Hay (or hay substitute) forms a large part of most horse’s diets throughout the winter months and, in some cases, is the only real additional feed that a horse or pony receives. There are different ways to feed hay, depending on the horse and his requirements…

Steamed
Steaming hay can significantly reduce dust and mould spores.  The benefits of steaming hay are similar to steaming vegetables in that none of the nutrients are lost in the steaming process. Steaming hay, therefore, not only retains the valuable nutrients of the hay but helps prevent respiratory problems. For this reason, it’s most popular with owners of horses with compromised respiratory systems, and competition horses might also be fed steamed hay too, to help facilitate optimum performance.

Soaked
Soaking the hay reduces the sugars in the hay and can be useful for horses suffering from laminitis and insulin resistance.  Soaked hay needs to be fed as soon as possible after soaking to stop it getting mouldy.  Hay needs to be soaked for the correct amount of time as soaking for too long can make it less palatable and decrease its fibre content and remove valuable nutrients. Soaking can also reduce dust and mould spores, so it’s another option for horses with respiratory issues.

Hay nets
Hay nets, whether made with dry, wet or steamed hay,slow down consumption so that the hay lasts longer…in fact, you can get haynets with really small squares to further slow intake. Grazing constantly means the horse is less likely to develop digestive problems but using a net means the horse eats less so is less likely to eat too much! Another benefit is that hay is less likely to be wasted through being trampled on.  However, eye level eating is not ideal for horse’s neck muscles; horses are designed to eat with their heads down. Floor level hay nets are available, however.

Floor
Horses naturally need to eat in a downward position that stretches their back and neck muscles. Eating in this position also has dental advantages; the food can be ground properly and mixed with saliva. The horse can eat slowly in its natural eating position meaning digestion is better. Finally, the horse feels in a completely relaxed and natural state when eating from the floor as he can see all around himself.  This can result in behavioural benefits.

There are a number of reasons why horses may have poor quality hooves. 
These include:

• Genetics
• Bad farriery
• Dietary reasons
• Their environment
• The work that they do

Certain nutrients are said to be of use in helping a horse’s hoof growth.  These include the following:

• Biotin – this is a water soluble B vitamin which is one of the most popular ingredients found in supplements for hoof growth and health. It is manufactured naturally when fibre is broken down in the large intestine.  The horse may not produce enough of this naturally if their diet is lacking in certain foods.
• Zinc – this is needed to support healthy hair, skin and hooves. It supports healthy keratin growth (keratin is the material found in the outer layers of the hoof).  If the keratin is not formed correctly, the hoof is brittle and soft.
• Calcium – this is essential for bone development and attachments in the hoof horn.
• Methionine – another nutrient recommended for hoof growth and quality.  It is a sulphur containing essential amino acids.

Other nutrients associated with hoof quality are:

• Manganese
• Copper
• Vitamins A and E

The overall condition of the horse and the quality of his diet are also important when it comes to supporting hoof health and condition. If you need advice relating to the condition of your horse’s hooves, speak to you farrier and also consider calling any of the free feed helplines as the nutritionists at the various companies will be happy to offer advice.

Senior horse mix provides non-heating calories for the older horse in a digestible format.  As horses get older, their ability to gain the full benefit of the nutrients in their feed decreases.  Muscle development and condition can also deteriorate and a little extra help may be needed. Senior horse mixes are generally high fibre, high oil and low in sugar and starch.  Low levels of sugar and starch are especially important in elderly horses in order to keep the hindgut healthy and avoid loose droppings. Most senior mixes can be dampened for easier eating if the horse struggles to chew.

Senior horse mix may contain the following ingredients:

• Quality protein - to promote improved muscle tone and protect against muscle wastage.
• Oil –to keep the horse’s coat healthy.
• A prebiotic – in order to promote gut efficiency.
• Antioxidants – for immune support.
• Glucosamine and/or MSM – to help support joints.
• Vitamin C  - to maintain healthy lungs.
• Vitamin E and Selenium –to neutralise the free radicals that may speed up ageing.
• B Vitamins – to compensate for decreased production in the hindgut.

Senior horse mix may also be high in calories in order to protect against weight loss in the older horse.  However, low calorie feeds are also available for the older and more overweight horse.  Feeds that are lower in calories may also contain less cereal starch and sugar in order to control behaviour.