My 16 y/o, 16.3H, 1300-1400# Iberian Warmblood gelding is showing signs of EPSM. Need to change his diet, including any necessary supplementation. He is a very easy keeper, and if possible I would like to allow him plentiful turnout.

He also had a couple of anhidrotic episodes last summer. Besides treating with One AC and electrolytes is there anything else nutritionally that can be done? Is there any tie in with EPSM?

Magnesium Oxide supplementation -- I can get straight MagOx (FeedOx) at a much lower rate than some other products. Is it acceptable to feed 1/4 c (2 oz) of this product?

Where are you from? Williamston, NC

How did you locate this forum? referral

I forgot to include what he is currently being fed:

1-1/2# Triple Crown Lite
2 oz MagOx
2 oz Ground flax seed
MSM

Access to free choice vit/mineral which he never touches and free choice salt. Fresh water. 24/7 turnout as weather permits. When stalled, grass hay (coastal & timothy), usually about 4 flakes.

Where are you from? Williamston, NC

How did you locate this forum? referral

Hello Susan,

Your overall diet looks sound. It is low in starch. Check the feeding instructions on the TC Lite. If you are not feeding according to directions, you should consider adding a supplement to get all the vitamins and minerals necessary to fill in the gaps.

My only recommendation would be to have your hay and pasture analyzed to make sure that it is not too high in sugars and starch. If you have trouble locating a testing facility locally, try Equi-Analytical at www.equi-analytical.com.

I would avoid an electrolyte supplement since he is already getting minerals from the Triple Crown Lite. Instead make sure that he is getting enough plain salt. A plain, white salt lick is important, but also add 1 ounce (two level tablespoons) of table salt (uniodized since iodine is likely in the TC feed), added to each meal.

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO