Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition

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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

Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition

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Comment

t

Jan 23, 2007 - 11:47AM

Protein in feed

Hi, I have a 20+yr old QH mare and 10 yr old large pony. I have been feeding a 14% protein horse feed consisting of oats, corn & molasses. Which both are maintaining and doing well on it. Is this ok, I have been told by some that I should feed a lower protein feed.

Thanks for your help, Taryn

Where are you from? Johnstown, NY

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Jan 23rd, 2007 - 11:47 AM

d

Jan 24, 2007 - 3:14PM

Re: Protein in feed

Hi Taryn,

The protein level is fine. And, if you exercise your horses, and they are both of normal weight, are not prone toward laminitis, and do not exhibit any fat deposits on the neck, rump, and back, then you're likely ok with this feed. However, any of these conditions would warrant switching to a feed that is lower in starch. This is especially true for your older horse. Older horses are prone toward developing insulin resistance and Cushings syndrome, so it's important to keep their activity level up and the weight down, along with not overdoing the starch and sugar intake.

All the best,

Dr. Getty :)

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO

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Jan 24th, 2007 - 3:14 PM