I have a Holsteiner/TB gelding that has sporadic tying up episodes that I have pretty much under control with a very low NSC diet. I assume it is RER as he is highly excitable which seems to coincide with his muscle cramping. Is there anything I can give him to help him relax? He tends to be very spooky. I have also balanced his minerals and he gets additional magnesium and B1.

Where are you from? Montana

How did you locate this forum? Ultimate Dressage Forum

Hi Beverly,

Thank you for writing. You are on the right track in your feeding regimen. I would recommend a few improvements...

First, the B vitamins work in concert, and while B1 is very important, it works with B2, Niacin, and Pantothenic Acid in providing energy to the tissues. So, a B Complex is a much more efficient approach. B Plex has all of the B vitamins in one supplement.

Magnesium is also very important and you are providing this. You didn't mention how much. I recommend 15,000 mg per day for a 1000 lb horse. Are you feeding Quiessence?

And, finally, adding a concentrated rice bran extract will add oil to his diet, which he needs more of in his condition, along with gamma oryzanol, to help calm him and allow his muscles to function more smootly without spasms. Take a look at Body Builder.

Make sure your hay is low in sugars and starches -- having it analyzed is always a good idea. If you don't have a local facility, I use Equi-Analytical for my analyses. Here is their website: www.equi-analytical.com

Salt is also essential -- at least 2 tablespoons of plain, white table salt each day, added to the diet (not the water).

Hope this is helpful!

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO