Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Dr. Getty
Hi JS,
I think you're feeding fine, except perhaps there's a way you can feed him more hay without him wasting it. I use a hay feeder and this keeps the hay confined better than if you just put it on the ground, since as you said, they will mess on it.
There are two suggestions I would make. The first one is the most important, and that's to add Ration Plus to his diet to help him obtain more calories from his forage. This will make a significant difference in his ability to gain weight. Give him two teaspoons each day until he gains the weight you're wanting, and then cut back to a maintenance dose of one teaspoon per day.
The second one is not as critical but if your budget will allow it, would make a wonderful difference in his overall health and appearance. That is, the addition of flaxseed meal in the form of Nutra Flax. The omega 3 fatty acids that it would provide will add calories, but will also help his internal organs, his hooves, hair coat, and joints become healthy.
I would suggest adding 4 ounces twice each day.
I hope this is helpful. Thank you for the updates and please continue to keep me posted.
All the best,
Dr. Getty
Where are you from? Bayfield, Colorado