Rest & Detox for Horses

Detox is a popular term with humans and now also for horses.

A fresh start for the body can be a big help. But what exactly does ‘detoxing’ entail? Is it literally just detoxification? Or is there a lot more to it? The answer is yes, there is indeed a lot more to it. After all, rest is just as important. In this article, learn why rest is the main ingredient, and the 3 pillars of a good detox period.  

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Detoxing means getting rid of waste/toxins from the body. Detoxing/cleansing the liver and kidneys is a way to support your horse’s natural detoxification and waste elimination processes. A detox regimen purifies the organs that are behind this whole process and stimulates their function. Combining this with a mainly high-fibre feed will support healthy gut flora´ and make the detox period even more beneficial. You’re giving the horse everything that is good for him. So detox for horses is definitely a sensible course of action!

Tension must be accompanied by relaxation
Before we delve deeper into detox, let’s first discuss the importance of rest (periods). A horse (any athlete, really) needs rest to recover from work, both physically and mentally. Which is logical – living under constant tension is unhealthy. Your horse’s training regimen should always include rest. The body needs rest to be able to release tension, and this is key in any sport and at any level. It’s important to know that physiological recovery takes at least three days. Horses are athletes, and to keep fit and healthy through life, there needs to be a balance between tension and relaxation.  

When should you detox?
Rest is therefore a basic part of any training plan. Just as important is stopping work completely once in a while. An occasional longer break gives your horse the chance to get back to full strength for top performance later. Want to enhance the impact of this rest period? Then consider a detox treatment. Not sure when the right time would be for one? We recommend detoxes at the following times:

• At the change of seasons
• After intense competition periods
• When switching to a new feed
• If your horse has a dull coat or moulting issues
• After a period of illness or infection
• After a course of antibiotics

​At such times, your horse has a lot to process (physiologically speaking) and his body produces a lot of waste products. During a detox, you lend a hand to the breakdown process by giving support to the liver and kidneys. A detox regimen purifies the organs that are behind this whole process and stimulates their function. It helps your horse eliminate waste products. An effective detox period lasts at least 6 weeks.
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Did you know that the Orange Horse Team can supply your Cavalor products?  To order yours, speak to Tricia or Helen for specialist advice and delivery.

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