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 Heidi,
Just about all horses develop encysted larvae over time, so it's a good idea to treat for them every year or two. A distended belly could be due to this situation, or could simply be a poor quality hay. The belly naturally expands when bacteria ferment forage, and this is normal and healthy. But, if it is extreme and consistent, then you should consider that it is something else, such as the encysted larvae.
Glad to help!
Dr. Getty 
Where are you from? Bayfield, CO