EMS.
Lack of Exercise
The lack of exercise contributes to EMS by reducing insulin sensitivity in horses. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining insulin sensitivity by promoting glucose uptake into muscles, which helps regulate blood glucose levels effectively. Without adequate exercise, muscles become less responsive to insulin, leading to insulin resistance. This resistance prompts the pancreas to produce more insulin to compensate, eventually resulting in elevated insulin levels—a key characteristic of EMS. Additionally, sedentary horses are more prone to obesity as unused energy from feed is stored as fat, exacerbating insulin resistance and further increasing the risk of EMS.
Recognising clinical signs of EMS
Recognising the clinical signs of EMS is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. Here are some important symptoms to watch out for:
Management and Prevention Strategies
Exercise Strategies
Exercise plays a crucial role in managing EMS primarily by improving insulin sensitivity and promoting weight loss. Strategies include daily turnout in with controlled grazing, which encourages natural movement and reduces obesity risk. Incorporating regular sessions of walking, trotting, and occasional cantering helps improve cardiovascular fitness and muscle tone without undue stress on joints. Additional activities such as lunging, groundwork, hacking on varied terrain, and in-hand work with obstacles provide mental stimulation, enhance coordination, and promote muscle development. For horses needing low-impact options, swimming offers a beneficial alternative. It’s crucial to monitor each horse’s response, gradually increase exercise intensity to prevent injury.
While medications that improve insulin sensitivity are used in human metabolic syndrome, their efficacy in horses, such as metformin, remains uncertain due to absorption concerns. Various supplements like chromium, magnesium, cinnamon, and chasteberry extract have been suggested for EMS in horses, but current evidence does not support their efficacy, and their use cannot be recommended.
Diagnosis of EMS
Diagnosing EMS typically begins with an assessment based on the appearance of obesity and a history of laminitis. To confirm EMS and assess insulin resistance accurately, testing should be conducted after the horse has fasted and is not in pain or stressed (e.g., during a laminitis episode). Diagnostic methods include:
Dietary Strategies for a Horse with EMS
The key principles for preventing and treating Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) are straightforward: implement dietary restriction and encourage regular exercise. These measures not only promote weight loss but also enhance overall fitness, improving insulin responsiveness.
Dietary Adjustments:
Did you know all of Pure Feed’s low calorie range is suitable for horses with EMS?
Limiting field access, especially during periods of lush growth such as Spring, helps control carbohydrate intake and prevent insulin spikes.
Did you know all of Pure Feeds complete feeds already contain a balancer! So already contain all of the essential nutrients required!
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, sourced from fish oil or linseed oil, may further reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and enhance cardiovascular function in horses with EMS.
Pure Linseed is a great source of Omega 3 – and a little goes a long way! Check it out here
Managing insulin spikes with strategies like feeding frequent small meals helps promotes stable blood glucose levels, contributing to effective EMS management.
Consider weight loss strategies such as using a grazing muzzle, soaking hay and triple netting to help control obesity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing EMS requires a well-rounded approach. Early recognition of clinical symptoms, like obesity and recurrent laminitis is key for timely treatment. Effective management includes providing a low-NSC (non-structural carbohydrate) diet, limiting field access, ensuring a balanced intake of essential nutrients, and supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids. Regular, appropriate exercise enhances insulin sensitivity and aids in weight loss. Consistent monitoring and veterinary guidance are essential to prevent complications like laminitis and to improve the horse’s overall health.
What we recommend for horses with EMS
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We had a fantastic time at the Pony Tales Annual Charity Day in support of World Horse Welfare 🐴
Our giveaway winner, Abi, joined us for the day looking incredibly smart in her Pure Feed merchandise! 🩵
Together, the event raised an amazing £10,252 for charity! 🤩
Thank you to Pony Tales for letting us be part of such a special day, and we hope Abi & Dilly had a wonderful time!
@ponytalesdorset @horsecharity
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #worldhorsewelfare #ponytalesdorset #charityday #fundraiser
We had a fantastic time at the Pony Tales Annual Charity Day in support of World Horse Welfare 🐴
Our giveaway winner, Abi, joined us for the day looking incredibly smart in her Pure Feed merchandise! 🩵
Together, the event raised an amazing £10,252 for charity! 🤩
Thank you to Pony Tales for letting us be part of such a special day, and we hope Abi & Dilly had a wonderful time!
