am I feeding too much protein?

[WoodysMum]

Just a bit concerned Im feeding too much protein (which can lead to digestive problems/ulcers? and my boy has suspected ulcers

)

He is 17.


Fed on:

Alfabeet (speedibeet/alfalfa)
TopSpec Comp powder (the higher protein of the supplements they do!)
Glucosamine/MSM
Ad lib haylage
The grass he's turned out on is quite rich in the autumn/spring when it has a flush, and his glands near his eyes swell up sometimes
Linseed meal/fenugreek (again high in protein!)
TopSpec CoolCondition cubes for his stable toy
Hi-fi lite in a big bucket overnight


Is this ok? Or too much protein?

 

[TGM]

It is high grain, high starch, low fibre diets which are linked to ulcers, rather than the protein content. In fact, alfafa chaffs (which are high in protein) are recommended by some experts on ulcers, as they are thought to act as a buffer in the horse's gut.

ETA: Are you feeding the Top Spec Comprehensive Supplement or the Top Spec Comprehensive Balancer - it is not quite clear from your post? The Balancer is 25% protein, whilst the Supplement is only 4% protein. If you are feeding good quality haylage and an alfafa product, then the Balancer is probably unnecessary for your needs and is a bit of a waste of money!

 

[stencilface]

Does his wee smell really strong? I had mine on weight gain mix when I got him and his wee stank due to all the protein - nice!

 

[WoodysMum]

Thanks

Its the supplement since the balancer was working out far too expensive!

It can smell a little yes, like mare urine!

 

[Pep12]

As the other poster said it is too much starch and not enough fibre that causes ulcers and not protein. Your ration doesn't look like too much protein to me. They will indeed pee out what they don't actyually need

 

[cellie]

I am thinking of changing to to supplement instead of balancer .Can you tell me how long 3kg tub lasts .Thanks sorry to hijack your post
Have you thought about ringing top spec I found them really helpful,might be doing the same re powder supplement