Dear Dr. Getty,

I have a warmblood yearling. He is tall and has been in good shape until now. Although he was in a good deworming schedule three months ago he had ascarids. He is thin -you can see the ribs- since then and I am concerned. He had a complete check up and he is, otherwise, healthy. His latest feeding is:
free grass -although there is not much because it hasn´t rained- and
twice daily: 2 kg oats and 1/2 kg corn. I have also added a high protein supplement.
My question is: is that a good plan or what should I be feeding him?.
I am in Argentina so I don´t have access to some feeds, like beet pulp.

thank yuo very much!
mariana

Where are you from? Argentina

How did you locate this forum? reference from another forum -equine reproduction-

Hi Mariana,

Thank you for writing. I would make a few adjustments to your feeding plan:

1. Discontinue feeding corn. This is very poorly digested and can therefore, end up in the hind gut where it can lead to laminitis.

2. Feed alfalfa -- either hay, pellets, or cubes (broken into small pieces). Feed approximately 20 to 30% of his hay ration.

3. Feed a good quality grass hay since you mentioned that your fresh grass pasture is not very good. Grass hay is the basis of his diet and he should have all he wants.

4. Add some lysine to the diet since he is growing. He should have at least 44 grams per day, so having your hay evaluated would be helpful.

You mentioned a protein supplement -- this may or may not be appropriate. He really could benefit from a vitamin/mineral supplement designed for growth.

Make sure he has a plain, white salt block at all times, and clean water free of algae growth, insects, and bird droppings.

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO

Thank you a lot!. I made all the adjustments you indicated. Thank you again,
mariana

Where are you from? Argentina

How did you locate this forum? another forum

Hi Mariana,

Glad to help!

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO