Many horse owners are familiar with this: sometimes feeding goes smoothly, then again sensitive horses react with restlessness in their stomach, changing stool consistency or picky eating behavior.
Zeolite – more accurately, natural clinoptilolite zeolite – is therefore frequently used to support the digestive tract and bind unwanted substances in the intestines. However, for zeolite to reach its full potential, the correct dosage and application are crucial.
In this guide, we'll show you , in a practical and easy-to-understand way , how to safely use zeolite for your horse: from dosage based on weight and gradual introduction to everyday tips for powders and pellets – including tricks for picky eaters. We'll only briefly touch on diarrhea here; you can find detailed information in our guides: Treating Diarrhea in Horses Naturally – Causes and Home Remedies and Using Zeolite for Diarrhea: Effectiveness and Current Research .
Our goal: After reading this, you'll know exactly how much zeolite your horse needs, how to feed it , and what to pay attention to in everyday life – so that feeding becomes relaxed and routine again.
Dosage of zeolite in horses
The correct amount is crucial for zeolite to reach its full potential. It's important to consider not only the horse's body weight but also its individual sensitivity. Therefore, we recommend introducing zeolite slowly and gradually increasing the amount.
| Weight of the horse | Starting amount (week 1) | recommended daily amount |
|---|---|---|
| Pony up to 250 kg | 5 g | 10–20 g |
| Small horse 250–400 kg | 10 g | 20–30 g |
| Large horse 400–600 kg | 15 g | 30–40 g |
| Coldblood over 600 kg | 20 g | 40–50 g |
1 level measuring spoon = approx. 10g
The included large plastic measuring spoon holds 10g of zeolite when level. It has a line in the middle indicating half the spoonful, making it easy to measure out 5g.
If a plastic measuring spoon is not available, please use a conventional wooden or plastic spoon. Or contact us so we can send you one.
Horse's weight: Our guidelines for the dosage of HORSEKRAFT Zeolite
If your horse weighs 400kg , then add at least 25g of zeolite (2.5 scoops) per day to its feed.
600kg : 35g = 3.5 measuring spoons per day
800kg : 45g = 4.5 measuring spoons per day
HORSEKRAFT Zeolite has an average particle size of 24 microns (micrometers). We determined this particle size in collaboration with zeolite experts specializing in equine products. STEINKRAFT Zeolite is tribomechanically pulverized . This means that, in addition to its purity, the powder has a very high surface area and activation. Therefore, it is twice as effective and very economical.
In other words: your horse needs to ingest less zeolite with its feed, and you can also feel good because the higher effectiveness makes it more sustainable, as less raw material is needed.
IMPORTANT: Provide your horse with plenty of drinking water .
And if your horse is receiving medication, it's best to leave a 2-hour gap between feeding zeolite and administering the medication.
For a course of treatment , increase the dose, but do not exceed 100g/day or 1% of the total feed amount. This is a legal regulation (Austrian Feedstuffs Authority) and must be stated on the label. Please do not be confused by this.
Powder or pellets?
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Powder is suitable if it is mixed directly into the feed and the horses have no problems with the consistency.
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Pellets are practical to use, are sometimes easier to ingest, and produce less or no dust.
👉 Here you can watch a VIDEO where we show you the differences.
Practical application
Zeolite is easy to feed – if you keep a few things in mind. The most important rule: feed it regularly and patiently . This way, your horse gets used to the new ingredient in its feed and can experience its full benefits.
How to mix zeolite into feed
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In mash : Mixing it into the mash is particularly popular, as the slightly mushy consistency allows the powder or pellets to be optimally absorbed.
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With carrots or apple juice : A few grated carrots or a splash of apple juice help to "package" zeolite in terms of taste.
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Soaked concentrated feed : If the feed is slightly moistened, zeolite adheres better and is reliably absorbed.
Tips for picky horses
Some horses are sensitive to changes in their feed. Here's how to make it work anyway:
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Start with very small amounts (e.g. 5g) and increase slowly.
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Use pellets if your horse doesn't like the powder – they don't taste any different, but sometimes horses automatically recognize pellets as food and accept them more easily.
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To increase acceptance, divide the daily amount into two meals .
- Here you can read additional ideas from our customers in a special blog article:
👉 What to do if your horse won't eat the zeolite powder?
When is the right time?
Zeolite can be used flexibly, ideally:
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In the morning, concentrated feed for a good start to the day,
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or in the evening in the mash, so that it can work overnight.
Important: There should be a 2-hour interval between administering medication or mineral feed and zeolite, as zeolite can otherwise impair absorption.
Practical experience
Many horse owners report that the correct dosage and patient application are crucial. Especially if a horse is initially skeptical of new feed, it pays to start slowly and gradually introduce small amounts.
"My gelding initially refused the powder. I then added just a pinch to his mash and increased the amount a little each week. After two weeks he ate it without any problems – now he gets the full dose and eats it happily."
Another issue is the appropriate form of administration. Some horses readily accept powder, while others prefer pellet form.
