Eight Equine Feeding Tips

When it comes to feeding horses it depends on theA Thoroughbred will have different needs than a
amount of work being done and on how nutritiousShetland pony. Make sure bulk in the form of hay is
the grass in the paddock is. The stabled horse willavailable at all times to occupy the digestive system.
obviously need a different mix of grains to one onWhen feeding hay as a supplement always make
grass, but most grass fed horses will still needsure it is fresh and sweet smelling and doesn't contain
supplemental feeding.dust. Shake it out well before feeding it.
1. Before you feed your horse you should offer him5. Horses are animals of routine so making sudden or
water. If he drinks large draughts of fluid after hecomplete changes to their diet will cause stomach
has eaten it will just flush all your expensive foodupsets. Always introduce new foods slowly so the
straight through his system undigested.digestive tract has time to adjust.
2. If you are working your horse hard you will have6. Keep your feeding times set, horses can get
to feed him more than if you are not working him;anxious when their regular routines are changed.
makes sense doesn't it? Many people don't7. Don't skimp on food, quality is important and
understand this basic principle; if you work him lessskipping corners can lead to upset stomachs and colic.
you will have to ration the food.8. Never feed your horse immediately before or
3. Horses are a grazing animal and are designed toafter a strenuous workout. Horses don't operate
eat little and often, if you are only hard feeding thenafter eating a meal and if you feed a big meal before
offering smaller amounts constantly is a better ideahe has had a chance to cool down again you could
than one big meal.be inviting colic.
4. Take into consideration the breed when you feed.