Temperament Remember you cannot change your horse’s personality through feeding. You can however help to make life easier for you both by ensuring you select the right type of feed with the correct type of energy sources. Hot Head - slow release energy from fibre and oils is perfect for horses with a naturally excitable character.
Slow Release Energy Provided through fibres and oils rather than cereals. Slow release energy foods are ideal for horses which require stamina for eventing and endurance and they are also suitable for horses with a naturally excitable temperament. Fast Release Energy Provided through cereal based foods as these are high in starch. Fast release energy foods are ideal for horses which need short bursts of energy and power such as show jumpers.
Cool and Calm - although it would be easy to assume that this character would require a fast release energy source it is
important to remember that energy and calories are the same thing, so feeding the lethargic and overweight horse more energy (calories) will only result in excess weight gain and therefore less ability to perform. It is important to look at fitness and condition, as well as energy source. Provide your horse with the right type of energy (calories) in order to suit his maintenance and performance requirements.
Vicki’s Nutrition Tip
Think ‘slow release energy for stamina and ‘fast release energy for short bursts of energy and power. Once your laid back horse is at an ideal body condition and is fit enough for the work expected of them, feeding a small amount of coarse mix or oats (handfuls) daily can provide them with some extra oomph, without laying down extra body condition.
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