@ponytalesdorset @horsecharity
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #worldhorsewelfare #ponytalesdorset #charityday #fundraiser
What’s really going on when your horse has Cushing’s? 🐴
Cushing’s (properly called Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction – PPID) is a progressive condition affecting the pituitary gland in your horse’s brain.
In a normal horse, this gland helps control hormones like ACTH, which regulate cortisol (the stress hormone).
When a horse has PPID, the pituitary gland control system breaks down, and too much ACTH is released, resulting in high cortisol levels (aka high stress levels!)
This can affect:
🩵 Metabolism
🩵 Immune system
🩵 Tissue repair
📌 Key facts:
Most common in horses 15+ but can appear earlier
Not curable, but can be managed with the right vet care, diet & management
Spotting early signs like subtle coat or behaviour changes is important
A simple ACTH blood test via your vet can confirm 💡
With the right support, horses with PPID can still live active, happy lives for many years.
All of the Pure Feed range is suitable for horses with his condition (excluding Pure Performance). For an in-depth guide to feeding your horse, apply for a free personalised diet plan today on our website.
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #equinenutrition #ppid #cushingsdisease #ppidsupport
What’s really going on when your horse has Cushing’s? 🐴
Cushing’s (properly called Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction – PPID) is a progressive condition affecting the pituitary gland in your horse’s brain.
In a normal horse, this gland helps control hormones like ACTH, which regulate cortisol (the stress hormone).
When a horse has PPID, the pituitary gland control system breaks down, and too much ACTH is released, resulting in high cortisol levels (aka high stress levels!)
This can affect:
🩵 Metabolism
🩵 Immune system
🩵 Tissue repair
📌 Key facts:
Most common in horses 15+ but can appear earlier
Not curable, but can be managed with the right vet care, diet & management
Spotting early signs like subtle coat or behaviour changes is important
A simple ACTH blood test via your vet can confirm 💡
With the right support, horses with PPID can still live active, happy lives for many years.
All of the Pure Feed range is suitable for horses with his condition (excluding Pure Performance). For an in-depth guide to feeding your horse, apply for a free personalised diet plan today on our website.
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #equinenutrition #ppid #cushingsdisease #ppidsupport
Are you worried about hay shortages, quality or price?
This year, we’re hearing the same thing from yards across the country:
🔹 Lower hay yields
🔹 Skyrocketing prices
🔹 Bales arriving late or not at all
🔹 And when they do? Inconsistent quality and unpredictable sugar levels
All of this makes it harder to manage your horse’s diet especially if they’re sensitive, on soaked forage, or prone to weight loss.
That’s where Pure Meadow Mash steps in.
🌿 Made from super fibres, it provides a highly digestible, low-sugar source of fibre, calories and hydration, no surprises, no stress.
Unlike hay, which can vary in protein, sugar, and digestibility depending on the cut, weather and storage, Pure Meadow Mash delivers consistent, controlled nutrition in every bowl.
Why choose it?
✔️ A reliable forage replacer; perfect if hay is in short supply or poor quality
✔️ Very low sugar and starch; suitable for laminitics, PPID and EMS
✔️ Soft, soaked fibre; ideal for older horses, dental issues or fussy eaters
✔️ Supports digestion and hydration; especially valuable in cold weather when horses drink less
It’s everything we wish hay could be this year: consistent, balanced, and ready when you need it.
Learn more about Pure Feed Meadow Mash on our website (link in bio 💻)
#purefeed #equinenutrition #allyoufeedislove #meadowmash
Are you worried about hay shortages, quality or price?
This year, we’re hearing the same thing from yards across the country:
🔹 Lower hay yields
🔹 Skyrocketing prices
🔹 Bales arriving late or not at all
🔹 And when they do? Inconsistent quality and unpredictable sugar levels
All of this makes it harder to manage your horse’s diet especially if they’re sensitive, on soaked forage, or prone to weight loss.
That’s where Pure Meadow Mash steps in.
🌿 Made from super fibres, it provides a highly digestible, low-sugar source of fibre, calories and hydration, no surprises, no stress.
