Pasture-Related Diarrhea in Horses – Causes, Prevention and Natural Support
As soon as horses return to pasture in spring, many owners look forward to the grazing season. However, for numerous horses this transition also marks the beginning of a sensitive phase: soft manure, fecal water or even persistent diarrhea during turnout are quite common.
This is not only unpleasant in daily stable management, but also an important sign that the digestive system may be struggling with the sudden dietary change.
What Happens When Switching from Hay to Fresh Grass?
The horse’s digestive system is highly specialized for fibre-rich, structured forage such as hay. Young pasture grass, however, differs significantly from hay – especially in spring. It contains considerably more sugar, protein and moisture, which changes the composition of the diet within a very short time.
High Fructan Content
Young grass contains significantly higher levels of fructans than hay. These sugar compounds may reach the hindgut undigested, where they are fermented by microorganisms. Possible consequences include gas production, shifts in pH levels and digestive disturbances.
The Gut Flora Becomes Unbalanced
The billions of microorganisms in the hindgut depend on stability. Sudden dietary changes can disrupt the delicate microbial balance and may lead to dysbiosis.
Possible consequences include:
- soft manure
- fecal water
- bloating
- digestive disturbances
- increased susceptibility to colic
High Moisture Content in Grass
Fresh pasture grass contains a very high water content. Horses with sensitive digestion often react with watery or loose manure.
Lack of Structured Fibre
Pasture grass contains less structured fibre than hay. As a result, chewing time decreases, which also reduces saliva production. Saliva plays an important role in stabilizing the digestive system and buffering the digestive tract.
How Can Pasture-Related Diarrhea Be Prevented?
1. Introduce Pasture Gradually
The transition to fresh grass should always be gradual. A slow introduction over at least two weeks is recommended.
In the beginning:
- 10–15 minutes of grazing per day are often sufficient
- increase pasture time slowly
- carefully control grass intake
Freshly cut grass can also be offered in controlled amounts to better regulate intake.
2. Ensure Adequate Fibre Intake
Hay should remain available throughout the grazing season. Structured fibre supports:
- gut function
- chewing activity
- saliva production
- digestive stability
3. Support the Gut Flora Proactively
Instead of waiting until diarrhea develops, preventive support of the microbiome is often the most effective approach.
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The NATÜRLICH PFERD Pasture Gut Support Set
To help horses adapt gently to fresh pasture grass, the Pasture Gut Support Set was specifically developed to support sensitive digestion during grazing season.
- Bio Adstringum:
This natural herbal blend contains:
- oak bark
- blackberry leaves
- blueberry leaves
These herbs are rich in natural tannins and have traditionally been used to support normal intestinal function and healthy manure consistency.
- Bio Natur Pur Prebiotisches Mash:
A gentle, digestive-friendly mash based on:
- organic linseed
- organic psyllium husks
The mucilage supports the normal function of the gastrointestinal lining and helps during feed transitions – naturally free from grains and synthetic additives.
- SOLO B-Power: B vitamins play an important role in energy metabolism and are partly produced by a healthy hindgut flora. During periods of digestive imbalance, additional support may be beneficial.
- Organic Hemp Oil: Organic hemp oil provides valuable omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and complements the daily ration with high-quality plant oils. Many horse owners use it during periods of digestive sensitivity or dietary transition.
Conclusion: A Healthy Start to Grazing Season
Pasture-related diarrhea and fecal water are among the most common digestive issues during turnout season. The sudden switch from fibre-rich hay to young, sugar- and protein-rich grass represents a considerable challenge for many horses.
A slow transition to fresh grass, sufficient structured fibre and targeted support of the gut flora can significantly help maintain digestive stability and prevent problems early on.
Because stable digestion is far more than just “normal manure” – it forms the foundation for wellbeing, nutrient utilization and long-term health, especially during the demanding transition period in spring.
