Feeding The Eventer

[Deano645]

Hello,

I'm after some unbiased feed recommendations.

We have a 15.1hh Connie gelding, 11 years old and eventing at 90 level at the moment, did BE100 in his previous home. He weighs 500kg and a good doer but he lacks energy. He recently had hocks and SI joints injected after discovering arthritis, but our vet is confident he can continue to compete.

Currently he is on Pure Feeds Working and Feedmark Bestflex, daughter started on him when she was 11 so didn't want him too much for. They've been doing very well together but 2 years on we feel he needs a bit more zing as he is naturally very laid back shall we say!

Has anyone got any recommendations on what you feed? I was considering Pure Performance but looking at other options.

TIA

 

[ihatework]

It’s quite difficult to change their default nature with feed alone.

The best thing for what you want is to have him as slim and fit as possible and to train him to be sensitive/responsive to the leg. Varying stable routine can help too - sometimes the sluggish ones are a bit peppier if they are off grass for a few hours before working.

Feedwise - it might be worth trying a slightly higher starch ration / oat based feed but be careful not to increase overall calorie intake if he is a good doer. Top spec turbo might be one to trial

Also don’t underestimate how much of an impact low grade pain can have on desire to go forwards, so keep in mind the arthritis.