Understanding the Core Composition of Equifeeds High Fibre
Equifeeds offers specialized feed products designed to support specific equine health needs. For their High Fibre feed, available in both meal and cube formats, the ingredient profile is tailored to provide a highly digestible, palatable source of fibre. The primary goal of this formulation is to support gut function, provide slow-release energy, and help manage conditions like laminitis, colic, and choking. The specific list of ingredients is a powerful indicator of its intended use and effectiveness.
Key High-Fibre Sources
At the heart of the Equifeeds High Fibre formula are quality fibre sources that promote healthy digestion. The specific components listed on product tags, like the one for the 13% High Fibre Cube, provide a clear picture.
- Lucerne (Alfalfa): This is a primary ingredient, highly valued for its quality protein and digestible fibre. Lucerne is a natural buffer for stomach acid, making it particularly beneficial for horses prone to ulcers. In the meal version, chaffed lucerne is specifically mentioned.
- Oaten Hay Chaff (Meal): The meal version of the high fibre feed includes oaten hay chaff, adding another source of quality roughage.
- Bran: A component found in both cube and meal versions, bran contributes to the overall fibre content.
- Sunflower Oil Cake: Listed as a key ingredient, sunflower oil cake is a nutritious component that provides additional energy and protein.
- Vegetable Oil: A source of fat, vegetable oil provides concentrated, cool energy and enhances coat condition.
Supporting Nutrients and Fortification
Beyond the fibre and energy bases, Equifeeds High Fibre is fortified with essential nutrients to create a complete, balanced feed.
- Soya (Soya Oil Cake & Full Fat Soya): These provide additional protein and energy, supplementing the overall nutritional profile.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The feed is fortified with a blend of essential vitamins and minerals to ensure a balanced diet. Specifics include lysine and methionine, important amino acids for muscle health.
- Limestone and MCP: These ingredients, specifically limestone and mono-calcium phosphate (MCP), are included to ensure proper calcium and phosphorus balance, which is vital for bone health.
- Salt: Included for essential sodium chloride balance.
Comparing Different Equifeeds Fibre Products
It's important to differentiate between the various high-fibre options offered by Equifeeds, as their ingredients and applications can vary significantly. The table below highlights the differences between the 13% High Fibre Cube and the Fibre Plus meal.
| Feature | Equifeeds 13% High Fibre Cube | Equi-Feeds Fibre Plus Meal |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Complete feed for full-grown horses. | Roughage supplement for full-grown horses, broodmares, yearlings, and stallions. |
| Fibre Sources | Lucerne, Bran, Soya Oil Cake, Full Fat Soya, Lupins. | Shandy Chaff, Lucerne Chaff, Oat Hay. |
| Energy | Balanced energy sources, including oil cake and vegetable oil. | Palatable low-protein meal that boosts digestible fibre intake. |
| Molasses Content | May contain molasses. | Contains molasses for palatability. |
| Key Benefit | Aids in preventing issues like laminitis and colic. | Economical blend to boost quality roughage intake. |
| Suitable For | Horses with low roughage access, post-op recovery. | Horses with reduced chewing capability, picky eaters. |
Feeding Considerations and Benefits
The detailed ingredient list of Equifeeds High Fibre reveals its benefits for different equine scenarios. For instance, the combination of highly digestible fibre sources like lucerne and bran, alongside balanced proteins from soya, makes it suitable for horses with sensitive digestive systems. The formulation is particularly useful in regions where quality roughage is scarce, providing a consistent nutritional base. Horses prone to conditions like laminitis, colic, and choke can benefit significantly from a feed with a high fibre and lower starch profile. The added vitamins and minerals ensure that even with reduced forage quality, the horse's core nutritional needs are met. This comprehensive approach to formulation provides a reliable and effective feed solution for many horse owners. When evaluating any horse feed, it's beneficial to compare the composition against the horse's specific needs, workload, and health status. Consulting with a veterinary professional or equine nutritionist can also help in determining the best feeding program for your horse. For more information on understanding horse feed labels, the American Quarter Horse Association provides a useful resource.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in Equifeeds high Fibre are a deliberate mix of high-quality lucerne, bran, soya, and other fibrous materials, complemented by a complete vitamin and mineral package. This specialized blend addresses the crucial need for digestible fibre, providing slow-release energy and supporting overall gut health. By understanding each component's role, horse owners can make informed decisions to support their equine companion's well-being, especially those with sensitive digestive tracts or specific health issues like laminitis or colic. The careful formulation ensures nutritional needs are met even when forage quality is low, highlighting the importance of this specialized feed.
