Dynavena

Do I need to take any precautions when changing from one feed to another?

 It is best to introduce the new feed into the ration gradually, ideally over a one-week period.

 

What should I do during periods of drought when there is not enough forage available?

• It is very important to keep giving a minimum amount of hay every day, or failing this, straw (3 to 4 kg per day).
• Give more small meals of concentrates, preferably those whose incorporated cereals have been cooked.
• For horses who continue to have an intensivee level of activity, prefer energy sources in the form of fat to avoid an excessive intake of starch, which could lead to problems.

 

Why is fat good for horses?

Fats are naturally present in plants. They have 2 main roles:

• They provide essential fatty acids.
• They are a very efficient source of energy:

            1 kg of oil provides as much energy as 3kg of oats.

 

When it is hot, my horse doesn’t have much appetite. What can I do about it?

It is advisable to increase the number of meals given, ideally 3 to 4.

Other lines of action include:

• The presentation of the feed you give your horse: flaked feeds are generally more palatable. You might also add water to them.
• The digestibility of the starch contained in the meal: cooked starches are much easier for the small intestine to use, making the ration more effective.
• Giving refreshing meals (mash) once or twice a week.

 

Keep a close eye on your horse’s drinking!

Horses can drink between 40 and 60 litres of water a day when the weather is very hot.

The water should be neither too hot nor too cold; the ideal temperature is 15°C. Make sure that automatic drinking fountains are working properly and that the water is flowing at the correct rate. 

What does UFC stand for?

The UFC, or Unité Fourragère Cheval, is the unit used to describe the net energy provided by 1 kg of raw oats. Net energy is the energy that is actually available for maintenance and production (work, gestation, lactation, growth).

Energy requirements are therefore expressed in UFCs.