KER ~ EquiShure

EquiShure® is a time-released buffer targeting the hindgut. Research supports the use of a hindgut buffer in cases of high grain and high fructan intake. Up to 70% of the horse’s energy is derived from fermentation in the hindgut. The pH of the hindgut varies as bacterial populations increase and decrease in response to dietary modifications. An acidic shift, which can be caused by carbohydrate-rich meals, favors the growth of acid-loving bacteria, while other microbes die in the same conditions.

Changes in the pH of the hindgut due to alterations in the microbial populations and acid profiles cause a condition known as subclinical acidosis, which can put affected horses at a higher than normal risk for colic and laminitis. Other signs of subclinical acidosis include decreased feed intake or complete inappetence in severe cases, mild to moderate colic signs of unexplained origin, poor feed efficiency and subsequent weight loss, loss of performance, and development of certain vices such as wood chewing, weaving, and stall walking.

EquiShure’s unique, patented encapsulation technology ensures targeted release directly in the hindgut.

EquiShure is recommended for horses:

• On high-grain diets or grazing lush pasture

• With inappetence or weight loss

• With unexplainable behavioral problems

• With digestive upsets resulting in loose manure

• Prone to recurrent mild colic or laminitis

• Sport horses under stress of training

Research trials at Kentucky Equine Research (KER) were designed to test the efficacy of EquiShure® on hindgut acidosis in horses fed a high-grain ration. Fecal examination indicated that nonsupplemented horses had decreased fecal pH after feeding when compared to horses supplemented with EquiShure hindgut buffer (Figure 1). In addition, EquiShure supplemented horses had significantly lower fecal lactate concentrations, suggesting that lactate was being used by lactic-acid-utilizing bacteria to produce VFA. The VFA are subsequently absorbed by the intestine and are metabolized as an energy source in the liver. These significant results suggest that EquiShure prevented the decrease in pH associated with rapid starch and sugar fermentation after a large grain meal, enabling lactate-utilizing bacteria to thrive and convert lactate into VFA.

Feeding Directions

Use table below to determine recommended daily amount based on horse’s grain intake, forage source, and weight. Top-dress EquiShure on daily grain ration. For best results divide recommended daily amount equally among grain meals. 1 scoop = 30 g.