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 Angel,
Any type of hay will produce body heat as a result of its fermentation in the hind gut. Feeding alfalfa provides additional protein, but that is digested in the small intestine. What reaches the hind gut (large intestine and cecum) is the fibrous portion and that's what gets fermented. So, both types of hay provide fiber and lots of it.
Having said that, it's a good idea in most cases, to feed some alfalfa (either as hay, cubes, or pellets) to balance out the protein quality in the diet.
But, there is no need to offer more alfalfa in cold weather. The key is to offer grass hay at all times -- that's 24/7.
All the best,
Dr. Getty 
Where are you from? Bayfield, CO