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
Hello Debbie,
You're correct -- it is gas. But there are factors that can make gas production excessive.
First, make sure your hay is free from mold. Mold is not always black -- a white dust is also an indication of mold and can cause gas colic.
Second, if you have an adequate hay supply, I recommend having it tested. You'll want to see if it contains too much indigestible fiber (indicated by a high ADF and NDF on your hay analysis report). If the hay is of poor quality -- meaning it is not digestible -- this, too can lead to excessive gas formation.
Finally, I recommend a prebiotic (fermentation products, not live microbes) to help boost the health of the hindgut microbial population. Ration Plus is an excellent choice.
Keep me posted.
All the best,
Dr. Getty 
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse
Where are you from? Bayfield, CO