EquiBiome Gut Health Test (UK)
 
University laboratory microbiome analysis with practical, vet-safe guidance
Please read the information below carefully before ordering.
 
One test. Interpreted for your horse.
The EquiBiome Gut Health Test uses the same laboratory analysis for every horse, processed using university laboratory facilities and Illumina gene sequencing technology.
 
Your results are then interpreted in the most relevant context based on the information you provide about your horse.
 
This may include discussion of:
general gut health and resilience
performance and recovery (including racehorses)
metabolic sensitivity / EMS context
starch sensitivity and hindgut stability (acidosis risk)
headshaking or unexplained sensitivity (contextual analysis)
You do not need to choose a specific test — all relevant contexts are considered where appropriate.
 
What does the test analyse?
The EquiBiome test examines the hindgut microbiome — the complex community of bacteria involved in:
fibre fermentation
energy supply
gut lining support
metabolic and immune signalling
 
Between 500 and 1,200 bacterial groups are identified and organised into a clear, easy-to-read report, designed to help owners make informed dietary and management decisions.
This test does not replace veterinary diagnosis and does not diagnose disease.
 
Why hindgut analysis matters
While foregut conditions such as gastric ulcers are assessed using endoscopy and clinical signs, there is no equivalent diagnostic test for hindgut function.
Microbiome analysis provides additional context that may be useful when managing horses with:
recurrent digestive disturbance
sensitivity to diet or starch
performance inconsistency
metabolic risk factors
recovery following illness, stress, or medication
Results should always be considered alongside veterinary advice.
 
How long do results take?
Microbial DNA extraction and analysis is complex.
Please allow 4–6 weeks from the time we receive your sample for results to be delivered by email.
Important postage information
Please ensure correct postage is attached when returning your kit.
Due to UN legislation, we are unable to include prepaid return envelopes.
Incorrect postage may cause significant delays.
 
Multiple tests
If purchasing multiple kits, please keep a record linking:
the horse’s name
to the number on the sample tube
We can log samples by tube number and owner, but horse details must be provided by you.
 
Required information
When ordering, please include brief details about your horse (e.g. age, diet, workload, known issues, recent medication).
This allows us to interpret results in the most relevant and accurate context.
 
EquiBiome Gut Health Test
University laboratory analysis | Illumina sequencing
www.equibiome.org