Stud balancers v 'usual' balancers?

[TequilaMist]

Went to restock feed today.Shop assistant said new balancer about £8 cheaper than usual low-cal.Had a look at back and tbh not too much difference apart from protein low-cal 16%,stud balancer 32% quite a big difference.
Now I have a real memory prob but something niggling in there somewhere

Understand the need for proteins in young growing horses and to watch with older horses but what are the problemsif given to a 10 yr old warmblood mare in light/medium work (well medium once snow goes)
Thanks

 

[Adina]

I'd love to know the answer to this too!

 

[MistletoeMegan]

Excess protein intake is linked to azoturia, hyperthyroidism and kidney problems. However, it is the level of excess and the timescale that determines the development of such issues and their severity.

Some people do feed stud balancers to adult, working horses without issue but I would be looking out for excess urination and dehydration, as well as 'protein bumps' in the coat.

Tbh, if you're looking for a saving on the balancer cost then I would compare the nutritional analysis with that of an ordinary vit+min supplement and any feed your horse is currently having and see if there's much of a difference (I'd be guessing not!).

If you do then decide to feed a stud balancer, phone the manufacturers helpline and they will let you know an appropriate amount.

 

[Spyda]

I use Baileys' Stud Balancer myself and at less than 1kg per day for my 16.1 WBxTB, fed with Hi Fi and good quality forage I find it doesn't exceed her protein intake and gives excellent results. She looks stunning.

Not sure what "stud" balancer your supplier suggested, but have you looked at Dodson & Horrell's Sure Grow pellets? They are cheaper still than the Baileys' and are stated to be suitable for feeding to older horses as well as growing youngstock?