Unlike hay, which can vary in protein, sugar, and digestibility depending on the cut, weather and storage, Pure Meadow Mash delivers consistent, controlled nutrition in every bowl.
Why choose it?
✔️ A reliable forage replacer; perfect if hay is in short supply or poor quality
✔️ Very low sugar and starch; suitable for laminitics, PPID and EMS
✔️ Soft, soaked fibre; ideal for older horses, dental issues or fussy eaters
✔️ Supports digestion and hydration; especially valuable in cold weather when horses drink less
It’s everything we wish hay could be this year: consistent, balanced, and ready when you need it.
Learn more about Pure Feed Meadow Mash on our website (link in bio 💻)
#purefeed #equinenutrition #allyoufeedislove #meadowmash
✨ GIVEAWAY TIME! ✨
We’re giving you the chance to win the ultimate Pure Feed look - our always popular, highly sought-after kit! 🐴💛
The Prize includes:
• The legendary Pure Feed branded Stormtech gilet
• Exclusive money-can’t-buy Pure Feed branded Le Mieux saddle pad (in cc or dr)
• £20 Pure Feed voucher towards your horse’s favourite feed
How to enter:
1️⃣ Make sure you’re following @thepurefeedcompany
2️⃣ Tag a friend in the comments (each new comment with a tag counts as an entry!)
📅 The winner will be announced on the 30th September
🏆 The winner will be picked at random and contacted directly by us
🇬🇧 UK entries only
This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram or Meta.
Good luck 🍀
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #equinegiveaway
✨ GIVEAWAY TIME! ✨
We’re giving you the chance to win the ultimate Pure Feed look - our always popular, highly sought-after kit! 🐴💛
The Prize includes:
• The legendary Pure Feed branded Stormtech gilet
• Exclusive money-can’t-buy Pure Feed branded Le Mieux saddle pad (in cc or dr)
• £20 Pure Feed voucher towards your horse’s favourite feed
How to enter:
1️⃣ Make sure you’re following @thepurefeedcompany
2️⃣ Tag a friend in the comments (each new comment with a tag counts as an entry!)
📅 The winner will be announced on the 30th September
🏆 The winner will be picked at random and contacted directly by us
🇬🇧 UK entries only
This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram or Meta.
Good luck 🍀
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #equinegiveaway
We’re pleased to share that Horse & Hen are a Pure Feed stockist! 🛒
@horse_and_hen
📞 01629 55084
You can find Horse & Hen in Matlock, 📍 DE4 5ND
For more information have a look at their website www.horseandhen.co.uk 💻
We love supporting our stockists! If you supply Pure Feed and would like us to showcase your business, please reach out to marketing@purefeed.com for your own stockist spotlight post ⭐️
Alternatively if you`re a retailer interested in stocking Pure Feed, we’d love to hear from you!
#Proudtostockpurefeed #thepurefeedcompany #purefeed
We’re pleased to share that Horse & Hen are a Pure Feed stockist! 🛒
@horse_and_hen
📞 01629 55084
You can find Horse & Hen in Matlock, 📍 DE4 5ND
For more information have a look at their website www.horseandhen.co.uk 💻
We love supporting our stockists! If you supply Pure Feed and would like us to showcase your business, please reach out to marketing@purefeed.com for your own stockist spotlight post ⭐️
Alternatively if you`re a retailer interested in stocking Pure Feed, we’d love to hear from you!
#Proudtostockpurefeed #thepurefeedcompany #purefeed
🥣 Meadow Mash = box rest saviour!
Tara might wear more than she eats, but this simple feed was a real game changer for her. During a period of box rest she started refusing her normal hay, which made it tricky to keep her fibre intake and hydration levels up.
Enter Meadow Mash. Its soft, soaked fibre was easy for her to eat, helped her stay hydrated, and most importantly, kept her gut moving when she needed it most!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #dietplan #equinenutrition
🥣 Meadow Mash = box rest saviour!
Tara might wear more than she eats, but this simple feed was a real game changer for her. During a period of box rest she started refusing her normal hay, which made it tricky to keep her fibre intake and hydration levels up.
