Assessing the Horse's Diet- Health, Unwanted Behaviors, and other Concerns

Assessing your horse's diet 

Folks often create an initial feed program with a new horse. Years later, they tend to still be feeding the same thing, without really assessing if it is appropriate for the horse's current health, work regime, health, seasonal changes, etc.

As enthusiasts are starting to expand their education with horses they are starting to recognize nutrition, farrier care, dental practices, bodywork, and much more as part of the responsibility of horse ownership. AND, how all these aspects contribute to the behaviors, physical health, and quality of interactions with their horse.

I personally find many people overfeed processed feeds with high sugar levels. Many horses are sensitive to this and it causes issues ranging from behavioral to digestive.

Also, learn to recognize if there is a possible gut imbalance or side effects from daily medications.

 
Take time and learn about the ingredients in the grain or supplements you are feeding.

Assess why you started feeding them, if they are a positive contributor to your horse's health, and if any adaptations need to be made.

Spend time watching your horse eat both hay and any supplements. Many folks invest in a lot of feed that unfortunately the horse with unaddressed dental issues is unable to chew and digest properly to get the most nutritional benefit.

Inspect your horse's manure. It is a great way to literally see what has been processed or just passed through his digestive system.

Be sure to feed what works for your horse and not just what "everyone else" is feeding at the barn.

Depending on the horse, changes in the feed may need to be adjusted seasonally.
It is up to you to prioritize trying to offer the balance in your horse's health to help him be the best version of himself.