Myth: The horse’s stomach should be empty while exercising to avoid digestive upset. We don’t feel comfortable exercising after a large meal and we therefore assume that our horses don’t either. But define a “meal.” We generally think of feeding a commercially fortified feed -- something that comes out of a bag. Or we may feed a meal of oats along with supplements. And, you’re right… this type of meal that is low in fiber and high in feedstuffs that provide starch, protein, and fat, should not be fed immediately before exercising your horse. But forage should! It’s just the opposite – restrict forage before exercise and you’ll produce, rather than avoid, digestive upset. Here’s why… The horse’s stomach, unlike our own, secretes acid all the time – that’s right – it never stops. Chewing produces saliva, a natural antacid. But left without anything to chew, the acid will accumulate in the stomach and settle along the bottom (as water would in an empty jar). The lower portion of the stomach (the glandular region) has a protective mucus layer, but the upper squamous region has no such lining. Ask your horse to move, and the acid sloshes around, reaching the unprotected area, leading to an ulcer. And, as the acid flows through the small intestine, cecum, and large colon, it can cause further damage along its wake, potentially leading to colic and ulcerative colitis. Allow your horse to graze on hay or pasture before asking him to move – 15 minutes ought to do the trick. You’ll not only keep him healthy, but he won’t be in physical and mental discomfort, making him more relaxed and receptive. Getty Equine Nutrition, LLC -- Juliet M. Getty, Ph.D., Horse Nutritionist
Posted on: Sat, 10 May 2014 12:40:47 +0000
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