By: Dr Rosie Alcorn BVSc PG Cert VPS Cert AVP MRCVS
Feeding a racehorse to perform at its best is one of the most fundamental aspects of management. Their energy needs are high, they can be fussy eaters, and as a consequence, we often see elevated levels of gastric ulcers in our thoroughbred population.
The challenge arises in finding the balance between providing sufficient energy and maintaining digestive health. So, how can we achieve this?
Traditionally, racehorse feeds are high in grain and starch, which can lead to issues in the hindgut when not all starch is digested in the small intestine. This results in a disruption of the microbial population, which impacts the health and effectiveness of the microbiome, ultimately affecting the overall health of the horse.
Many traditional feeds are also high in molasses to increase palatability; however, this can lead to insulin spikes in horses, further complicating digestive health.
At Keyflow, we’ve developed a range of racing feeds that differ from traditional mixes. Discover more about the science behind our BlackType range of racing feeds below.
Steam-extruded Feeds
We steam-extrude our feeds, meaning they are partially cooked to increase digestibility in the small intestine. This allows the horse to absorb as much energy from the feed as quickly and safely as possible. By improving starch digestibility in the small intestine, we can feed higher-starch feeds with confidence, knowing that the starch is less likely to reach the hindgut and cause microbiome issues.
Alternative Energy Sources
We offer alternative energy sources to starch, such as cold-pressed rapeseed oil and linseed oil. These oils not only provide energy but also deliver omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, supporting multiple areas of health, including respiratory function, stride length, and reducing the risk of exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH).
High-Quality Protein for Muscle Repair
Our feeds are rich in high-quality, easily accessible protein to aid in muscle repair and growth, helping your horse stay in peak physical condition.
Lower Feeding Rates
Due to the highly digestible nature of our feeds, we can achieve optimal performance with lower feeding rates, reducing the volume of feed required while still providing all the necessary nutrients.
Discover: : BlackType Prime, Blacktype Power, BlackType Sensitive
Finally, our team of experienced staff and representatives are a valuable resource for owners and trainers, offering expert advice on feeding difficult, high-performance horses.
The Keyflow Range
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