This is our FAQ section. This section will continue to grow as we get more questions.
As you scroll down the page you will see the FAQs divided into categories
Weight Management & Good Doers
My horse gains weight just looking at grass. What can I do?
Weight gain can occur even on seemingly limited grazing. Consider reducing access to rich pasture, using a grazing muzzle where appropriate, increasing exercise if possible, and reviewing the horse’s overall diet. Weight management supplements may also form part of a sensible management plan.
Is my horse overweight?
You should regularly body condition score your horse and monitor weight using a weigh tape. Fat deposits around the neck, shoulders, tailhead and behind the shoulders can indicate excess weight.
Can supplements help with weight management?
Supplements cannot replace good management, but some products are designed to support normal metabolic function and weight-management programmes when used alongside appropriate feeding and exercise.
What is the difference between a good doer and a horse with metabolic problems?
Many horses are naturally efficient at maintaining weight. However, some horses may have underlying metabolic challenges that require additional management and veterinary advice.
Laminitis Awareness
What are the early signs of laminitis?
Common signs include reluctance to move, shifting weight between feet, a shortened stride, increased digital pulses and sensitivity when turning.
Can a horse get laminitis even if it isn’t overweight?
Yes. While obesity is a significant risk factor, laminitis can also occur in horses with underlying metabolic conditions, stress, illness or dietary changes.
Should I stop feeding my horse if I suspect laminitis?
Any horse showing signs of laminitis should be assessed by a veterinary surgeon. Appropriate forage management is important, but advice should be tailored to the individual horse.
Can supplements cure laminitis?
No. Laminitis is a serious condition requiring veterinary attention. Supplements may be used as part of an overall management programme but are not a treatment or cure.
Cushing’s Disease (PPID)
What is PPID (Cushing’s disease)?
PPID is a common condition affecting older horses. It can influence metabolism, coat shedding, drinking habits, energy levels and susceptibility to laminitis.
What are the signs of PPID?
Signs may include a long or curly coat, delayed shedding, weight loss despite eating well, increased drinking and urination, lethargy and recurrent laminitis.
Does my horse need a blood test for PPID?
Diagnosis should be made by your veterinary surgeon, who may recommend appropriate testing if PPID is suspected.
Can supplements help horses with PPID?
Some supplements are formulated to provide nutritional support for horses requiring additional metabolic support, including those with PPID.
Joint & Mobility Support
My horse seems stiff when first exercised. Is this normal?
Some horses, particularly older horses, may appear stiff at the start of exercise. Regular movement, appropriate management and nutritional support may help maintain comfort and mobility.
At what age should I start using joint supplements?
Many owners introduce joint support before significant stiffness develops, particularly in performance horses, veterans or horses with demanding workloads.
Can younger horses benefit from joint supplements?
Some active horses may benefit from additional nutritional support to help maintain healthy movement and flexibility.
What ingredients are commonly found in mobility supplements?
Ingredients vary between products but may include glucosamine, MSM, omega oils, herbs and other nutrients traditionally used to support normal joint function.
Digestive Health
My horse is girthy when being saddled. Could it be digestive discomfort?
Several factors can contribute to girthiness, including management, training, saddle fit and digestive comfort. If the behaviour is new or worsening, veterinary advice should be sought.
Can horses get ulcers?
Yes. Gastric ulcers are relatively common, particularly in horses under stress, in work, or with restricted forage access. Diagnosis requires veterinary investigation.
How can I support my horse’s digestive health?
Providing adequate forage, reducing stress where possible, maintaining a consistent feeding routine and using suitable nutritional support may help maintain digestive wellbeing.
What are common signs of digestive discomfort?
Signs can include poor appetite, weight loss, behavioural changes, girthiness, reduced performance and changes in droppings.
Respiratory Health
My horse coughs at the start of exercise. Should I be concerned?
Occasional coughing can occur, but persistent coughing should be investigated by a veterinary surgeon.
How can I reduce dust exposure?
Consider soaking or steaming hay, improving stable ventilation and minimising dusty bedding where possible.
Can supplements support respiratory health?
Some products contain ingredients traditionally used to support normal respiratory comfort and wellbeing.
What are common signs of respiratory irritation?
Coughing, nasal discharge, increased breathing effort and reduced exercise tolerance can all indicate respiratory issues.
Behaviour & Calmness
Why has my horse suddenly become anxious?
Changes in behaviour can have many causes, including management changes, discomfort, environmental factors or health issues.
Can supplements calm a horse without making it sleepy?
Some supplements are designed to support calm and focused behaviour while allowing the horse to remain alert and responsive.
Are calmer supplements suitable for competition horses?
Many are, but owners should always check current competition regulations before use.
How long do calming supplements take to work?
This depends on the product and individual horse. Some are intended for daily use, while others may be used before specific events.
FreeStep & JCG Supplements
Why has JCG Supplements partnered with FreeStep?
We wanted to work with a company that develops products around the real health and management challenges faced by horse owners. FreeStep’s practical approach and straightforward formulations aligned closely with our own values.
Are FreeStep products suitable for all horses?
Individual products are designed for different situations, but the range includes options suitable for leisure horses, competition horses, veterans and good doers.
What if I buy a product and it doesn’t suit my horse?
FreeStep offers a no-quibble money-back guarantee on all products, giving owners confidence to try the range.
I’m not sure which product is right for my horse. Can I ask for advice?
Absolutely. You can contact JCG Supplements through the website, WhatsApp or our enquiry form and we’ll be happy to discuss your horse’s needs.