Horses are grazers, meaning that their digestive system is designed for frequent foraging of small amounts of low-quality forage throughout the day. For this reason, high-quality hay can be too rich for a horse’s diet and can lead to health problems. In this article, we’ll discuss what can happen if a horse’s hay is too rich, as well as ways to ensure that your hay is appropriate for your horse’s needs.
What is High-Quality Hay?
High-quality hay is usually higher in protein and energy than low-quality hay. It is usually more leafy and green, and has a higher nutrient content than lower-quality hay. High-quality hay can be very desirable for horses, as it is more palatable and nutritious than lower-quality hay. However, it can be too much of a good thing if the hay is too rich for the horse’s needs.
What Happens if the Hay is Too Rich?
If a horse’s hay is too rich, a variety of health problems can occur. High-quality hay is higher in calories and can lead to obesity, as well as other health complications such as laminitis and colic. It can also lead to digestive upsets and can make a horse more prone to colic or other digestive issues. Additionally, too much of a good thing can lead to a horse becoming “hot” or “spooky” due to the higher levels of energy in the hay.
How to Ensure the Hay is Appropriate for Your Horse
When selecting hay for your horse, it is important to make sure that the hay is appropriate for your horse’s needs. You should always select high-quality hay, but make sure that it is not too high in protein or energy. You can also have the hay tested to make sure that it is appropriate for your horse. Additionally, you should select hay that is appropriate for your horse’s age and activity level.
For horses that are prone to obesity or health issues, it can be beneficial to feed hay that is lower in protein and energy. You can also feed hay cubes, which are a lower-calorie option than hay. Additionally, if your horse is prone to digestive issues, it is important to feed hay that is free of dust, mold, and other contaminants.
Conclusion
Knowing what to look for in hay can help ensure that your horse is getting the nutrition that they need. High-quality hay can be beneficial for a horse, but it is important to make sure that it is not too rich for a horse’s needs. If you are unsure about which hay is appropriate for your horse, you can have it tested or speak with your veterinarian for advice.