Sharp, sensitive or “fizzy” horses can be incredibly talented and responsive — but without the right nutritional support, they can become tense, reactive and difficult to manage.

When behaviour becomes a concern, feed is often the first thing owners question. However, understanding where energy comes from — and how it is used by the horse — is key to making informed decisions.

Does Protein Make Horses Fizzy?

One of the biggest myths in equine nutrition is that protein causes excitability. In reality, protein is not responsible for sharp behaviour.

Protein plays a completely different role in the body. It provides the essential building blocks for:

• Muscle development
• Tissue repair
• Growth
• Immune function
• Hoof and hair quality

While protein can technically be used as an energy source, the horse only turns to it as a last resort. In extreme cases — such as starvation — the body will break down its own muscle tissue to supply energy. Under normal feeding conditions, protein is not a primary fuel source.

The confusion arises because many traditional high-protein feeds are also high in cereals — and therefore high in starch. It is the starch component, not the protein, that may contribute to increased excitability.

Reducing protein intake in an attempt to calm a horse can actually do more harm than good, potentially leading to poor muscle tone, compromised immunity and reduced coat and hoof quality.

Where Does a Horse’s Energy Come From?

A horse’s diet provides energy from three main sources:

1. Starch and sugar
2. Fibre
3. Oil

Each is digested differently and affects the horse in different ways.

Fast-Release Energy: Starch & Sugar

Starch and sugars are broken down rapidly in the small intestine and absorbed as glucose into the bloodstream. This produces a quick surge of energy — often referred to as “fast-release” fuel.

For laid-back or sluggish horses, this type of energy can be helpful. But for sharp or reactive individuals, large amounts may contribute to over-exuberant behaviour, tension or lack of focus.

Slow-Release Energy: Fibre

Fibre is fermented gradually in the hindgut, producing volatile fatty acids that supply a steady stream of energy over time. This process supports digestive health and helps maintain more consistent energy levels throughout the day.

Because fibre is digested slowly, it does not create the peaks and troughs associated with high-starch feeding.

Non-Heating Calories: Oil

Oil is an excellent alternative energy source. It provides concentrated calories without the rapid glucose spike linked to cereals. For horses that require condition but cannot tolerate high starch levels, oil-based diets are particularly beneficial.

Feeding for Calm Energy and Condition

Sharp horses often still require a good level of calories — particularly if they are in regular work or struggle to maintain weight. The goal is not to restrict energy, but to change its source.

A suitable feeding programme should:

• Be low in starch and sugar
• Provide energy from digestible fibre and oil
• Contain adequate quality protein for muscle and repair
• Support hindgut function
• Be fully balanced in essential vitamins and minerals

Digestive comfort also plays a significant role in behaviour. Supporting the hindgut with highly digestible fibres and proven yeast cultures can improve fibre fermentation and mineral absorption, promoting overall wellbeing and helping horses feel more settled.

A Practical Non-Heating Feeding Approach

For horses that require a specialist diet, Rowen Barbary Solution Mash has been carefully formulated to provide energy without unnecessary starch.

Free from cereals and molasses, it offers a very low starch and sugar option suitable for sharp horses, as well as those prone to laminitis or Cushing’s syndrome.

Its calorie content comes from elevated oil levels and highly digestible fibre sources, delivering steady, controlled energy release. This makes it ideal for conditioning and weight gain without contributing to excitable behaviour.

The formulation also includes a live yeast culture to support efficient fibre digestion and mineral utilisation within the hindgut. Added herbs such as garlic, spearmint and fenugreek enhance palatability and contribute to overall vitality.

Importantly, it is fully balanced with essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements, ensuring horses receive complete nutritional support. As a mash, it also promotes fluid intake — an added benefit for digestive function and hydration.

The Take-Home Message

If you are managing a sharp or “fizzy” horse, the solution is rarely to remove protein — and rarely to reduce calories altogether.

Instead, focus on:

• Lowering starch and sugar
• Prioritising fibre and oil for slow-release energy
• Supporting digestive health
• Providing balanced nutrition

With the right approach, you can support muscle development, maintain condition and encourage a more settled, rideable temperament — all without compromising performance.