As a devoted horse owner, you know that good health starts from the inside out. You take so much care in choosing the right feed to nourish them, you see the results of a quality diet in their coat, overall condition, and wellbeing. You can elevate that care and support your horse’s overall health with probiotics.
Probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms that support a healthy balance of gut bacteria and promote digestive and immune health.
Why probiotics matter for your horse’s health
Whether your horse is dealing with stress, a change in feed, travel, or just the everyday demands of training, adding the right probiotic strains can make a real difference to your horse’s health.
Here are five specific probiotic strains proven to support equine gut health:
1. Bacillus subtilis
This spore-based strain is known for its ability to survive harsh stomach conditions and reach the gut where it’s needed. Bacillus subtilis can help break down feed, supports nutrient absorption, and naturally discourages harmful bacteria. It’s an excellent choice for horses prone to digestive upset or irregularities.
2. Enterococcus faecium
Your horse’s gut balance can be disrupted by stress, antibiotics, or dietary changes. Enterococcus faecium can help restore it by encouraging the growth of good bacteria and supports healthy digestion.
3. Lactobacillus acidophilus
Probably the most recognised strain in human supplements, Lactobacillus acidophilus is equally valuable for horses. It is especially helpful for horses with sensitive stomachs as it supports the breakdown of feed in the small intestine and helps create an environment where harmful bacteria can’t thrive.
4. Bifidobacterium longum
Known for its soothing effects on the digestive system, Bifidobacterium longum helps reduce gut inflammation and supports immune health. It’s ideal for horses recovering from stress, illness, or digestive challenges.
5. Bifidobacterium thermophilum
This important strain plays a key role in breaking down fibre in the hindgut – this can be very beneficial for horses that eat mostly forage.
All horses can benefit from probiotics
By giving your horse a probiotic, you’re not just nurturing their gut, you’re supporting stronger immunity, better nutrient uptake, and a happier, more comfortable horse.
When choosing a probiotic supplement for your horse, look for one that includes a variety of strains with strength in the billions (rather than millions). It is also important to choose a probiotic that has micro-encapsulated or spore-based strains to survive the harsh environment of the foregut and hindgut to ensure that the entire digestive tract is seeing the benefits.
Remember to consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, especially if your horse has existing health conditions.
Your horse depends on you for care—probiotics are one more way to give them your best. Check out 1Equine’s Healthy Horse Probiotic