Enter Meadow Mash. Its soft, soaked fibre was easy for her to eat, helped her stay hydrated, and most importantly, kept her gut moving when she needed it most!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #dietplan #equinenutrition
When Meadow Mash just tastes that good 👅
Did you know you can feed up to 1 kg per 100kg body weight of the horse per day!
Designed to mimic the nutritional value of hay, Pure Meadow Mash is suitable for a variety of horses, from older horses with poor dentition to competition horses needing extra fibre and hydration. It can be used as a partial hay replacer and soaks in just 5 minutes 🙌
📍to find your nearest stockist, head on over to our interactive map on our website.
#purefeed #allyoufeedislove #thepurefeedcompany #equinenutrition
When Meadow Mash just tastes that good 👅
Did you know you can feed up to 1 kg per 100kg body weight of the horse per day!
Designed to mimic the nutritional value of hay, Pure Meadow Mash is suitable for a variety of horses, from older horses with poor dentition to competition horses needing extra fibre and hydration. It can be used as a partial hay replacer and soaks in just 5 minutes 🙌
📍to find your nearest stockist, head on over to our interactive map on our website.
#purefeed #allyoufeedislove #thepurefeedcompany #equinenutrition
Meadow Mash Feeding Rate 💙
Feeding your horse doesn`t have to be complicated. We`ve made it easy to determine the right amount of Meadow Mash to feed your horse.
👉 Low sugar and starch content- suitable for those needing a low starch diet due to laminitis
👉 Quick soaking
👉 Palatable- with added herbs and mint to tempt fussy eaters
👉 High fibre and with added pre and probiotics to support gut health
👉 Ideal for older horses or those with poor dentition
👉 Can be used as a low-dust alternative forage for hay
If you`re unsure of their nutritional requirements, our experts can provide a free diet plan and answer any questions you may have. Our team is here to help whenever you need through the phone, email or direct message!
📞 01458 333 333
💻 www.purefeed.com
💬 Direct Message us
#thepurefeedcompany #puremeadowmash #feedingrates #allyoufeedislove #purefeed
Meadow Mash Feeding Rate 💙
Feeding your horse doesn`t have to be complicated. We`ve made it easy to determine the right amount of Meadow Mash to feed your horse.
👉 Low sugar and starch content- suitable for those needing a low starch diet due to laminitis
👉 Quick soaking
👉 Palatable- with added herbs and mint to tempt fussy eaters
👉 High fibre and with added pre and probiotics to support gut health
👉 Ideal for older horses or those with poor dentition
👉 Can be used as a low-dust alternative forage for hay
If you`re unsure of their nutritional requirements, our experts can provide a free diet plan and answer any questions you may have. Our team is here to help whenever you need through the phone, email or direct message!
📞 01458 333 333
💻 www.purefeed.com
💬 Direct Message us
#thepurefeedcompany #puremeadowmash #feedingrates #allyoufeedislove #purefeed
#Throwback to an amazing day at the Pony Tales Annual Charity Day in support of World Horse Welfare 🩵
We were so proud to be part of an event that raised an incredible £10,252 for such an important cause! 🙌
A huge thank you to everyone who came along - we hope you all had a wonderful time.
@horsecharity @ponytalesdorset
#purefeed #thepurefeedcompany #ponytalesdorset #equinenutrition #allyoufeedislove
#Throwback to an amazing day at the Pony Tales Annual Charity Day in support of World Horse Welfare 🩵
We were so proud to be part of an event that raised an incredible £10,252 for such an important cause! 🙌
A huge thank you to everyone who came along - we hope you all had a wonderful time.
@horsecharity @ponytalesdorset
#purefeed #thepurefeedcompany #ponytalesdorset #equinenutrition #allyoufeedislove
Spotting the Signs of Cushing`s early? 👀
The clinical signs of PPID develop gradually, and in the early stages they can be easily overlooked. Understanding what to look for allows for earlier intervention, which improves long-term management.
Common clinical signs include:
🩵 Changes in coat – A longer, often curly coat that doesn’t shed fully in summer (hirsutism) is a hallmark sign, but early PPID can cause a subtle delay in shedding rather than a dramatic coat change.
