brightlights
Well-Known Member
I have recently brought my horses home after an extended period on livery. I have kept them on the same feed/concentrate from that program but have had to switch them from hay to haylage. I introduced the haylage slowly to them at livery for a good week before their move, and haven't seen any obvious signs of stomach upset, so thought I was doing well. But what I have noticed is that most of them have become hay dunkers!
My farrier mentioned that something to do with the fermentation and the moisture and/or sugar content of haylage would be harder on their kidneys than hay.
I do think they're urinating more frequently. I'd thought that was just to do with the weather warming up but am now wondering if it's the haylage. Has anyone else had this experience? Is this a known thing?? I don't feed it ad-lib but do probably feed more than the suggested 5-8kg I've seen recommended. My thought was to reduce the concentrate slightly and make sure they have just about as much forage as possible. Huh. Am I doing more harm than good?
My farrier mentioned that something to do with the fermentation and the moisture and/or sugar content of haylage would be harder on their kidneys than hay.
I do think they're urinating more frequently. I'd thought that was just to do with the weather warming up but am now wondering if it's the haylage. Has anyone else had this experience? Is this a known thing?? I don't feed it ad-lib but do probably feed more than the suggested 5-8kg I've seen recommended. My thought was to reduce the concentrate slightly and make sure they have just about as much forage as possible. Huh. Am I doing more harm than good?