Tag: colic

Posted on

Fiber in Horse Feeds

In our previous post, we learned what fiber is and how a horse digests it,and we also learned that a horse consuming 1-1.5% of it’s bodyweight in quality roughage will satisfy its daily fiber requirements. In today’s blog we will review everything you need to know about fiber in horse feed.

horse feed being dumped in to bucket representing fiber in horse feedConsidering the Impact of Fiber In Horse Feed on Digestion

When it comes to any grain sources that may be added to your horse’s diet, fiber plays a much smaller role since the amount of fiber that is added by grains is relatively little, but the effect and digestive process is similar.

Managing Grain Portion and Avoiding Digestive Issues

When feeding the grain portion of the diet, ensure that your horse is not receiving high quantities of grain meals all at once – typically no more than 5-6 pounds of grain per meal at most. Because grains tend to be higher in starch than roughage, feeding too much at once can overwhelm the small size and quick rate of passage of food through the stomach and small intestine, and allow starches to pass undigested to the hindgut. Digestion of starches in the hindgut releases lactic acids that are toxic to the fiber-digesting microorganisms, which can result in a gas colic episode or laminitis.

Understanding Energy Content in Equine Rations

Generally speaking, when you look at a the tag from a basic equine ration, the higher the crude fiber level listed, the lower the energy content of the feed.  Of course, there are other factors that must be looked at, such as the fat level, and also possibly the sources of fiber.

Beet Pulp and Other Options for Increased Fiber in Horse Feed

Beet pulp, for example, is often referred to as a “super-fiber” due to the high level of fiber it provides while also providing roughly the same energy level as oats.  While soy hulls and dehydrated alfalfa are common ingredients used to increase fiber levels, a performance horse ration with a higher fiber level may make use of beet pulp to achieve both increased energy and increased fiber levels.

Ready to ensure your horse is getting the optimum nutrition at feeding time, every time? Find the perfect feed formulated specifically for horse’s needs with our Feed Selector Tool.

Feed Selector tool

Posted on

Self-Mutilation in Horses: Is Your Horse Displaying Self-Mutilation Traits?

Self-Mutilation in HorsesA characteristic that is often times difficult to pin-point, self-mutilation is sometimes an overlooked concern.

The challenge lies in determining whether it’s truly a self-mutilation concern, or a behavior caused by colic or other health concerns.

So what is self-mutilation in horses? Generally, it’s much more common in males (often stallions) than in females.

The pattern can develop as a colt, where they may begin to nip at their chest or flank. It is often brought by the on-set of sexual maturity. It can start as missing patches in the hair coat, and progress to more prevalent wounds.

It is important, if your horse is displaying signs of self-mutilation, to consult your veterinarian to rule out internal or external sources of pain.

This can often times be the reason for the self-mutilation, so it’s important to troubleshoot these issues with your veterinarian.

Eliminating the pain (if present) is the first step in combating the problem. Other options could include a ridged neck cradle, providing more time out of confinement, adding a stall-mate or increasing work or exercise.

Like with cribbing, feed management can also play a factor. Providing free-choice hay, with a slow feeding haynet can sometimes ease that boredom that can be associated with the cause of self-mutilation.

Again, consult your veterinarian on a treatment plan that will best fit you and your horse.

Posted on

Colic In Horses: Pinpoint the Pain

Colic In HorsesWhat is colic in horses?
Colic is defined as abdominal pain. It could be associated with any organ in the abdominal cavity. Generally, it refers to pain originating from the digestive tract. Colic is one of the most common causes of emergency treatment in horses. It also is the leading disease cause of death in horses.

What causes it?
Causes are many and are classified according to the contributory causes, disease present and the location in the gastrointestinal tract where the problem occurs. Examples include: ileus from intestinal spasms, gas colic resulting from nonstructural carbohydrates (starch and sugars) overloading the small intestine, obstructive colic which may be an impaction of the small or large intestine, enteritis or colitis which is inflammation of the small or large intestine, displacement, strangulation and gastric or intestinal ulcers.

What are contributory factors? (Excluding parasites)

  1. Starch overload. The feeding of cereal grains with high levels of starch that exceed the capacity of the small intestine’s ability to enzymatically break down starch and sugars, undigested starch and sugars that reach the cecum create acidosis which result in gas production, death of fibrolytic bacteria, rapid multiplication of pathogenic bacteria, destruction of the intestinal mucosa and the absorption of toxins. Gas production can contribute to displacement of the colon and strangulation. The amount of feed presented to the horse, the starch level in the feed, the source of the starch, the processing of the feed and the rate of intake are factors that can contribute. There are individual differences among horses but starch levels should not exceed 0.2% of body weight per meal.
  2. Impaction – This occurs within the lumen of intestine and may be associated with poor quality hay, lack of water consumption, large meal size, poor dental function and feeding high levels of starch. It is recommended not to exceed 0.5% of bodyweight per meal on the concentrate fed.
  3. Lack of forage – Forage should be available free choice preferably but should be fed at 1.5 – 2% of body weight per day.
  4. Pasture – Lack of access to pasture can be a contributory factor. Grass contains 70%+ moisture and the grazing process allows for exercise and trickle consumption.
  5. Change of diet – Changing hay or feed should be done gradually to allow the microflora to adapt. Sudden abrupt changes in feed or hay can be contributory factors.
  6. Feeding management practices – if possible feed individually. Competitive group feeding can cause horses to ingest too much and too rapidly. If horses are fed in groups use feeders that are spread out.
  7. Feeding routine should be consistent. Try and space the meals out and not feed meals close together.
  8. Feeding routine should have hay put out first before the feed. This will slow feed intake which is desirable.
  9. Avoid moldy feed and hay. Feed and hay should be stored properly and should be examined for the presence of mold.
  10. Inadequate water consumption is a contributory factor. Fresh clean water should be readily available at all times.
  11. Free choice salt preferably in loose form.
  12. Avoid alfalfa hay with blister beetles, black walnut shavings as bedding. Feeding management should address the prevention of sand ingestion where sandy soils occur.