🩵 Abnormal fat distribution – Fat pads may develop above the eyes, along the crest of the neck, or over the tailhead, while muscle loss occurs over the topline.
🩵 Lethargy and reduced performance – Horses may seem less willing to work or tire more quickly.
🩵 Increased thirst and urination – Linked to hormonal disruption affecting water balance.
🩵 Recurrent infections – Poor immune regulation means wounds heal more slowly and skin, respiratory, or hoof infections may occur more often.
🩵 Laminitis – One of the most serious complications. Even mild or recurring bouts warrant investigation for PPID, especially in older horses.
If you notice one or more of these signs, particularly in an older horse, speak to your vet about testing ACTH levels. Early diagnosis allows for medical treatment (such as pergolide) combined with dietary adjustments to better control symptoms.
As for diet, the Pure Feed range is suitable for horses with PPID (excluding Performance). We have a feed for you. To find the right one, fill out a FREE Personalised diet plan today and our nutrition team will email you an in-depth diet plan for your horse - available on the Pure Feed website 💻
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #dietplan #equinenutrition
Spotting the Signs of Cushing`s early? 👀
The clinical signs of PPID develop gradually, and in the early stages they can be easily overlooked. Understanding what to look for allows for earlier intervention, which improves long-term management.
Common clinical signs include:
🩵 Changes in coat – A longer, often curly coat that doesn’t shed fully in summer (hirsutism) is a hallmark sign, but early PPID can cause a subtle delay in shedding rather than a dramatic coat change.
🩵 Abnormal fat distribution – Fat pads may develop above the eyes, along the crest of the neck, or over the tailhead, while muscle loss occurs over the topline.
🩵 Lethargy and reduced performance – Horses may seem less willing to work or tire more quickly.
🩵 Increased thirst and urination – Linked to hormonal disruption affecting water balance.
🩵 Recurrent infections – Poor immune regulation means wounds heal more slowly and skin, respiratory, or hoof infections may occur more often.
🩵 Laminitis – One of the most serious complications. Even mild or recurring bouts warrant investigation for PPID, especially in older horses.
If you notice one or more of these signs, particularly in an older horse, speak to your vet about testing ACTH levels. Early diagnosis allows for medical treatment (such as pergolide) combined with dietary adjustments to better control symptoms.
As for diet, the Pure Feed range is suitable for horses with PPID (excluding Performance). We have a feed for you. To find the right one, fill out a FREE Personalised diet plan today and our nutrition team will email you an in-depth diet plan for your horse - available on the Pure Feed website 💻
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #dietplan #equinenutrition
Pure Meadow Mash is a versatile, fibre-rich feed designed to be fed soaked. While many horses enjoy it simply as part of their daily routine, it’s particularly valuable in situations where fibre quality, hydration, or digestive health need extra support.
When would I need to feed meadow mash?
1️⃣As a hay replacer for horses with dental issues
2️⃣ When pasture or hay quality is poor
3️⃣ For horses prone to laminitis
4️⃣ To encourage drinking and improve hydration
5️⃣ When travelling long distances
💻Learn more about Meadow Mash on our website – link in bio.
#purefeed #allyoufeedislove #thepurefeedcompany #equinenutrition #meadowmash
Pure Meadow Mash is a versatile, fibre-rich feed designed to be fed soaked. While many horses enjoy it simply as part of their daily routine, it’s particularly valuable in situations where fibre quality, hydration, or digestive health need extra support.
When would I need to feed meadow mash?
1️⃣As a hay replacer for horses with dental issues
2️⃣ When pasture or hay quality is poor
3️⃣ For horses prone to laminitis
4️⃣ To encourage drinking and improve hydration
5️⃣ When travelling long distances
💻Learn more about Meadow Mash on our website – link in bio.
#purefeed #allyoufeedislove #thepurefeedcompany #equinenutrition #meadowmash
Is your horse struggling with hay?
Forage should be the foundation of every diet, but sometimes hay alone isn’t enough. That’s where a hay replacer like Pure Meadow Mash comes in.
