Why is alfalfa bad for horses?
The high calcium content of alfalfa causes an imbalanced calcium/phosphorus ratio if not corrected by other feeds or supplements. Most adult horses seem to tolerate this, but it’s not ideal for pregnant mares and growing horses.
What is alfalfa hay used for?
Its primary use is as feed for high-producing dairy cows, because of its high protein content and highly digestible fiber, and secondarily for beef cattle, horses, sheep, and goats. Alfalfa hay is a widely used protein and fiber source for meat rabbits.
Does alfalfa cause inflammation in horses?
THREE RISKS OF FEEDING TOO MUCH ALFALFA TO HORSES: Horses that are on high protein diets become overly acidic which can cause inflammation in various body systems including the joints and hooves. In addition, alfalfa can overstimulate the pituitary gland.
Can I feed my horse only alfalfa hay?
No, not if fed properly. Alfalfa’s availability and nutrient content make it a logical choice of feed. However, the key is to select alfalfa hay with moderate protein content and provide additional supplements to your horse when needed.
How often should I feed my horse alfalfa?
In general, feed hay twice a day; limit alfalfa to one-half of your roughage; and feed grain according to body condition and use of the horse. Always have your hay analyzed so you can match the grain supplementation to your horse’s needs.
Can horses eat too much alfalfa?
It can be detrimental, however, to horses with impaired kidneys or liver. “In California there are many cutting, reining, and other performance horses that eat a lot of alfalfa hay (due to its wide availability) and balancer pellets, and that’s their entire diet and they do fine.”
Can a colicky horse have hay?
Your veterinarian will likely recommend that you don’t feed your horse grain or hay until they pass manure and the colic resolves. Feed may add to an impaction. Grazing on a small amount of fresh grass may help stimulate motility.
Does wet hay cause colic?
New hay, no matter how moist, should always be introduced slowly because research has shown that changes in hay, even when the type remains the same, can increase a horse’s colic risk for up to three weeks.