When it comes to feeding your horse, there are a couple of aspects to consider before purchasing a feed.

 

You have to take into consideration the shape your horse is currently in, as well as the amount of work your hooved friend will be doing.

 

Some aspects to consider when buying feed:

 

How much energy is needed

 

It is important to look at the maize content within the feed, as maize relates to heat and supplying a horse with lots of energy. Therefore choose low maize content if you aim to have a calm and cool horse.

Most feed ranges include a maize-free product such as Spurwing Tranquilo or Epol Cool Rider

 

How much nutrition / vitamins / supplements is necessary to maintain condition

 

Adequate amounts of various vitamins and minerals are needed to ensure that your horse is in good condition.

Most animals need adequate amounts of calcium, biotin, omega 3 and 6 oils and garlic to ensure healthy bone structure, healthy hooves, glossy coat and proper metabolism

 

What is the balance between sugar contents and in what form is the sugar incorporated within the feed e.g. molasses

 

An adequate amount of sugar should be present in the right form – preferably molasses. Ensure that sugar content is not too high to avoid unwanted weight gain which later on leads to excessive strain on joints.

 

What percentage protein is needed to build adequate muscle only for the amount of work which is done by the horse

 

Protein is essential in build of muscle tissue, therefore ensure that there is a good percentage of protein within feed to help strengthen your horse

 

Too high protein content in relation to the amount of work that your horse is doing in a day could lead to hoof problems

Younger growing horses do need a slightly higher protein content in feed but ensure it is adequate in relation to how much activity the horse performs daily

 

How much roughage is included to ensure healthy digestion

 

Healthy digestion is very important in any horse’s diet especially in order to avoid colic

Ensure the feed that you choose has enough roughage to cater for your horse’s digestive system