Nutrition FAQs
Answers to your common questions
Here, we have put together answers to your most frequently asked questions. Some of the most common include, laminitis, weight management, how to manage excitability, feeding senior horses and how to feed your new horse. Also find out the truth about sugar and protein. Please use our categories belowor if you’re after something specific use our search bar below.
FAQs
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Q:
Will a balancer help my horse to gain weight?
A:No. All balancers (except stud balancers) are formulated to provide a negligible level of energy (calories) when fed at the recommended ration. Although some balancers contain functional ingredients to support digestive health and a higher level of protein to support muscle and topline, a balancer will not provide the additional calories required by horses unable to maintain weight on forage alone.
Q:Which of the SPILLERS balancers are suitable for excitable horses/ ponies?
A:All of them! SPILLERS balancers contain a negligible level of starch and sugar when fed at the recommended ration.
Q:Which of the SPILLERS balancers are suitable for laminitics?
A:All of them! All SPILLERS balancers contain a negligible level of starch and sugar when fed at the recommended ration.
Q:What is the difference between a balancer and a broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement?
A:Unlike broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplements, balancers also provide additional protein and amino acids often lacking in UK forage. Depending on the manufacturer you may also be able to choose a balancer tailored towards your horse’s age and workload such as ‘Stud’ balancers for growing horses or ‘Performance’ balancers for competition or race horses. Some balancers also contain added functional ingredients such as live yeast and glucosamine.
