Y
ou would think the answer to helping a poor horse gain condition would be simple: feed
them more energy than they use. But step a little closer and you are likely to spot more questions than answers! After all, one underweight horse can be very different to the next. Variables such as age, workload, health status and living conditions are all possible contributors to why the horse became underweight in the first place – but they can also point to the best way forward for safe weight gain.
Get the basics right When it comes to feeding horses, nearly every approach must first touch on roughage. Weight gain is no exception. Before exploring the array of available concentrates, complete feeds and weight gain supplements, give some thought to how much roughage your horse is getting. Whether they’re under or over-conditioned, a horse needs a daily minimum of 1.5 per cent of its bodyweight in roughage (pasture, hay, chaff, or super fibres such as beet pulp or lupin hulls). The fibre in roughage is generally a good energy source. However, keep an eye out for behavioural changes as your horse may react to the high sugar content of some hays and pastures! In terms of weight gain, you will want to ensure that the roughage component is
NUTRITION
both good quality and in ample supply. Where possible, the horse should have free access to roughage, meaning
Adding weight the healthy way
it can chew all day if so inclined. A round bale or multiple hay nets can be a means of meeting this goal. If the poorly conditioned horse is in a herd environment, then it may be necessary to separate them from the herd for at least a portion of the day, to ensure they are able to access and consume the
At first glance, the answer to improving your horse’s condition seems obvious. HOLLY MILLS explains why it’s sometimes not that simple.
additional feed you are providing.
Ingredients to look for Calorie dense ingredients will contribute to your horse’s weight gain, but not all
