We’ve created a guide to help owners with horses and ponies that struggle to maintain a healthy weight and might be prone to laminitis.
The majority of laminitis cases are linked to Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID or Cushings). In both conditions, insulin dysregulation is a major risk factor, along with excess calories and obesity. Springtime can be a particularly precarious time for owners with horses and ponies that are prone to laminitis or that are overweight.
The Products We Recommend
There are many feeds available that may be suitable for horses that are prone to laminitis and picking the correct feed will depend on several factors, including whether your horse is on box rest or is exercising and needing more energy.
The high fibre, low starch and sugar range from HorseHage and Mollichaff can all be identified with the HoofKind logo which denotes they are all suitable for horses that are prone to laminitis, depending on calorie needs and where they are in their journey to recovery.
Mollichaff Alfalfa Oil is a molasses free option for horses and ponies with higher energy requirements or who struggle to maintain their condition. Mollichaff Alfalfa oil is naturally low in sugar and starch and suitable for horses showing signs of gastric discomfort and that are prone to laminitis. This product is highly palatable and has added oil for slow-release energy and to support a healthy coat.
Mollichaff Light Molasses Free is a good source of fibre for horses and ponies on a calorie-controlled diet, as it is low in starch and sugar. This chaff product can be used as part of a bucket feed, partial forage replacer or to help support enrichment activities for horses and ponies on restricted grazing.
Mollichaff Hoofkind Complete is a highly palatable combination containing a balanced blend of oat straw, alfalfa, fibre pellets, soya oil, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, antioxidants and biotin. It is low in starch and sugar, high in fibre and does not contain any cereals. Mollichaff Hoofkind was specially formulated for good doers, those that are in light work and need calorie-controlled diets.
Mollichaff Calmer Complete is formulated with high-quality ingredients aimed at decreasing anxiety and exerting a calming influence making it ideal for those that are excitable or nervous. This low starch and sugar complete feed is also cereal and alfalfa free and suitable for those that maintain their weight.
Tips for feeding and management
Strip grazing, track systems and grazing muzzles may also help to control pasture intake and support your horse’s weight management regime.
For a calorie-controlled diet, it is important to ensure it is still balanced to support the health and performance of the horse.
Restricted turnout and box rest may increase the risk of respiratory issues due to a dusty stable environment. A dust free forage, i.e. HorseHage High Fibre, may need to be considered.
Weight Management
It’s our responsibility as horse owners to manage excess weight and reduce the risk of weight related health issues occurring.
However, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to equine weight management, so a more tailored approach is required to craft a weight management strategy that works well for you and your horse.
Want free nutritional advice?
Our friendly and knowledgeable team is available on weekdays from 9am to 5pm.
Give us a call at 01803 527274 or send an email to sales@horsehage.co.uk
