Hi Dr. Getty, thanks for getting back to me so quickly. Good to hear that I can give both of those feeds and not worry. His stools have been soft but well formed up until today, they are more like cow pies. What is causing this, is it the amount of feed at one time, or could something else be causing the problem. I do not want it to develop into full diarrhea, that could be very bad for him. He cannot eat hay at all, he had his teeth floated about 2 week s ago and has not been able to chew hay ever since. Therefore his only source of food are the mashes I provide him.

Where are you from? Bancroft

How did you locate this forum? by accident

Hi Joyce,

My pleasure!

Hi loose stools may be in response to the increased fiber in his diet. It make take a week or so more for the bacteria to adjust to the new diet. A loose stool on occasion is not anything to worry about. Reduced hormonal levels (normal as horses age), weather changes, water consumption – these things can create an occasional problem. If, however, he starts to get diarrhea, he may have a digestive problem that could likely be helped by giving him a probiotic preparation every day, to help him maintain normal bacterial flora in his hind gut.

So, let me know how he is doing and what changes are occurring. That way I can give you more specific advice.

Dr. Getty

Thanks, but what is a probiotic preparation? Sorry I have not had to delve into the world of feeds until just recently as Bert used to eat just normal hay, etc.

joyce

Where are you from? Bancroft

How did you locate this forum? by accident

Hi Joyce,

A probiotic is generally a mixture of bacteria and enzymes that help a horse maintain a healthy bacterial flora inside the hind gut. There are several on the market – ProBios is one that is popular. You can purchase a probiotic at your local feed store or on line. You’ll want to offer this every day until his stools are normal, and then once each week.

Hope this is helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions. That’s why I’m here.

Dr. Getty

Thankyou, I will check with the local feed store tomorrow first thing. I will let you know how the old guy is doing.

Have a wonderful Christmas!!!!

Joyce

Where are you from? Bancroft

How did you locate this forum? by accident