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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 

 

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Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Cindy
Apr 2, 2011 - 1:29AM
Large Pony Poops

My 30+ year old rescue pony, Jettie, has been making huge poops more and more frequently. I am wondering if it could be teeth... not chewing as well and therefore making big BIG poops. I have never seen manure like this. It's about the size of an small to medium eggplant or large potato. What could this could be a symptom of? Yes, she seem sluggish but she always does... she's an old old old pony I found abandoned in a pasture eating plums off a tree about 5 years ago. Yes, she is foundered but it's managed. Does not test for Cushings but looks to have it, anyway.
Thanks

Where are you from? Gig Harbor, WA

How did you locate this forum? referral

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Apr 2nd, 2011 - 1:29 AM
Dr. Getty
Apr 4, 2011 - 4:01PM
Re: Large Pony Poops

Hi Cindy,

I believe you're on the right track since the large manure volume is an indication of undigested material. And if she is not able to chew properly, it will pass through her system predominantly undigested. It's also a high risk for colic.

I would recommend two things. First, have your hay tested by contacting Equi-Analytical Labs. Make sure the NDF (neutral detergent fiber) level is not too high (not more than 60%) -- if it is, that's an indication that your hay contains too much indigestible fiber.

Second, supplement her hay with a hay replacer such as soaked timothy cubes (and about 10% alfalfa cubes). Stay away from anything sweet since she may be cushinoid.

Keep me posted.

All the best,

Dr. Getty
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse

Cindy
My 30+ year old rescue pony, Jettie, has been making huge poops more and more frequently. I am wondering if it could be teeth... not chewing as well and therefore making big BIG poops. I have never seen manure like this. It's about the size of an small to medium eggplant or large potato. What could this could be a symptom of? Yes, she seem sluggish but she always does... she's an old old old pony I found abandoned in a pasture eating plums off a tree about 5 years ago. Yes, she is foundered but it's managed. Does not test for Cushings but looks to have it, anyway.
Thanks

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO

Email  
Apr 4th, 2011 - 4:01 PM
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