Strategies to Reduce Colic in Horses
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Text-only version of “Strategies to Reduce Colic in Horses”
On average, 1 out of every 10 horses will suffer from a bout of colic each year. Managing your feeding program can help reduce colic in horses.
Three abrupt changes to avoid:
- Feeding a meal (concentrate or forage) earlier or later than normal.
- Making an abrupt change in the type or amount of hay, concentrate or supplement fed.
- Suddenly changing the type of pasture grass, or the time allotted for grazing.
Eight easy feeding tips to reduce digestive upset:
- Provide an unlimited source of clean water at all times.
- Feed a consistent diet and make all changes slowly (over 7 to 10 days).
- Feed a high-quality fiber (such as hay) and offer it free choice whenever possible.
- Feed concentrates as small, frequent meals 2, 3 or even 4 times per day. Do not feed more than 4 pounds of concentrate per meal.
- Maintain a consistent daily feeding schedule.
- Keep all feeds and supplements in a horse-proof container or locked feed room to avoid accidental overeating.
- Never feed tainted or moldy concentrates, hay or supplements.
- Supplement your horse with high-quality probiotics during times of stress or after antibiotic use.
Multi-pronged approach that supports complete GI tract health; reduces the risk of gastric and colonic ulcers, digestive upset, and hindgut imbalances.