Recommended Feed Types During Stress
Stress in horses, such as from transport, competition, illness, or weaning, requires careful dietary adjustments. Recommended feed types include:
- Hay and Forage: High-quality grass or alfalfa hay provides slow-release energy and supports gut health. Aim for at least 1.5% of body weight in forage daily.
- Concentrates: Low-starch, high-fiber feeds (e.g., beet pulp, rice bran) prevent blood sugar spikes and reduce anxiety. Avoid high-grain mixes.
- Electrolytes: Add electrolytes to water or feed to replenish losses from sweating during stress.
- Probiotics and Prebiotics: Support the gut microbiome, which is often disrupted by stress.
- Herbal Calmers: Ingredients like chamomile, valerian, or magnesium can help soothe nerves.
Portion Sizes and Daily Caloric Needs
Caloric requirements increase during stress due to elevated metabolic rate. Adjustments depend on age, weight, and activity level:
| Body Weight (kg) | Light Work (Mcal/day) | Moderate Work (Mcal/day) | Heavy Work (Mcal/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400 | 16-18 | 20-22 | 24-28 |
| 500 | 18-20 | 22-25 | 28-32 |
| 600 | 20-23 | 25-28 | 32-36 |
During stress, increase caloric intake by 10-20%, primarily through fat (e.g., vegetable oil) to avoid excess starch. Forage should remain the base at 1.5-2% of body weight.
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Stressed horses benefit from frequent small meals to maintain stable blood glucose and reduce gastric ulcers. Feed at least 3-4 times daily, with hay available free-choice. Provide water always. If travel is involved, offer hay and water every 2-3 hours.
Essential Nutrients
- Protein: Quality protein (e.g., soybean meal) for tissue repair; 10-14% of diet.
- Fat: 6-10% from vegetable oils or flaxseed for energy and calming effect.
- Carbohydrates: Limited starch; use fiber-based carbs from beet pulp or hay.
- Vitamins: Vitamin E (antioxidant), B vitamins (stress support), and vitamin C (immune boost).
- Minerals: Magnesium (calming), calcium, phosphorus, and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride).
Toxic or Harmful Foods
Avoid toxic items: avocado, chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic (in large amounts), moldy hay, rhubarb, and nightshade plants. Also avoid high-sugar treats that cause colic or laminitis.
Water Intake
Ensure constant access to clean water. Stress may reduce drinking; encourage with electrolytes. A 500-kg horse needs 25-45 liters daily, more in heat or after work. Check hydration via skin tent test and mucous membranes.
Beneficial Supplements
- Magnesium: Calming properties; 5-10 g/day.
- Vitamin E: 1000-2000 IU/day for antioxidant support.
- Probiotics: Repopulate gut flora.
- L- tryptophan: Precursor to serotonin; reduces anxiety.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: From flaxseed or fish oil; anti-inflammatory.
Feeding Differences by Age
Foals: Stress from weaning: provide low- starch creep feed and high-quality hay. Feed small meals; include probiotics. Adults: Adjust energy according to work; during competition stress, increase fat and electrolytes. Seniors: Stress from illness or transport; provide soft, easily digestible feeds like soaked pellets and hay cubes. Add joint supplements and ensure hydration.
Signs of Healthy vs. Poor Diet
Healthy diet signs: bright eyes, shiny coat, normal manure (formed, moist), good appetite, calm demeanor, and consistent weight. Poor diet signs: dull coat, weight loss, diarrhea or colic, cribbing or weaving (stress behaviors), lethargy, and hoof problems. Adjust diet promptly if these appear.