Digestive Supplements: An Overview

Horses have two main sections in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract:

Foregut: includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.

Hindgut: includes the cecum, large colon, small colon, and rectum.

Each section of the equine digestive system serves a purpose in your horse's overall health and is subject to a variety of health concerns. At SmartEquine, we know how important it is to address GI health. Let's take a look at how we can help support your horse!

Who Needs a Digestive Supplement?

Many horses may benefit from either a gastric (stomach) support supplement or a hindgut (digestive) support supplement. What's the difference? Gastric health supplements may help support normal stomach health for horses under stress, such as those who've had a recent change in routine, are traveling, or in competition. While on the other hand, digestive health supplements may lend support for normal hindgut function for horses that are stressed, have dietary changes, or have increased difficulty breaking down forage or grain.

Main Ingredients in Equine Gastric Supplements

Supplements designed to support gastric health often include a combination of the following key ingredients:

Licorice Root: (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is an herb used for people and animals in both Western and Chinese medicine. It may help restore normal stomach tissue health.

L-Glutamine: Though not an essential amino acid, L-glutamine is involved in repairing intestinal tissue, building muscle, and supporting normal immune system function.

Soluble Fiber: May assist with digestive concerns.

Plant Adaptogens: Sea buckthorn, aloe vera, pectin, and lecithin may help horses better manage ulcer-causing stress.

Main Ingredients in Equine Digestive Supplements

Supplements designed to support digestive health often include a combination of the following key ingredients:

Probiotics: Live microorganisms that break down food ingredients and help produce energy and vitamins for the body.

Prebiotics: Non-digestible, soluble fiber which serves as food for the good bugs (probiotics).

Yeast: May support the digestion of fiber and normal hindgut function.

Next Steps

Finding the right digestive support for your horse doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're just beginning your digestive health journey or fine-tuning your horse's routine, you'll find great options at Valley Vet Supply. And remember, your veterinarian, farrier, and horse health care team are always valuable partners in making the best choice for your horse.

Key Takeaways

Many horses may benefit from a GI supplement.

L-glutamine, soluble fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics are just a few ingredients to look for when searching for an equine digestive supplement.

Connect with your veterinarian and us to help determine the route you should take with your horse.

© 2025 by SmartPak Equine LLC. Used by permission. All Rights reserved. No copying without consent. These products are not intended to mitigate, treat, or cure any disease or condition. Always consult your veterinarian if you have any questions about your horse's health.

Whether for horse, livestock or pet, Valley Vet Supply is your one-stop shop for trusted care. Explore more of our digestive supplements category at ValleyVet.com.