Advice on Feeding Barley?

[CosmicRider]

So, I got my first horse today (*woop*) and I'm feeding flaked barley (steam cooked) Would be great if anyone could tell me if this needs soaking? I know whole barley needs soaking overnight but just not 100% sure about this! Yes his previous owner fed barley! I am aware of the problems it can cause but it works very will with him, and to fill in nutrient gaps he is also fed beet pulp and a handful of chaff.
He's been on barley since the previous owners first got him, which was 7 years ago, and there have been no problems to date.

Yes, it is my first horse BUT please don't presume I'm a beginner! I've been riding for many years and spending time around them but the opportunity to get a horse has just opened due to me moving to a house with more land

Thanks for any advice!

 

[be positive]

The flaked barley is already cooked so it does not require soaking, whole barley needs to be cooked not just soaked as it is too tough for them to digest otherwise.
I guess the barley is to put on some condition, there may not be any obvious problems but it is not an ideal diet and once he has settled in with you it may be worth exploring a fibre based diet which will be more suitable for keeping the weight on and giving him all he requires to do his job.

 

[CosmicRider]

Thanks I'll change his feed soon!