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 Gail,
Most older horses are prone to founder because they develop hormonal imbalances as they age. For this reason, you will want to feed a diet that does not contain any grain or sweet feed, or pellets that are grain-based. Instead, feed a grass hay diet, along with some alfalfa (as long as he does not have kidney problems) and add to it, depending on his weight, some flaxseed meal, stabilized rice bran, or beet pulp (unsweetened).
Then, it is beneficial to give him two supplements. First, one that is high in antioxidants such as Antioxidant Concentrate (by Vita Key) or Accel (by Vita Flex). And, second, offer him Ration Plus to keep the bacterial flora, that live in his hind gut, in good condition. This will help maintain his immune function, the production of B vitamins, and utilization of his feed.
I hope this is helpful.
All the best,
Dr. Getty
