Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
Welcome to my forum.
Here you will find more than 6 years of questions and my answers. It is searchable and offers a great deal of information.
Currently, I am discontinuing new questions. This may change in the future, but in the meantime, please know that It has been a true pleasure serving you.
Take a look at my Nutrition Library and Tips of the Month for a variety of answers on selected topics. Be sure to sign up for my monthly e-newsletter, Forage for Thought.
I also have a growing number of recordings on "Teleseminars on Nutrition Topics that Concern You" as well as the new, Spotlight on Equine Nutrition Series -- printed versions of favorite teleseminars.
And finally, look for my articles in a variety of local publications and online newsletters, as well as the Horse Journal, where I am the Contributing Nutrition Editor.
All the best,
Dr. Getty
Hi Cajun,
That is wonderful news! You are doing such a fine job with him and I'm really pleased to know that all the changes you've made have made such a difference!
You asked about canola oil and it's a really good question. A lot of people add oil to increase calories, and oil is very well tolerated by horses. In fact, adding fat to the diet is a preferred way to add calories, rather than adding more grain.
Canola oil is a good oil, but flaxseed oil (or the fat from the meal) is much better. Flaxseed oil contains a large amount of omega 3 fatty acids whereas canola oil only has a very small amount.
Commonly used oils, such as corn and soybean, are mostly made of omega 6 fatty acids. These fatty acids promote inflammation, so I do not recommend them.
All the best,
Dr. Getty 