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
Hello Kat,
There are many ways to go about developing a feeding plan. Basically, you’ll want most of the diet to come from roughage – grass and legume hays and/or pasture. Horses need to be able to graze on pasture or hay 24/7 in order to keep their digestive systems healthy.
A yearling has additional nutrient needs that can be met by feeding a complete commercial ration (that is low in starch and sugar) or you can combine feedstuffs together to make your own, along with a multiple vitamin/mineral supplement.
Clean water needs to be provided at all times, along with a basic iodized salt lick.
Thanks for writing,
Dr. Getty
