RESHAPE – SUPPORTING SENIOR AND HARD-TO-KEEP HORSES THROUGH NUTRITION

As horses age, their needs change, which must be taken into account, especially in feed management. Even horses that are difficult to feed and horses that are still growing need a targeted adjustment to their diet in order to maintain health and promote performance. 

The aging process in horses is individual and begins between 15 and 20 years of age. In older horses, the basal metabolic rate decreases, which reduces energy requirements. Nevertheless, many horses lose body mass in old age, especially if they were already difficult feeders before. At the same time, the horse's ability to utilize nutrients effectively becomes increasingly limited. This reduced nutrient utilization requires a well-thought-out feed composition to prevent deficiency symptoms.

Older horses have an increased protein requirement of 10-20%. This should be high-quality protein that is digestible in the small intestine. In this context, it is particularly important to ensure an adequate supply of essential amino acids. Horses cannot produce these amino acids themselves and are therefore dependent on their intake through food. Essential amino acids are involved in numerous metabolic processes, particularly in building and maintaining muscle mass. This is particularly important for older horses and horses that are still growing, as muscle mass tends to decrease with age and targeted muscle support is necessary. 

In addition, the immune system of older horses is more susceptible. Therefore, senior horses have an increased need for certain trace elements such as zinc and copper. Zinc plays a central role in hair and skin metabolism and is also an important factor in the functioning of the immune system. In addition, antioxidants are very important for cell protection in older horses. Trace elements can be better utilized by seniors in organically bound form (as chelates). 

Another problem in older horses is declining dental health. Worn or missing teeth make it more difficult to chew roughage. This significantly impairs digestion and nutrient absorption, as poorly chewed feed cannot be broken down as efficiently in the digestive tract. Nevertheless, an adequate supply of roughage remains essential, as it forms the basis of a horse's diet and promotes healthy digestion. Feed that can be soaked can be a suitable solution here.

Derbymed Reshape is a useful supplement to daily feed to meet the special needs of older horses and support horses that are difficult to feed. Especially in winter, when no proteins are available from fresh pasture grass, ReShape can be used to supplement essential amino acids in the ration. The dried grape extract it contains is a powerful antioxidant and also supports the immune system. The product made from Aspergillus oryzae can promote digestibility, which has already been confirmed in practical trials. Improved digestibility also promotes feed intake and provides more short-chain fatty acids in the large intestine as a source of energy. A small feed amount of 45-60g per 600kg body weight is sufficient to provide the horse with optimal nutrition without burdening it. The product can be soaked if necessary.

In summary, an adapted diet is crucial for maintaining the long-term health and well-being of older horses and horses in training. The right combination of nutrients, trace elements, and easily digestible feed components can optimally meet the special needs of these horses.