PG . 45
Fibre is the number one requirement for a horse . Fibre has the largest variety and number of bacteria of any feed . Consuming fibre adds to a healthy gut microbiome . The more diverse the gut microbiome , the healthier the gut . Bacteria in the gut are responsible for many functions including metabolism , synthesizing vitamins , hormonal control , and digestion . The healthier the gut , the better the horse ’ s temperament and performance . Fibre also opens the gastrointestinal tract and promotes peristalsis .
Reduction in feeding costs is achieved when roughage , such as pasture and hay , forms the basis of the diet . Select grasses that are low in fructans and non-structural carbohydrates . Steer clear of pastures that were cultivated for milk or meat production in cattle including rye grass and clover . Fibre comes in many forms and selecting good natural fibre is important .
Lucerne is an excellent source of fibre , energy , protein , calcium , and vitamin D . Being a long-stemmed fibre , lucerne encourages chewing which promotes saliva . Saliva is an essential acid buffer in the stomach .
Oaten Hay can be fed alongside lucerne hay in equal amounts and will offset the high protein content of lucerne . Its disadvantage is that it is higher in energy than most horses require . Meadow Hay has some advantages and disadvantages . Unless you obtain results on feed tests , then you can ’ t be certain its nutritive value .
There is a great variance in protein , NSC , energy and nutritional value between different mixtures of meadow hays . Fussy and less hungry horses tend to pick through what they like and leave the rest . There is often some wastage involved . The best fibre to give a horse is native grass hay . It is nutritious and low in sugar .
2024 AQHA YEARBOOK ~ MAY / JUNE ISSUE