Signs your horse may need a hay replacer:
➡️ Difficulty chewing or quidding
➡️ Losing weight despite hay access
➡️ Refusing or eating hay very slowly
➡️ Poor hay quality or availability
➡️ Laminitis or metabolic concerns
A hay replacer isn’t just a “last resort”, it’s a proactive way to ensure your horse meets their fibre needs when chewing ability, forage quality, or medical considerations make traditional hay less suitable.
💡 Meadow Mash provides soft, easy-to-chew fibre, supports digestion, boosts hydration, and is gentle on sensitive horses.
📍 Want to try it? Use our interactive stockist map on our website to find Meadow Mash near you!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #meadowmash #equinenutrition #forage
Is your horse struggling with hay?
Forage should be the foundation of every diet, but sometimes hay alone isn’t enough. That’s where a hay replacer like Pure Meadow Mash comes in.
Signs your horse may need a hay replacer:
➡️ Difficulty chewing or quidding
➡️ Losing weight despite hay access
➡️ Refusing or eating hay very slowly
➡️ Poor hay quality or availability
➡️ Laminitis or metabolic concerns
A hay replacer isn’t just a “last resort”, it’s a proactive way to ensure your horse meets their fibre needs when chewing ability, forage quality, or medical considerations make traditional hay less suitable.
💡 Meadow Mash provides soft, easy-to-chew fibre, supports digestion, boosts hydration, and is gentle on sensitive horses.
📍 Want to try it? Use our interactive stockist map on our website to find Meadow Mash near you!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #meadowmash #equinenutrition #forage
Meet Ellis also known as @equiellis 👋
Ellis competes across Working Hunter, showjumping, dressage, and eventing. She keeps her horses in top condition by feeding a variety of Pure Feed mixes, including Easy, Stud, Veteran, and Performance – tailored to each horse’s needs.
Want to know which feed could work best for your horse? 📋 Try our free diet plan service today via the link in our bio.
#purefeed #poweredbypurefeed #allyoufeedislove #thepurefeedcompany #equinenutrition
Meet Ellis also known as @equiellis 👋
Ellis competes across Working Hunter, showjumping, dressage, and eventing. She keeps her horses in top condition by feeding a variety of Pure Feed mixes, including Easy, Stud, Veteran, and Performance – tailored to each horse’s needs.
Want to know which feed could work best for your horse? 📋 Try our free diet plan service today via the link in our bio.
#purefeed #poweredbypurefeed #allyoufeedislove #thepurefeedcompany #equinenutrition
"We love Pure Feed, the only feed keeping Lenny`s gut happy, it has been a life changer"
We absolutely love hearing feedback like this! 🙌
A very big thank you to Janice for sharing her story about Lenny and trusting Pure Feed to keep him feeling his best!
Every horse is different, which is why our team offers free personalised diet plans to help you find the perfect feed for your horse’s needs.
👉 Tap the link in our bio to request yours today!
Have you seen a difference since feeding Pure Feed? We’d love to hear your story too! Share it with us in the comments or drop us a message 💬
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #poweredbypurefeed #allyoufeedislove #equinenutrition
"We love Pure Feed, the only feed keeping Lenny`s gut happy, it has been a life changer"
We absolutely love hearing feedback like this! 🙌
A very big thank you to Janice for sharing her story about Lenny and trusting Pure Feed to keep him feeling his best!
Every horse is different, which is why our team offers free personalised diet plans to help you find the perfect feed for your horse’s needs.
👉 Tap the link in our bio to request yours today!
Have you seen a difference since feeding Pure Feed? We’d love to hear your story too! Share it with us in the comments or drop us a message 💬
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #poweredbypurefeed #allyoufeedislove #equinenutrition
At Pure Feed, we believe in keeping things simple, honest, and effective. That’s why we’ve taken the step to make all our mixes completely soya-free.
Why?
🔬 Because soya isn`t for every horse. While it`s a common protein source, some horses can be sensitive to it and many owners are looking for feed that avoids soya for digestive, behavioural, or environmental reasons.
💡We`ve reformulated our recipes using linseed and rapeseed oil instead, giving you:
✔️ Natural, slow-release energy
✔️ Excellent coat shine and skin support
✔️ A rich source of omega 3s and quality protein without the reliance on imported soya
🌍 Plus, this shift supports our move toward GMO-free, more sustainable formulations without compromising performance or palatability.
