Needs more energy but wanting to avoid nuttiness!

Dusty85

Dusty85

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The dreaded question!!

As in the title really. 16.2hh TB who I event low level. Ridden x5-6 most weeks. Recently dropped a little weight from 560 to 530kg and feels a little lazy in all phases which isn't really normal for him.

Currently fed;
X1 Stubbs scoop Alfa a with x1 scoop 'hacking mix' in the morning and the same in the evening but 500g topspec comprehensive balancer with1/2 scoop mix and glucosamine added in. Ad lib good quality haylage and turnout from 9am til 3pm.

He has been on this for 18+ months but I suppose he's doing more work now than he has in the past.

I suppose I'm after suggestions about what up add in/change to give him more engery but that doesn't blow his mind!!! In the mean time I've just increased the Alfa a.

Do you think adding a straight in or changing the mix? The only reason I say add a straight rather than change the mix is that as I'm on full livery the mix is included in the price, if I change it it will be me covering the extra!

Sorry it's a bit long but any thoughts or suggestions appreciated!!!
 
If he has recently dropped weight and energy levels, have you had bloods taken? Liver or kidney function, a mineral deficiency, heart or circulation problems could all present those symptoms.
 
Hey all sorry for the delay; mega long shift!
Thank for your advice.

JillA: I did think about bloods but last weekend I was away so he didn't get ridden for 3 days and he felt like his normal self when I schooled him, which makes me think its more of an input/output energy thing. But if he doesn't come right after adding in more energy feed then that's my next step.

Wench: I'm a bit reluctant to add in more topspec as it will start getting pricey!

MonkeyBum: I did talk to the feed place about the Alfa a oil but my yard don't stock it so again it would be an added cost with not a great deal extra in terms of energy. Good for weight gain though.

I've been talking to one of my (very experienced) friends today and think I've reached a potential solution.

My yard stock A&P calm and condition (or whatever it's called !) do I will change the standard pasture/hacking mix (Light work horses) for that as it has a higher calorie count plus may help with weight. I'm also going to go up on the amount of Alfa a.
Ill review this frequently and may add in straight oats in very small doses to see what response I get.

What do people think? Thanks again!
 
How about adding some unmollassed beet pulp? Cheap as chips, useful extra calories and digestible fibre but with a low glycemic index and an energy ration not far off oats. Then you don't need to change your mix.
 
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