The foundation is constant access to hay, including during transport and at the competition venue. Hay supplies not only energy, but also steadies the stomach and gives the horse a sense of security. Small-mesh nets are worth using, as they extend eating time and stop large portions being swallowed quickly. Even a short lack of fibre in stressful situations can lead to excess stomach acid and irritation.
Support for the gut microflora is just as important. Stress can upset the balance of the gut, causing diarrhoea or raising the risk of colic. It is therefore worth enriching the diet with feed yeast, prebiotics and probiotics, and with gentle sources of fibre, that is a mash or unmolassed sugar beet pulp. An extra meal of this kind supports digestion and steadies the digestive system, even in new and demanding conditions. Remember that sudden feed changes just before a competition can increase stress and lead to stomach problems. If you plan to introduce new ingredients, do it gradually, several weeks before you travel, so the horse’s body has time to adjust.
When travelling to competitions it is also best to limit feeds that are rich in starch and sugars. Oats, barley or maize can increase nervousness and burden the stomach in stressful situations. It is better for the diet to be based on low-starch, high-fibre feeds, enriched with vegetable oils such as linseed oil. Oil not only raises the calorie content of the meal, but also supports coat condition, immunity and the muscles.
Minerals and electrolytes should not be forgotten in the diet of a horse that is competing. Magnesium supports the nervous system and eases muscle tension, and electrolytes are essential when the horse sweats during transport or at a competition. In addition, calming herbs such as lemon balm or chamomile can ease stress if they are given in pure form, or in safe feed mixes intended for horses competing at events. This kind of natural support helps to keep the horse calm, without affecting its results or exposing it to problems under the rules.
To sum up, a horse’s first trips to competitions do not have to end in stomach problems. Constant access to fibre, support for the gut microflora, the right minerals and electrolytes, and introducing dietary changes calmly are the basic principles that help to keep the horse healthy and comfortable at competitions, and help it to achieve better results! 💖