Many factors can affect your horse’s behavior, and recent studies suggest that there may be a link between diet, gut health, and disposition.
Genetics, training, life experiences, health—any horse parent or trainer knows how much these factors can influence a horse’s behavior. Even diet can have an impact because deficiencies can lead to changes in energy levels and mood that can affect temperament. Beyond that, the equine diet may have an even more significant impact on behavior than previously thought because of the connection between the gut and the brain. Let’s examine how diet and gut health may influence a horse’s disposition and potentially their performance.
Nutrition Impacts Gut Health in Horses, and Deficiencies May Cause Behavioral Changes
They say you are what you eat, and the same is true of horses. A healthy diet contributes to healthy gut microbiota, the community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract and have many functions, including:
- Digestion
- Nutrient absorption
- Immune system modulation
- Metabolism
- Protecting against pathogens
- Synthesizing vitamins
Because of the link between diet and the gut, a balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being while deficiencies can affect a horse’s overall energy levels, mood, and behavior. For example, vitamin or mineral deficiencies can lead to lethargy, irritability, or other changes in attitude.
The Deeper Link Between the Gut, the Brain, and Stress
Beyond nutritional deficiencies, when it comes to diet and behavior, you also have to consider the gut-brain axis, the complex, bidirectional communication network linking the gut and the brain.
Changes in gut function or microbial activity can influence signals sent to the brain, potentially affecting mood and behavior. In fact, imbalances in the gut microbiota, known as dysbiosis, have been linked to mood disorders and changes in behavior in some species, and the same could apply to horses because the gut is also linked to the stress response system through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. While research into this is relatively new, one study suggested that diet and changes in gut microbiota can influence a horse’s reaction to stress, specifically their startle response.
Why Performance and Gut Health May Also Be Linked
Gut health can influence a horse’s overall physical comfort. Digestive issues such as colic, gastric ulcers, or hindgut disturbances can cause discomfort and pain. This may manifest as changes in attitude, irritability, reluctance to work, resistance, and other performance-related issues. On the other hand, a healthy gut can help contribute to healthy energy levels, a positive mental state, and improved behavior and performance.
Support Gut Health with Equine GI Support
Equine GI Support from Standard Process is a supplement for horses that provides whole foods and nutrients and supports antioxidant signaling pathways in the equine gastrointestinal tract. It can be given to horses in training, that are traveling, that have limited turnout or access to pasture, or are going through a change in routine. By helping ensure adequate nutrition, Equine GI Support may help to support gut health and help horses maintain a cooperative working attitude and pleasant disposition.
Visit Standard Process to learn more!
AUTHOR PROFILE
Equine Wellness Magazine is North America’s most trusted natural health and lifestyle magazine for horses, and the premiere publication educating a growing audience in natural and integrative approaches to health and horsemanship. EW transcends all areas of the equine market and appeals to everyone from backyard enthusiasts to serious competitors.
