4CYTE for Horses: Equine Gel or Granules?

4CYTE says the Equine Gel has a stronger concentration of Epiitalis, while the Equine Granules also contain abalone, New Zealand green-lipped mussel and marine cartilage, so the better fit depends on which of those matters to you. Both products list Epiitalis as an active ingredient and both are dosed daily. This guide sticks to what 4CYTE says about each one so you can compare them side by side.

What is Epiitalis?

4CYTE calls Epiitalis its world-exclusive, patented ingredient, and describes it as a naturally-derived plant seed oil extract. It lists Epiitalis as an active ingredient in both the Equine Gel and the Equine Granules. If you also use 4CYTE for other animals, see our 4CYTE guide for dogs, cats and horses.

What is the Equine Gel?

The 4CYTE Equine Epiitalis Forte Gel comes in 250 ml and 1 litre sizes. 4CYTE describes it as a daily feed additive. According to its directions, you draw an accurate volume of the suspension using the applicator supplied, then add it to your horse's feed. 4CYTE also says the gel is highly palatable, suitable for horses who dislike marine based products, and a convenient option for horses that are needle-shy. It says the 1 litre size will last approximately 250 days on maintenance volume.

What are the Equine Granules?

We list the 4CYTE Equine Granules in a 700 g pail. According to 4CYTE, they are made with Epiitalis as well as abalone, New Zealand green-lipped mussel and marine cartilage, which it describes as adding coat and gut health benefits. Its directions say to use the scoop supplied and mix the granules with your horse's feed. 4CYTE also describes them as having a palatable flavour and says they maintain joint health at all ages and stages of life.

How the two differ

Reading 4CYTE's product pages side by side, three things differ. The first is concentration: the gel contains a stronger concentration of Epiitalis than the granules. The second is added ingredients: the granules also include abalone, New Zealand green-lipped mussel and marine cartilage. The third is measurement: the gel is drawn up in millilitres, while the granules are measured in scoops.

How much for a 600 kg horse?

4CYTE gives its rates for a 600 kg horse, and the two products are dosed differently. If you are also feeding an older horse, our guide to feeding an older horse is worth a read.

Equine Gel: 4CYTE says to start on 8 ml a day for 14 days, then reduce to 4 ml a day. For horses having undergone recent surgery or those with poor joint function, it recommends starting on the loading volume. For horses with no known joint pathology, it says to start on the maintenance volume. According to 4CYTE, the amount can be varied based on the weight of the animal and state of joint function.

Equine Granules: 4CYTE says to start with 1/4 scoop mixed with feed, slowly increased over the first five days. After that, increase to 1 scoop (21 g) a day for 4 weeks, then reduce to 1/2 scoop (10.5 g) a day, ongoing.

How long does 4CYTE take to work?

4CYTE says visible results vary from animal to animal. It says improvement may be seen in as little as a week, but it can take up to four weeks to see marked improvement. On the gel's product page, it says improvements can be seen in as little as 7 to 14 days with a once daily volume. It also says it provides continuous results, even after the initial 28 days of dosing. If your horse is lame or stiff, talk to your vet.

Swabbing and sport rules

4CYTE says it is a natural joint health supplement and will not swab. It also says it is used widely in performance and racing horses with no contraindications. Its own note reads: "Please note, however, that you should always check with your governing body on your sport's specific rules."

Our picks

To choose between the three products we list, start with what you want from 4CYTE. If you want the stronger concentration of Epiitalis, that is the Equine Gel. If you want the added abalone, New Zealand green-lipped mussel and marine cartilage, that is the Equine Granules. If you are new to 4CYTE, 4CYTE says both the 250 ml gel and the 700 g granules are ideal for first time users. If you already use it or have more than one horse, the 1 litre gel is the size 4CYTE says is ideal for repeat users or for those with multiple horses. If your horse dislikes marine based products or is needle-shy, the gel is the one 4CYTE describes as suitable.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between 4CYTE Equine Gel and Equine Granules?

According to 4CYTE, the gel has a stronger concentration of Epiitalis, while the granules also contain abalone, New Zealand green-lipped mussel and marine cartilage. The gel is measured in millilitres and the granules in scoops.

How much 4CYTE does a 600 kg horse get each day?

For the Equine Gel, 4CYTE says 8 ml a day for 14 days, then 4 ml a day. For the Equine Granules, it says 1 scoop (21 g) a day for 4 weeks, then 1/2 scoop (10.5 g) a day, after an introduction that starts at 1/4 scoop and is slowly increased over the first five days.

How long does 4CYTE take to work in horses?

4CYTE says improvement may be seen in as little as a week, but it can take up to four weeks to see marked improvement. Visible results vary from animal to animal.

Is 4CYTE safe for ponies?

4CYTE says the Equine Gel is safe for use in ponies. It also describes its range as natural and safe to use long-term.

Does 4CYTE swab?

According to 4CYTE, it will not swab. It also says you should always check with your governing body on your sport's specific rules.

Browse more joint and health products in Horse Health & Supplements.

Sources

Product facts in this guide are taken from the manufacturers' own pages listed below and from the product listings on this site; general care points are given as practical guidance, not veterinary advice. Last reviewed 15 October 2026.

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