Soaked oats in the summer??????????

[Vickijay]

Hi,

I fed soaked oats to my mare in the winter when she wouldnt eat. I stopped a few months ago as she looked good and was eating other feeds.

Now the spring grass is coming through she has gone back to being anorexic (sp) again so I got her some more oats, as she thinks they rule!!!

I soaked some last night and by this morning they were a little bit bubbly.

Do I need to soak them for less now its warmer??? Should I be more worried about them fermenting (again sp!)

Thanks,

Vicki x

 

[Slinkyunicorn]

When its warmer (like now) you can get away with soakng them for 3 or 4 hours - if it is longer they will be fine - just make sure they are drained properly.

 

[Vickijay]

Will 3 or 4 hours be enough to soften them???

 

[Spyda]

Yes, 3 or 4 hours should soften them enough. If you're at all concerned, use warm water (not boiling or too hot though). Cover them well but ensure you feed them within 6 - 8 hours after carefully draining them. Should work fine