Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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All the best,
Dr. Getty
Hello Becky,
Thank you for your patience.
You can use a senior feed, but the percent fiber is typically too low to replace hay. I like the hay replacer by ADM Alliance with a 30% fiber content.
But I'm also wondering if there is something going on with her mouth or teeth that is keeping her from eating. It is unusual for a horse to turn away from alfalfa.
Also, you may want to have her blood tested to reveal any underlying health issues that could be interfering with her appetite such as liver or kidney problems.
Please keep me posted.
All the best,
Dr. Getty 
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse
She will not eat...beetpulp, any cubes, alfalfa or timothy pellets or bagged shredded hay...all soaked
I thought of trying TC senior, Would that be good for a horse with her problems? as a hay substitute?
Any other ideas?
Thanks, Becky
Where are you from? Waverly, OH
Hi Dr. Getty, The dealer for the ADM Alliance is 60 miles away
She has no problem eating and her appetite is good...she loves Alfalfa hay, she just does not want her hay wet....she turns her nose up at beetpulp.
She gets MSM, spirulina,vit. C and balanced minerals.
Do you know if steaming hay kills mold spores? What about after the steamed hay has dried?
Steaming hay is an option im looking into.
She had decided she would rather eat her wet hay cubes than starve but steaming hay may be an option.
Thanks, Becky
Where are you from? Central, NY
Hi Becky,
It is my understanding the steaming kills mold spores and as long as it is dried thoroughly, to prevent mold, it should be safe to feed.
Sounds like you have a plan!
All the best,
Dr. Getty
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse
She has no problem eating and her appetite is good...she loves Alfalfa hay, she just does not want her hay wet....she turns her nose up at beetpulp.
She gets MSM, spirulina,vit. C and balanced minerals.
Do you know if steaming hay kills mold spores? What about after the steamed hay has dried?
Steaming hay is an option im looking into.
She had decided she would rather eat her wet hay cubes than starve but steaming hay may be an option.
Thanks, Becky
Where are you from? Waverly, Ohio