From happy hackers to top-level eventers, more horses than ever are thriving on our complete, soya-free mixes.
✅ All still cereal-free (except Performance), molasses-free, and fully balanced with vitamins, minerals, digestive support and more - so you don’t need to add a thing.
Not sure which of our soya-free mixes is right for your horse? Fill out our free diet plan form today and our expert nutrition team will put together a tailored plan to suit your horse’s needs ➡️ link in bio!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #equinenutrition #soyafree
At Pure Feed, we believe in keeping things simple, honest, and effective. That’s why we’ve taken the step to make all our mixes completely soya-free.
Why?
🔬 Because soya isn`t for every horse. While it`s a common protein source, some horses can be sensitive to it and many owners are looking for feed that avoids soya for digestive, behavioural, or environmental reasons.
💡We`ve reformulated our recipes using linseed and rapeseed oil instead, giving you:
✔️ Natural, slow-release energy
✔️ Excellent coat shine and skin support
✔️ A rich source of omega 3s and quality protein without the reliance on imported soya
🌍 Plus, this shift supports our move toward GMO-free, more sustainable formulations without compromising performance or palatability.
From happy hackers to top-level eventers, more horses than ever are thriving on our complete, soya-free mixes.
✅ All still cereal-free (except Performance), molasses-free, and fully balanced with vitamins, minerals, digestive support and more - so you don’t need to add a thing.
Not sure which of our soya-free mixes is right for your horse? Fill out our free diet plan form today and our expert nutrition team will put together a tailored plan to suit your horse’s needs ➡️ link in bio!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #equinenutrition #soyafree
You asked "How do I restrict my horse’s grazing?" and we`re here to help! 🌱
When grass sugars spike: during a heatwave, cold snap, flush of new growth, or if your horse could live on fresh air, restricting grazing is essential for those prone to laminitis, EMS, Cushing’s, or weight gain.
But here’s the catch… it’s not just about less time in the field ⏳. To do it right, you need to understand both grass physiology and equine digestion.
Here’s what the science says:
1️⃣ Strip grazing / track systems - Manage area, not just time. Horses can eat up to 50% of daily intake in just 3 - 4 hours of open grazing!
2️⃣ Time-restricted grazing (with caution) - Night turnout can lower sugar intake, but weather, temperature & grass type matter.
3️⃣ Grazing muzzles - Can cut intake by 75 - 85% when used correctly.
4️⃣ Low-NSC forage - Use soaked hay with a known profile, and don’t forget the nutrients.
💡 Why it matters: Less grass = less protein, copper, zinc, selenium, vitamin E, and more. Without replacing these, you risk:
➡️ Poor hoof growth
➡️ Dull coat
➡️ Muscle loss
➡️ Low mood or energy
✅ That’s where a balancer comes in - filling those micronutrient gaps without adding sugar or unnecessary calories. At Pure Feed, all our complete feeds and standalone balancer options are designed with this in mind: low-NSC, cereal-free, and high in bioavailable vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Want to know exactly what your horse needs? Get your FREE personalised diet plan today, link in bio 🙌
#purefeed #equinenutrition #thepurefeedcompany #allyoufeedislove #EMS #laminitis #restrictedgrazing #horsehealth #feedinghorses
You asked "How do I restrict my horse’s grazing?" and we`re here to help! 🌱
When grass sugars spike: during a heatwave, cold snap, flush of new growth, or if your horse could live on fresh air, restricting grazing is essential for those prone to laminitis, EMS, Cushing’s, or weight gain.
But here’s the catch… it’s not just about less time in the field ⏳. To do it right, you need to understand both grass physiology and equine digestion.
Here’s what the science says:
1️⃣ Strip grazing / track systems - Manage area, not just time. Horses can eat up to 50% of daily intake in just 3 - 4 hours of open grazing!
2️⃣ Time-restricted grazing (with caution) - Night turnout can lower sugar intake, but weather, temperature & grass type matter.
3️⃣ Grazing muzzles - Can cut intake by 75 - 85% when used correctly.
4️⃣ Low-NSC forage - Use soaked hay with a known profile, and don’t forget the nutrients.
