Tying-Up in Horses: Nutrition to Support Healthy Muscles
Share
Tying-up, which vets call exertional rhabdomyolysis, is one of the most frustrating problems in performance horses. A horse that was working well suddenly becomes stiff, sweaty and reluctant to move. Understanding the triggers helps you build a program that keeps muscles working the way they should.
What tying-up looks like
- Stiff, short stride, especially behind
- Hard, painful muscles over the hindquarters and back
- Heavy sweating and an elevated heart rate
- Reluctance to move forward
- Dark urine in more serious cases
If you see these signs, stop work and call your veterinarian. Don't force the horse to keep moving.
Common triggers
- Days off followed by full work on the same feed
- High-starch diets
- Electrolyte and mineral imbalances
- Stress, excitement and nervous temperament
- Inadequate warm-up
Nutrition strategies owners use
Balance the gut. A healthy intestinal flora supports complete digestion. Tie-Up Formula provides probiotic strains of beneficial bacteria to support gut balance.
Manage lactic acid and recovery. DMG 3,000 helps clear lactic acid and support oxygen use in the muscle. Muscle Aid supplies branched-chain amino acids that support muscle repair.
Keep electrolytes balanced. Replace what is lost in sweat with a daily electrolyte such as Custom Electrolyte Formula.
Management matters as much as feed
- Reduce grain on days off and keep turnout as consistent as possible.
- Warm up slowly and build work gradually.
- Keep routines predictable for nervous horses.
- Work with your vet to identify the underlying cause, since some horses have a genetic muscle condition.
Shop the products in this article
Free shipping on every order of $50 or more. Shop all supplements →
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult your veterinarian before starting a new supplement program.