Reason 1: Each feed has a different composition

We are not talking about the amount of energy/sugars/starch/proteins in the feed. But about the composition of vitamins and minerals. Each feed manufacturer has their own vision on which ratios of vitamins and minerals are best for the horse. One brand, for example, may contain more iron than another brand. This applies to all vitamins and minerals. But could it be possible that your horse is getting a deficiency or excess of a certain mineral/vitamin? To keep that balanced, it is recommended to switch feeds regularly. This can help prevent deficiencies or excesses of certain nutrients.

Reason 2: The absorbability of minerals is different

Minerals come in organic and inorganic forms, here are the differences:

• Organic: not recognized by the body as a mineral because they are often bound to an amino acid (protein)/fat or sugar. The body then sees it as a different nutrient instead of a mineral. This results in a very good absorption, but there is a risk of absorbing too many minerals, leading to poisoning and overloading of the liver and kidneys. For example, Magnesium Citrate.

• Inorganic: these minerals are bound to a salt or oxide, and are therefore recognized by the body as a true mineral. This results in lower absorbability, but the body determines if it needs this mineral. This prevents the body from being overloaded. For example, Magnesium Oxide.

Getting organic minerals is definitely not bad, especially if you continue to monitor the overall ration and know what you are feeding. But it can be wise to switch feeds occasionally so that a different form of minerals is introduced. Variety is key!

Reason 3: your horse's feed requirements change

The horse has different needs throughout the year. During shedding periods, there is an increased need for minerals. In the summer, they need more fresh grass, and in the winter they have a greater need for fibers.

In nature, herbs are also not available throughout the entire year, each herb has its own blooming period and the horse in the wild takes advantage of that.

Many feeds are supplemented with herbs, but it is recommended not to give herbs continuously for longer than 6-8 weeks as they can have negative effects. So why continuously feed the same feed with the same herbs in it? There are also feed manufacturers (such as EquiFyt) that have a different herb composition for each season!

So pay attention to your horse's mineral needs during shedding season! During this period, you can slightly increase a balancer or give extra minerals from the Bering Sea.

Important points to consider when changing feeds:

• A balancer can often be switched without any issues, as you only give a small amount of it. For a sensitive horse, it is advisable to make the switch gradually.

• If you give more than 1kg of concentrate, switch feeds slowly. Decrease the old feed and increase the new feed gradually.