💡 Why it matters: Less grass = less protein, copper, zinc, selenium, vitamin E, and more. Without replacing these, you risk:
➡️ Poor hoof growth
➡️ Dull coat
➡️ Muscle loss
➡️ Low mood or energy
✅ That’s where a balancer comes in - filling those micronutrient gaps without adding sugar or unnecessary calories. At Pure Feed, all our complete feeds and standalone balancer options are designed with this in mind: low-NSC, cereal-free, and high in bioavailable vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Want to know exactly what your horse needs? Get your FREE personalised diet plan today, link in bio 🙌
#purefeed #equinenutrition #thepurefeedcompany #allyoufeedislove #EMS #laminitis #restrictedgrazing #horsehealth #feedinghorses
A big shout out to our 70cm competitors from @horse_event5 Broadway ODE 🎉
🥇Gabi Wilton-Baker & NPS MIA
🥈 Kathy Emery & Rocky
🥉 Sue Clothier & Patch
A huge thank you to all of the volunteers who made the weekend possible and we can’t wait to see you all at the next 🙌
Liked the ReFuel sample and want to know more? Head on over to our website 🍒 or ask us a question in the comments ⤵️
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #refuel #horseevents
A big shout out to our 70cm competitors from @horse_event5 Broadway ODE 🎉
🥇Gabi Wilton-Baker & NPS MIA
🥈 Kathy Emery & Rocky
🥉 Sue Clothier & Patch
A huge thank you to all of the volunteers who made the weekend possible and we can’t wait to see you all at the next 🙌
Liked the ReFuel sample and want to know more? Head on over to our website 🍒 or ask us a question in the comments ⤵️
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #refuel #horseevents
"My horse lives out 24/7, they`re a good doer, why would I bother feeding a balancer?"
It’s a common question and a logical one. If your horse is out all day, grazing constantly, surely they’re getting everything they need? 🤷
Not quite.
While grass provides bulk, calories, and some nutrients, it’s rarely nutritionally complete, especially in modern UK grazing systems. In fact, many of the essential micronutrients horses require for long-term health are either in short supply, highly variable, or blocked by other elements in the diet.
UK soils are naturally low in copper, zinc, selenium & iodine, and modern ryegrass is bred for sugar, not minerals. Plus, high iron and potassium can block absorption of key elements.
✅ A balancer is your nutritional safety net. It provides:
🔹 Chelated minerals for optimum absorption
🔹 Essential amino acids for topline, skin and hooves
🔹 Antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium
🔹 B vitamins for energy metabolism and focus
🔹 Digestive support to help the gut cope with variable forage
All in a concentrated, low-calorie, cereal-free format.
So even if your horse is at grass 24/7, a balancer ensures they’re not just getting by but thriving. It covers the invisible shortfalls in modern forage and supports long-term metabolic balance, resilience and performance.
📍Find your local stockist through the interactive map on our website. It`s simple, type in your postcode and our map will do the rest!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #purebalance #allyoufeedislove
"My horse lives out 24/7, they`re a good doer, why would I bother feeding a balancer?"
It’s a common question and a logical one. If your horse is out all day, grazing constantly, surely they’re getting everything they need? 🤷
Not quite.
While grass provides bulk, calories, and some nutrients, it’s rarely nutritionally complete, especially in modern UK grazing systems. In fact, many of the essential micronutrients horses require for long-term health are either in short supply, highly variable, or blocked by other elements in the diet.
UK soils are naturally low in copper, zinc, selenium & iodine, and modern ryegrass is bred for sugar, not minerals. Plus, high iron and potassium can block absorption of key elements.
✅ A balancer is your nutritional safety net. It provides:
🔹 Chelated minerals for optimum absorption
🔹 Essential amino acids for topline, skin and hooves
🔹 Antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium
🔹 B vitamins for energy metabolism and focus
🔹 Digestive support to help the gut cope with variable forage
All in a concentrated, low-calorie, cereal-free format.
So even if your horse is at grass 24/7, a balancer ensures they’re not just getting by but thriving. It covers the invisible shortfalls in modern forage and supports long-term metabolic balance, resilience and performance.
📍Find your local stockist through the interactive map on our website. It`s simple, type in your postcode and our map will do the rest!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #purebalance #allyoufeedislove
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