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
Hi Cristine,
You're correct -- ponies are different -- they need less fat in their diet and they all tend to be insulin resistant. The free choice, concept, however, is the same, as long as the hay you're feeding is low in %NSC (less than 12% and preferably lower than that) and also low in calories -- no more than .89 Mcals/lb.
How 'bout using a slow feeder -- several of them, scattered about, will help him to eat less while moving around to get to it.
And exercise is so important -- even 10 minutes a day of walking.
You're doing a wonderful job! 
Best wishes,
Dr. Getty
Where are you from? Waverly, Ohio