Introducing new supplements to your horse's diet can be a delicate process—especially if your horse is a fussy eater or has a sensitive palate. Here are some practical tips to make the transition smoother and stress-free:

1. Start Low, Go Slow

Begin with just a pinch of the new supplement and gradually build up to the full dose over a period of weeks—or even a couple of months. Taking your time helps your horse get used to both the smell and taste without overwhelming them.

2. Use a Shallow Feed Bin

Believe it or not, it’s often the smell of a new supplement that turns a horse off, not the taste. A shallow feed bin allows more airflow around the nose and prevents smells from becoming concentrated, making it more inviting.

3. Stick with Familiar Carrier Feeds

Don’t change too many things at once. Always introduce the supplement into a well-accepted, familiar carrier feed. Avoid switching both the feed and supplement at the same time, as that can overwhelm the horse.

4. Damp It Down

Dampen the carrier feed to minimise dust and stop the supplement from sinking to the bottom of the bin. This helps ensure even distribution and improves palatability.

5. Dilute the Smell and Taste

During the transition period, increase the volume of the carrier feed slightly to help dilute any strong smells or flavors from the new supplement. Once your horse accepts it, you can reduce the volume back down.

6. Use Taste Tempters (If Needed)

If your horse is still hesitant, consider adding a "taste tempter" to mask the new smell and encourage acceptance. Options that often work well include:

• Apple cider vinegar – a strong-smelling option that can mask new scents. Always check that your horse is happy with it first.
• Copra meal – naturally sweet-smelling and palatable.
• Stevia powder – a natural sweetener safe for metabolic horses that won’t spike insulin levels. Available at most supermarkets.

With a bit of patience and the right approach, even the fussiest eaters can learn to accept new supplements with ease.