"Our mare won't eat powder. For whatever reason. But she eats the pellets without any problems – since then, the daily feeding has been much easier and less stressful."
Dosage based on body weight has also proven effective in practice:
"I started with my draft horse according to your table and slowly increased it to 40g. After just a few weeks, his digestion was more stable, and he seems more balanced overall."
These experiences show that zeolite works best when dosage and application are individually tailored to the horse . Small steps, patience, and the correct form are the keys to success.
👉 Our TIP: Always start with half the dosage and gradually increase to the full amount within 7–10 days. This allows your horse's digestive tract to adapt optimally.
Frequently asked questions about the dosage and use of zeolite in horses:
❓Can zeolite be fed continuously?
Yes, zeolite is suitable for both short-term use and continuous feeding. Many horse owners use it over extended periods because it is very well tolerated.
❓How long does it take to notice an effect?
This varies from horse to horse. Some horses show a more stable digestive system after just a few days, while others take 2-3 weeks before changes become visible. Patience is key: the body needs time to adjust.
❓Can I give zeolite at the same time as medication or mineral feed?
Zeolite has a strong binding capacity. Therefore, you should leave at least 2-3 hours between administering medication or mineral supplements and zeolite. This will ensure that the absorption of the active ingredients is not impaired.
❓What is the best way to store zeolite?
Zeolite has a very long shelf life as long as it is stored in a dry, cool, and sealed container . Ideally, you should keep it in its original container or a bucket with a lid.
Further practical experience
💬 “I was unsure whether to start with the full amount right away. Luckily, I started small – 10g for my 500kg horse – and increased it every week. This allowed him to get used to it, and after a month we're at 35g. It worked perfectly.”
💬 “My mare is extremely picky. Powder would just sit in the trough, no matter what I mixed it with. With pellets, it worked immediately – now she really looks forward to her feed. The choice of form was crucial for us.”
💬 "I've been feeding zeolite daily for 6 months now. Initially planned as a course of treatment, but since it was so well received, I've continued. My gelding gets 25g in his concentrated feed in the morning, and it just works."
💬 “We have two horses – a large horse and a pony. Thanks to the dosage chart, it was easy to determine the correct amount for both. I weigh and use the measuring spoons, so it's uncomplicated in everyday life.”
💬 “At first, I made the mistake of giving him too much at once. My horse refused the feed. With the tip to gradually increase the amount, it now works wonderfully – and he eats it without any problems.”
💬 “My gelding had digestive problems after receiving medication. I fed him zeolite 3 hours apart – as recommended. This is easy to integrate into the daily routine and works reliably.”
Science & Background
Zeolite has been researched in animal nutrition for many years. The natural clinoptilolite rock is characterized by a special crystal structure that can bind pollutants like a sponge. This neutralizes unwanted substances in the digestive tract and allows them to be excreted.
Several studies have shown that zeolite:
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It binds ammonium and toxins – which can contribute to a more stable intestinal environment.
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Improved stool consistency – horses with fluctuating stool consistency or a tendency towards diarrhea often showed more stable digestion.
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It supports the intestinal environment by regulating the pH values in the digestive tract in a more favorable way.
Particularly important for practical purposes: Zeolite is generally very well tolerated and can be fed over extended periods. However, correct dosage and application are essential to ensure optimal binding capacity.
Those who wish to delve deeper into the topic will find a comprehensive overview with sources and details in our articles:
👉 Zeolite for horses - everything you need to know: Q&A and guide
Conclusion
Every horse is unique – just like every member of the family has its own needs. Some eat everything without hesitation, others are picky, and every animal reacts differently to feed supplements. Therefore, there isn't one "right" way to use them all. It's important to listen to your instincts and adjust the dosage to suit your horse.
Zeolite can be a valuable support: gentle, natural, and versatile. Whether in powder or pellet form, it can be easily integrated into daily life and adapted to your horse's individual preferences. Patience, attentiveness, and the joy of ensuring your horse receives what it needs are crucial.
At Steinkraft, we care about every horse. That's why we ensure our zeolite products are pure, high-quality, and easy to use – so you can be confident your horse is receiving the best possible care.
👉 Discover our selection of zeolite products for horses and find the option that best suits your four-legged partner.
👉 Here you'll find the product of the month and a good overview of all STEINKRAFT product lines.
👉 Here you can find all STEINKRAFT products at a glance - directly in the shop
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2 comments
Ich habe mit Einschleichen – halbe Menge – begonnen, dann 6 Wochen eine Kur mit doppelter Menge und jetzt bekommen sie es täglich dazu. Alle meine 3 fressen es anstandslos mit. Bin sehr sehr zufrieden auch dank eurer Anleitungen und Praxis-Tipps.
Dieser ausführliche und verständliche Beitrag hat mir sehr geholfen zu verstehen warum es für meine Stute das Richtige ist und wie ich es korrekt füttere.
Sollte für alle zur „Pflichtlektüre“ werden.