Content provided by: Dr. Jim Ward, DVM, Equine Management Consultant, Cargill, Inc.

Posted on

Feeding Bran Mashes to Horses

Feeding bran mashes to horses has been a longstanding tradition, often believed to have a laxative effect and prevent colic. However, there are important considerations and potential risks associated with this practice. This article aims to provide insights into the effects of bran on horses and highlight the importance of maintaining a balanced diet.

Laxative Effect and Irritation

Limited Laxative Effect

While bran is known to have a laxative effect in humans, horses would need to consume large quantities of bran to experience a similar effect. Feeding bran in amounts greater than a horse can consume is not practical. Some horses may produce softer stools after consuming bran, but this is likely due to bran’s tendency to irritate the lining of equine intestines rather than its laxative properties.

Potential for Irritation and Enterolith Formation

Consistently feeding bran over a long period of time can potentially contribute to the formation of enteroliths. Enteroliths are mineralized masses that can develop in a horse’s gastrointestinal tract. Bran’s tendency to irritate the intestinal lining may play a role in this process. Therefore, caution should be exercised when considering daily bran regimens.

Calcium-Phosphorus Ratio

Importance of Proper Ratio

The calcium-phosphorus ratio is crucial for building sound bones and supporting muscle function in horses. Both minerals need to be absorbed in appropriate proportions, preferably with a ratio of 1.2 or more parts calcium to 1 part phosphorus. Imbalances in this ratio can lead to issues with skeletal strength and overall health.

Bran’s Calcium-Phosphorus Imbalance

Wheat bran and rice bran, commonly used in bran mashes, contain approximately 10 times more phosphorus than calcium. Regularly feeding bran in large quantities can disrupt the calcium-phosphorus balance in a horse’s diet. When phosphorus exceeds calcium over an extended period, the horse’s body may draw additional calcium from its bones, potentially weakening the skeletal structure.

Moderation and Balanced Diet

Occasional Treats

Feeding an occasional bran mash as a treat is generally safe and can be enjoyed by horses. However, it is essential to monitor the frequency and quantity of bran feedings to prevent long-term imbalances.

Caution and Calcium Supplementation

Daily bran regimens in significant quantities should be avoided unless calcium is supplemented elsewhere in the horse’s diet to maintain a proper calcium-phosphorus ratio. Ensuring that the overall diet provides sufficient calcium is vital for supporting the horse’s skeletal and muscular health.

Balancing Tradition and Nutritional Considerations

While feeding bran mashes to horses is a traditional practice, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and nutritional implications. Regular and excessive feeding of bran without proper calcium supplementation can lead to imbalances and weaken the horse’s skeletal structure. By exercising moderation and ensuring a balanced diet, horse owners can safely incorporate occasional bran treats while prioritizing the horse’s long-term health and well-being.

Ready to ensure your horse is getting the optimum nutrition at feeding time, every time? Find the perfect feed formulated specifically for horse’s needs with our Feed Selector Tool.

Feed Selector tool
Posted on

Management Practices: Reducing the Risk of Colic

Colic is one of the leading health problems facing horse owners. According to the USDA’s National Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) Equine Study 1998, about 4% of the horse population experiences colic each year. Colic rated second only to old age as the cause of death in equines. The same study indicated that horse owners most commonly identified “unknown” causes for colic, followed by gas colic and feed related.

Feeding management and non-feeding-related management practices can all have an impact on reducing the risk of colic.

The following management practices can aid in reducing the risk of colic:

  1. Parasite Control: Includes proper sanitation and regular deworming per program.
  2. Dental Care: Be sure to schedule regular dental exams as needed.
  3. Fresh Clean Water: A lack of water in both cold and warm weather may increase risk of colic.
  4. Consistent Diet: Avoiding sudden changes in either hay or grain may help reduce risk.  A survey by Dr. Noah Cohen et al in Texas indicated forage changes are associated with colic more frequently than changes in the grain portion of the diet.
  5. Avoid Starch Overload. Starch overload, or allowing undigested starch to get to the hindgut, is a major cause of gas colic.  Limiting meal size, maintaining equal feeding intervals, and selecting controlled starch feed products for a feeding program, may help reduce the risk of starch overload. 
  6. Feed Additives. Some feed additives, such as direct fed microbials and yeast culture, may also be beneficial in improving forage utilization and digestion.

Colic prevention—rather than colic treatment—is clearly much better for both the horse and the horse owner.

Privacy Policy | Terms