Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Dr. Getty
Hi Samantha,
It’s very apparent that Harley is responding to an elevated blood sugar (glucose) level produced by feeding him sugar (from the molasses in the sweet feed) or starch (from the oats). Some horses are more sensitive than others to changes in their blood glucose.
This is compounded by the fact that he was eating nothing more than hay for months and then given oats. So, the best thing for your horse is to not feed any grain.
Beet pulp is an excellent alternative. You do not have to feed it with grain. It is best fed as a mash, where you soak it in warm water for a few hours. But, you can feed it dry, as well. Be sure to buy plain, unsweetened, beet pulp. This will give him the extra calories he needs without the risk of adding starch to the diet.
To assist with his mood from another angle, I would recommend that you offer him a flower essence known as “Rescue Remedy.” You can find it on line. It is very helpful for all living creatures, including humans, as a gentle calming agent. You can put a few drops in his food or on his tongue.
I hope this is helpful.
All the best,
Dr. Getty
