The Equine Hindgut Microbiome
Horses are hindgut fermenters, relying on a vast microbial population in the cecum and large colon to digest fiber and produce volatile fatty acids (the primary energy source). This microbiome is highly specialized to the current diet. When feed changes abruptly, the existing microbes cannot process the new substrate efficiently, leading to gas production, pH drops, and potential mucosal damage. The 7–14 day transition period allows microbial populations to shift gradually, maintaining digestive stability.