As a horse owner, ensuring your equine companion's health and wellbeing is a top priority. One of the most crucial aspects of horse care is understanding their dietary needs. One component of horse nutrition that often goes overlooked is fructans. In this post, we will discuss what fructans are, why they can be harmful to horses, and how you can protect your horse from potential fructan-related health issues.

What Are Fructans?

Fructans are a type of carbohydrate made up of chains of fructose molecules. They are found in various grasses and plants, particularly in cool-season grasses. While fructans can be a valuable energy source for many animals, horses can be sensitive to high levels.

Why Are Fructans a Concern for Horses?

When horses consume too much fructan, it can lead to several health complications, particularly settings in which fructan levels spike, such as during spring growth or after a frost. The primary concerns include:

• Colic: Horses consuming high levels of fructans may experience gastrointestinal disturbances, leading to colic.
• Laminitis: Excess fructans can contribute to the development of laminitis, a painful and potentially debilitating condition affecting the hooves.
• Metabolic Disorders: Horses with metabolic issues, such as insulin resistance, are particularly at risk when consuming fructans.

How to Protect Your Horse from Fructans

Understanding how to manage your horse’s exposure to fructans is crucial for their health. Here are some strategies to help you protect your horse:

1. Monitor Pasture Conditions

Be aware of the time of year and weather conditions affecting your pasture. Fructan levels tend to be higher during:

• The spring when grasses are lush and growing.
• The fall related to frost damage to existing grasses.

2. Limit Grazing Time

During high-risk periods, consider limiting your horse’s grazing time, especially during the late morning and early afternoon when fructan levels are at their peak. Instead of allowing free access to pasture, restrict grazing to shorter bouts or provide mixture hay that is lower in fructans.

3. Choose Low-Fructan Forages

Selecting hay and forage that are naturally low in fructans can also help. These may include:

• Timothy hay
• Meadow hay
• Tested hay that shows low fructan content

4. Consult a Veterinarian or Nutritional Expert

If your horse is prone to health issues, working with a vet or an equine nutritionist can help you develop a diet plan that minimizes fructan intake while still meeting your horse's nutritional needs.

Conclusion

Being aware of fructans and their potential effects on your horse's health is essential for responsible horse care. By monitoring forage conditions, limiting grazing, selecting appropriate forages, and seeking expert advice, you can help protect your horse from the negative impacts of fructans. Stay informed and proactive to ensure your horse has a long, healthy, and happy life!