14. Offer Hay Free-Choice.
Howard likes to see horses get 1 to 2 percent of their body weight in hay each day. He gives free-choice hay to simulate pasture. "Horse are natural grazers," he points out. "Free-choice hay gives them something to nibble on, stimulates the gut, and helps their mental state."
And, because alfalfa is a higher-energy hay, he'll offer it with grass hay. During cold weather, he feeds alfalfa in the morning for energy, then gives grass hay at noon and again at night. When it's warm during the day, he offers grass hay in the morning and at noon, then gives alfalfa at the evening feeding, when temperatures drop.
15. Don't Overfeed Grains.
Most horses eat grain with relish, which makes horse owners happy to give it to them. But if your horse isn't in training or physically active, he doesn't need much grain.
If your horse is heavy, cut back on the grain, not the hay, says Howard. Some horses--particularly those that are inactive and overweight--may only need a cup of grain, mixed with any supplements you give.
TEN COMMANDMENTS OF HORSE MANAGEMENT
1. Follow a regular vaccination schedule. Work with your vet to determine what your horse needs for your area (or for areas he travels to), and when he needs it.
2. Introduce feed changes slowly. Adding supplements or changing feed too quickly can spark colic. A good rule of thumb is to introduce new feed gradually over two weeks.
3. Follow a regular feeding routine. Horses thrive on routines, and a regular feeding schedule will help ward off colic and stress.
4. Feed frequently. If you can't feed free-choice, divide the daily ration into as many feedings as possible--three or four if you can, and two at least.
5. Schedule regular visits with the farrier or trimmer. Keeping your horse's feet healthy means a "pedicure" every six to eight weeks.
6. Provide consistent dental care. Schedule appointments annually to have your horse's teeth checked and floated.
7. Manage pests. Flies and biting insects carry disease, and can stress your horse and make him miserable. Make sure you have a good fly management program in place (see "Buzz Busters," April '06).
8. Set up a deworming program. Work with your vet to determine appropriate dewormer for your area. In regions where the temps don't get cold enough to kill larvae and eggs, you may choose a daily wormer.
9. Provide clean water at all times. Horses need 8 to 10 gallons of water daily (or more, depending on how active they are and how hot it is) to stay healthy. Make sure tanks are clean and full, and use a water heater where water freezes.
10. Provide as much turnout as practicable. Horses need to move!
This article originally appeared in the January 2007 issue of Horse & Rider. For the latest thinking in cribbing management/prevention, see Whole Horse Q&A in the September 2010 issue.
