Good care starts
with understanding.

01 / Make an informed choice

How to choose horse supplements

Begin with a clear question: what are you trying to support? A horse in regular work, a horse facing a change of routine and a horse with an identified nutritional gap may need different approaches. Make a note of the current ration, workload and any other supplements before comparing products.

Read the intended use, ingredients and feeding instructions together. Similar names or formats do not mean that formulas or amounts are interchangeable. When combining products, check for overlapping nutrients and ask a qualified professional if you are unsure.

1. Review the complete ration and daily routine.
2. Choose a specific area of support.
3. Compare formulas and product-specific directions.
4. Measure carefully and keep a record of changes.

02 / Everyday wellbeing

Digestive care: start with the feeding routine

Forage is central to a horse’s diet, and a consistent routine helps you manage feeding carefully. Review forage quality and avoid abrupt changes to the ration. Fresh water should be readily available.

When comparing digestive supplements, distinguish stomach support from hindgut support. Gastro Aid and Vitaflora have different intended roles, so check the exact formula and feeding instructions. Persistent discomfort, reduced appetite or suspected gastric ulcers require veterinary assessment.

Further reading: British Horse Society feeding guidance.

03 / Work, travel & warm weather

Electrolytes for horses: where do they fit?

Sweating leads to the loss of water and mineral salts. Electrolyte products are designed to help replace those salts when losses increase. They are part of hydration management, alongside access to fresh drinking water.

Compare the powder and liquid formats available, then follow the instructions for the exact product. Consider workload, conditions and the complete ration when deciding how electrolyte support fits your horse’s routine.

Further reading: Cavalor on electrolyte support.

04 / Routine & confidence

Choosing calming supplements for horses

First consider the circumstances in which your horse becomes unsettled. Travel, unfamiliar surroundings and changes in routine call for careful preparation and management. An unexplained change in behaviour may also signal discomfort, so seek advice where needed.

Compare daily-use products with pastes intended for particular situations. Read the timing and feeding directions rather than assuming a product will act immediately or suit every horse. For competition, check the current rules and manufacturer guidance.

05 / Training & recovery

Support muscles, joints and healthy movement

Plan nutrition alongside an appropriate exercise programme and recovery time. Joint maintenance, muscle function and recovery after demanding work are different goals. Choose the relevant category before comparing products.

Keep an eye on changes in performance and movement. A supplement is not a treatment for pain, lameness or injury. Your vet can help investigate concerns and advise on appropriate support.

06 / The environment matters

Airway care goes beyond the feed room

Review ventilation, bedding and forage quality when thinking about respiratory wellbeing. Dust exposure in the stable can affect sensitive horses. Good management is the starting point for any care plan.

Respiratory supplements provide nutritional support; they do not replace an assessment of persistent coughing, altered breathing or exercise intolerance. Discuss these signs with your vet.

Further reading: British Horse Society respiratory health guidance.