If your horse suffers from digestive sensitivities or gastric ulcers, you will know the battle all too well. Fussy eating, unexplained weight loss, girthiness, and unpredictable behaviour.
As an owner, it’s stressful, emotional, and can be expensive too. Finding a suitable feeding routine is key, and the wrong choice can set you back.
The struggle - know you're not alone
Whether your horse is in light work or competing regularly, stress, travel, and old fashioned diets can wreak havoc on the digestive system.
Common pain points that you might recognise:
- Reluctance to eat or finish meals
- Weight loss despite adequate feed
- Crib-biting, wind-sucking, or general anxiety
- Girthiness or resistance to being tacked up and/or groomed
- Inconsistent behaviour or moodiness under saddle
These are not just quirks, they could likely be clear signs that your horse is uncomfortable.
Why does Blue Chip Ulsa-Cool stand out?
Ulsa-Cool helps protect the stomach lining from acid, to encourage a healthy functioning digestive system and to keep feed travelling slowly through the gut to aid nutrient absorption. Unlike many balancers Ulsa-Cool is specifically formulated to support horses prone to gastric discomfort. The combination of key ingredients are why it works:
- Triple action digestive supplement - A high concentration of prebiotic MOS, probiotics and nucleotides.
- AcidBal™ supplement - Derived from marine minerals to restore the natural pH balance of the gut, and enhance the buffering effect it has on stomach acid.
- Beta-glucans - To coat the stomach lining with a protective film, slowing the passage of feed and keeping the stomach fuller for longer which creates a less acidic environment.
BUT feeding a horse with ulcers is not just about what you feed, it’s also how:
Forage First, Always - A forage-first diet mimics the natural evolutionary grazing habits of horses. It promotes improved digestive health and metabolism, and contributes to their overall physical and mental well-being.
Feed little and often - Horses are trickle feeders so frequent, smaller meals keep acid from accumulating. A feed balancer is ideal for this (fed at as little as 100g/day for a 500kg horse). Many ulcer-prone horses thrive on a suitable amount of quality forage plus a feed balancer like Ulsa-Cool, providing nutrients without the gastric risk.
Feed before work (yes you read that right) - 30 minutes before work, offer hay or a double handful of chaff. The fibre creates a mat to help prevent stomach acid from splashing onto the upper, more delicate part of the stomach during exercise.
Feed a low starch option - Starch can increase acid production. Stick to a low starch and high fibre diet. Avoid unnecessary cereal-based feeds, unless your horse is in hard work.
Consistency is key - Changes in feed or routine can trigger anxiety, stress and potentially ulcers. Stick to consistent daily management as far as possible.
Peace of mind in a scoop - small but mighty!
Whether your horse is recovering from ulcers or you're simply looking for preventative care, Ulsa-Cool offers a stress-free feeding solution. It’s palatable, non-heating, and packed with everything your horse needs, and nothing they don’t.
Managing equine ulcers doesn’t have to feel like a guessing game. With the right feeding routine and expert nutritional support, you can help your horse feel better from the inside out. Ulsa-Cool gives you the confidence that every scoop supports a comfortable gut, improved behaviour, and consistent condition.
We are always here to help, call us, email or chat on social.
