I have been feeding alfalfa hay for quite sometime. But recently the hay quality isn't that great. My mare has developed a cough too. I have switched to feeding pellets. Its a hay/corn type pellet. My question is how many pounds do i feed a day. I have three mares, two are rodeo horses and one is still dealing with lameness and is over weight. Thanks for your help.

Where are you from? Arizona

How did you locate this forum? via internet search

Hi Kendra,

I would not recommend feeding corn, since it is poorly digested and will increase the risk of laminitis. Plus, you mentioned that one of your horses is overweight, which translates into insulin resistance. A low starch diet is very important in this case, so corn (or any cereal grain such as oats, barley, wheat, etc.) is inappropriate.

Generally speaking, pellets are twice as concentrated as hay. But, they cannot be fed free choice, like hay. And, feeding only alfalfa can cause digestive problems as well as providing too much protein and calories.

So, my suggestion would be to try and locate a grass hay and give them as much as they want. Add about 30% alfalfa to the mix.

A good vitamin/mineral supplement to fill in the gaps, and you're all set! (Don't forget a plain white salt block and fresh water at all times.)

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO