The incidence of wood chewing has been reported to increase with horses fed processed feeds. Fiber is a crucial component of a horses diet and plays a vital role in maintaining optimal digestive health. Another common feed option for performance horses is grain-based feeds, such as oats, corn, or barley, as well as commercial sweet feeds. This may include grass hay, grains, or commercial feeds, as well as supplements to meet specific nutritional needs. Grazing horses on grass and legume mixed pastures Storing alfalfa hay properly is also crucial to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Alfalfa hay is one of the most popular types of horse feed, but many misconceptions and myths surround it. It has since been developed into various cultivars that can withstand a range of growing conditions. Alfalfa for Horses Nutritional Composition Forms of Alfalfa Benefits of Feeding Common Concerns When to Avoid Example Diets Alfalfa is a popular forage choice for horses and an ingredient in many equine feeds. Feeding Alfalfa to Horses: Pros & Cons of this Forage in the Diet Alfalfa pellets for horses benefits. I suggest consulting your vet before feeding alfalfa to a young horse. [5], Processing methods, such as raking during hay curing, can also affect leaf loss and nutritional value. The Relationship Between Equine Diet And Presentation Of Laminitis. Easier to chew and swallow - smaller, finely chopped, some molasses. Nutrient absorption: The fiber in alfalfa hay not only aids digestion but also improves nutrient absorption. This promotes healthy digestion and prevents issues like impaction or slow transit times, which can lead to discomfort and decreased performance. Alfalfa cubes are similar to long-stem hay in digestible energy, crude protein, and calcium content (Table 1). Feeding Alfalfa to Horses: Pros & Cons of this Forage in the Diet Gut motility: The fiber in alfalfa hay helps to maintain regular gut motility by stimulating the movement of food through the digestive tract. 13 Top Health Benefits of Alfalfa Tea #1 Potent Herbal By nindaratnasari July 12, 2017 Alfalfa is a kind of herbal plant which has great benefit for human health. Both are formulated and checked to ensure each batch has the correct amount of proteins, fats, and fibers, which are listed on each container. [32]. Ive always been a firm believer in the benefits of feeding my horses alfalfa hay. Also, horses diagnosed with HYPP (a genetic muscle disease prevalent in some quarter-horse pedigrees) should not be fed alfalfa or only in small amounts. Chopped alfalfa, also called green chop alfalfa, is cut and fed immediately before it has dried. I have raised some winning horses and had some that didnt make it as racehorses, so we trained them in other disciplines. Additionally, alfalfa has a high nutrient density, which means that horses can consume less of it while still receiving the . It typically contains more. Hay Selection for Horses - Kentucky Equine Research Researchers investigated the incidence of wood chewing in mature horses fed eitherlong-stem alfalfa hay or alfalfa cubes. . [18]. Made using only the finest UK grown grasses. [6]. Madalyn. This approach helps maintain a steady supply of energy and prevents digestive issues associated with large meals. Because of the high nutrient values for energy, protein, calcium, and vitamins, alfalfa cubes are very effective in feeding programs for broodmares and young growing horses. Horse owners should monitor the body condition of their horses and adjust the rations accordingly.2The concentrate in the example is a commercial grain ration with a minimum of 10% crude protein, 0.75% calcium, 0.55% phosphorus,and 2000 IU/lb of vitamin A.3Light work is considered to be activities such as Western and English Pleasure or Equitation riding.4Horse owners can select a grain mixture that has a minimum of 10% crude protein and a crude fiber level not greater than 10%.5Horse owners should use a commercial feed designed for foals. For Your Animals - US Alfalfa Fresh alfalfa hay contains enzymes which help break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The high levels of calcium in alfalfa can lead to the formation of enteroliths in the intestines of some horses. It also contains vitamin E and the B vitamins Thiamin, Riboflavin, Pantothenic acid, Biotin and Folic acid. All Rights Reserved. All Rights Reserved. Excess dampness in the body creates and environment that supports the growth of molds, yeast and parasites. It's an excellent source of high-quality fiber that produces slow-release energy, which helps maintain weight and promote healthy digestion. So it would be best for your horse, in this situation, to cut back on the alfalfa and substitute grass hay. [1], Below are averages and reported ranges of nutritional profiles over 200,000 legume hay samples analyzed by Equi-Analytical from 2004 2022: [2]. Equine Digestive Supplements | Equi-Force Energy production: Although carbohydrates and fats are the primary sources of energy for horses, protein can also be utilized as a source of fuel during prolonged exercise. Feed 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of US ALFALFA per 100 pounds of body weight daily. Ulcers are particularly prevalent in performance horses, affecting up to 100% of Thoroughbred racehorses. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. It also contains vitamin E and the B vitamins Thiamin, Riboflavin, Pantothenic acid, Biotin and Folic acid. Copyright 2022 Horse Racing Sense. It belongs to nuts families and easily is identified by its one meter long branch with tons of leaves. Philanthropy & Alumni If weight gain becomes an issue, consider reducing the amount of alfalfa hay and balancing it with lower-calorie forage options like grass hay to maintain an ideal body condition. Alfalfa hay is an excellent energy source for performance horses due to its unique nutritional composition and the following benefits: As a performance horse owner, the goal is to find the best possible feed options to ensure horses receive optimal nutrition. Alfalfa also contains valuable levels of the trace mineral cobalt, which enables the horse to synthesise vitamin B12 which is involved in iron absorption and energy utilisation. Nutritional value. In a three-year study of feeding alfalfa and clover though, horses . Note that every horse has unique needs and each feeding situation has practical limitations. FAQs About Horses and Alfalfa - The Horse Adding alfalfa cubes boosts the energy supply while serving as a carrier for calorie-dense oils. A healthy immune system is particularly important for performance horses, as illness can lead to decreased performance and longer recovery times. How Much Alfalfa Pellets To Feed A Horse Per Day? - Arew Horse Nutrition: Alfalfa hay for horses supports a healthy intestine and removes excess acids from the blood. Horses fed high-alfalfa diets have higher colonic mineral concentrations and lower colonic pH, which may explain the heightened risk of enteroliths. Forage contains many nutrients, and the fiber provided by forage is essential for the maintenance of the horse's gastrointestinal health. To manage this risk, I closely monitor my horses body condition and adjust their feed amounts accordingly. "The biggest benefit of alfalfa for horses is that it tends to be more nutrient-dense than most grasses when harvested at the same stage of maturity," says Martinson. Alfalfa cubes are a good option for underweight horses with dental issues, as they can be soaked to form a mash that does not require extensive chewing. Stay attentive to your horses needs and make necessary adjustments, and youll reap the benefits of alfalfa hay while maintaining your horses overall well-being. The Benefits of Feeding Alfalfa to Your Horse. In addition, elevated amino acids in the blood following alfalfa intake can stimulate insulin secretion, affecting laminitis risk. In addition to traditional baled alfalfa hay, Ive also explored the benefits of alfalfa pellets and cubes. The protein content is densest in the leaves, whereas the stems are high in fibre. Research with alfalfa cubes has shown that cubes are effective as the forage component in horse diets. This makes them a fantastic choice for horses who have breathing problems. Pure alfalfa hay is usually reserved for horses with high nutritional needs, as it would oversupply energy, protein, and minerals for many horses. Most horse owners I know feed their horses alfalfa daily. Protein is essential for horses as it helps to build and repair muscles. This helps to minimize the risk of injury and allows horses to recover more quickly between workouts and competitions. Feeding apple cider vinegar will help prevent stone formation if alfalfa is the only hay available. Ulcer scores were assigned on days 0, 21, and 42 based on a scale of 0 to 4, with 4 denoting severe ulceration. While alfalfa hay offers numerous benefits for performance horses, its important to be aware of potential concerns, such as the risk of weight gain. Feeding high protein hay like, As a side benefit, pellets, cubes and chopped. Especially horses, Ive been around them most of my life but I am always learning more and enjoy sharing with others. Cubes typically only 15-16% guarantee. [16], Additionally, alfalfa can be a good option to meet caloric needs while avoiding excessive concentrate intake. Protein plays a critical role in several aspects of their overall health and performance: Feeding my horses alfalfa hay, which is high in protein, ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients to support their athletic demands. Benefits of Alfalfa for Horses. However, feeding alfalfa hay on its own may provide too much digestible energy, which can lead to a fast growth rate and increase the risk of developmental orthopedic disease. Alfalfa contains nearly three times as much calcium as grass, and as it is a plant, the calcium it contains is much more available to the horse than that from inorganic sources, such as limestone flour, which many supplements are based on. For example, one of my horses has to eat beet pulp in combination with alfalfa to maintain his weight. The leaf-to-stem ratio is higher in earlier growth stages; at this stage, the stems are lower in fibre. The addition of alfalfa to a feed provides excellent-quality protein, digestible fiber, digestible energy (calories) and calcium. The first cut often contains weeds and other grasses, and the alfalfa may have a high stem content. Adequate B vitamin intake is essential for performance horses to maintain their energy levels during training and competition. For help with designing the right feeding plan for your horse, submit their information online to receive free guidance from our equine nutritionists. A high-quality fiber source, such as alfalfa hay, supports the natural digestive process by providing the necessary roughage to keep the gastrointestinal tract functioning properly. Alfalfa and a Healthy Gastric Environment in Horses, Hot Blood, Warm Blood, Cold Blood in Horses, Possible Link Between Selenium and Cribbing in Horses, Steamed Hay for Horses: Protein Content Examined, Strangles in Horses: Survival of Causative Bacterium on Equipment, Fixtures, Laminitic Horses and Stress Hormone Profiles. Low in calories and for horses in light work. Adequate protein intake is essential for proper muscle development, ensuring that performance horses can handle the demands of their sports. [22] Submitting your hay for forage analysis is recommended to determine NSC content. Effect of replacing part of concentrates with pelleted alfalfa on squamous gastric ulcers in exercised trotters. To avoid these problems, it is recommended to gradually increase the amount of alfalfa hay over a period of 7-10 days, while simultaneously decreasing their current forage. Minimal consumption waste - nutritionists agree that horses can . All Rights Reserved. Most mature horses tolerate a calcium to phosphorus ratio of up to 9:1, while growing horses tolerate a ratio of 6:1 as long as phosphorus requirements are met. at the University of Florida studying Animal Science. Horses that consume alfalfa contaminated with blister beetle fragments or oils from the beetle may show signs of gastrointestinal or urinary irritation, including: [31]. If youre still on the fence about incorporating alfalfa into your performance horses diet, read on for valuable insights. A general guideline is to provide 1.5-2% of the horses body weight in forage, with a portion of that being alfalfa hay. There are some downsides to feeding some horses alfalfa hay. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C. In addition to its nutritional benefits, alfalfa can also . Alfalfa is also rich in vitamin k and bioflavanoids. Talk to your hay provider about the presence of blister beetles in their fields, especially if your hay is from the mid-western US. Horses must consume 0.15-1.5% calcium and 0.15-0.6% phosphorus. For performance horses that require additional energy and nutrients, alfalfa hay often proves to be the better choice to meet their specific nutritional needs. Concentrated fibre sources, soak to make mashes. Cube buyers always have nutrient information provided, as this product is sold with a nutrient guarantee. She did her masters degree at the University of Kentucky followed by a Ph.D. at Texas A&M. The conclusion reached was that the horses fed the cubed alfalfa ate all the feed provided, while the horses fed the long-stem hay wasted a portion of the feed provided. The alfalfa plant has a very low content of both starch and water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) which include simple sugars and storage sugars such as fructan. These beetles produce a toxin called cantharidin which can be deadly for horses. Horses in the control group were fed their usual diet of free-choice grass hay and pelleted concentrate, which provided 4.5 1.5 g of starch per kilogram body weight per day. It's also a great source of fiber that supports digestion, as well as being rich in essential vitamins and minerals for overall health. Look out for brown or grey spots in the hay which can indicate mold and avoid feeding this hay. Horse Nutrition: Pros and cons of Alfalfa as a horse feed By incorporating alfalfa hay into a horses diet, it is possible to provide them with a more balanced source of energy, protein, and essential nutrients while promoting better digestive health. Most horses love this leafy, green hay. Feeding suggestions for different classes of horses using alfalfa cubes.1. Adequate magnesium intake supports muscle recovery, reduces the risk of fatigue, and helps maintain a healthy nervous system in performance horses. Alfalfa pellets offer similar benefits to hay, with an even greater caloric value, making them a popular choice for top-fed horses. Horse Nutrition: Pros of alfalfa as a horse feed, Contains enzymes which aid in assimilation of protein, fats and carbohydrates, High in calcium, beta carotene, chlorophyll, vitamins and trace minerals, Horse Nutrition: Cons of alfalfa as a horse feed, Excess energy content and mineral imbalance not good for growing horses, Enterolith formation in the intestines of some horses, Overall the pros of alfalfa as a horse feed out weigh the disadvantages but its high nutrient content makes if unsuitable for most non working horses. Any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase. The alfalfa plant is rich in beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A in the body. [17]. If you ask most horses they will tell you that alfalfa is a wonderful horse feed. Following her graduate work, she accepted a position as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Kentucky with Dr. Chris Fry, studying skeletal muscle biology. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. NSC (starch and sugar) content is also higher in grass hay. Detoxifies the blood Horse Nutrition: Cons of alfalfa as a horse feed Too nutritious for non working horses Excess energy content and mineral imbalance not good for growing horses Enterolith formation in the intestines of some horses Alfalfa has developed a reputation as a forage that is not appropriate for metabolic horses. A:Nutrient-wise, alfalfa hay and alfalfa pellets are similar in content. The result of either processing method is alfalfa forage in a small package. Hay and pasture are the typical forage sources for horses, but when growing or harvesting conditions limit their availability, horse owners have to consider alternative forage sources. In contrast, baling at a higher moisture level maintains a higher nutritional value but increases the risk of mold growth and may require applying preservatives. [25] Additional factors such as a lack of pasture access could lead to enterolith formation. Feeding horses that do not require a high protein intake free-choice alfalfa can lead to excessive nitrogen excretion. Once its harvested and dried, its baled for storage until its ready to be used by farmers or horse owners. Alfalfa originates from the Mediterranean and southwest Asia. Chronic Respiratory Disease: Is There A Nutrition Link? Horse Nutrition: Alfalfa hay for horses is a very rich horse feed containing ample protein, beta carotene, chlorophyll and trace minerals. Role of Water Activity in the Spoilage of Alfalfa Hay, Impact of raking and baling patterns on alfalfa hay dry matter and quality losses, Yield, Forage Nutritive Value, and Preference of Legumes under Horse Grazing, Voluntary intake, digestibility, and subsequent selection of Matua bromegrass, coastal bermudagrass, and alfalfa hays by yearling horses, Digestibility, apparent mineral absorption, and voluntary intake by horses fed alfalfa, tall fescue, and caucasian bluestem, Effect of hay type on cecal and fecal microbiome and fermentation parameters in horses, Nitrogen Retention and Nutrient Digestibility in Geldings Fed GrassHay, Alfalfa Hay, or Alfalfa Cubes, Comparative Response of Horses and Sheep to Different Physical Forms of Alfalfa Hay, Growth and development of yearling horses fed eitheralfalfa or coastal bermudagrass: Hay and a concentrate formulatedfo, Prevalence and treatment of gastric ulcers in Thoroughbred racehorses of Korea, Evaluation of diet as a cause of gastric ulcers in horses, Effects of hydrochloric, acetic, butyric, and propionic acids on pathogenesis of ulcers in the nonglandular portion of the stomach of horses, Nutritional management of elite endurance horses, The effect of soaking on carbohydrate removal and dry matter loss in orchardgrass and alfalfa hays, Voluntary intake of four hay types by horses, A review of unlikely sources of excess carbohydrate in equine diets, The effect of diet on cribbing behavior and plasma beta-endorphin in horses, Abnormal behaviour of the horses in Tehrans riding clubs, Dietary Risk Factors and Colonic pH and Mineral Concentrations in Horses with Enterolithiasis, Risk factors for enterolithiasis among horses in Texas, Evaluation of dietary and management risk factors for enterolithiasis among horses in California, Dietary Management of the Insulin Resistant Horse, Plasma Amino Acid Concentrations of Horses Grazing Alfalfa, Cool-Season Perennial Grasses, and Teff. Alfalfa is a nutrient-dense forage containing crude proteins, calcium, and high-quality fiber, There are some downsides to feeding some horses alfalfa hay, we pay about twenty dollars for atwo-wire baleof alfalfa hay, horse eats two percent of its body weight in alfalfa, The best method is to feed alfalfa is as a supplement with grass hay, Alfalfa hay is one of the most popular types of horse feed, Alfalfa is also available in cubes and pellets. Alfalfa is not a good feed for growing horses as it will allow them to grow too rapidly and bone development can be affected by the imbalance of calcium and phosphorous. Horses fed to appetite consumed 17 to 25% more cubed alfalfa than long-stem hay. One of these, butyrate, is the energy source of the colonocytes (gut cells) themselves. Grass hays such as timothy, teff, orchard grass, or brome tend to be lower in protein and higher in neutral detergent fibre (NDF) than alfalfa hay. Your decision to feed alfalfa to your horse should be based on its need. Horse feeds are rarely (if ever) sugar-free, as even straw contains some sugar, but the very low sugar and starch content is a key alfalfa health benefit for your horse. Heavily pregnant or lactating mares, and young rapidly growing horses, benefit from alfalfa's high protein content. Drier alfalfa hay will tend to be dustier as the leaves are more likely to shatter. For most horse owners, 100% alfalfa cubes is the product most readily available. However, alfalfa cubes must be limit-fed, as voluntary intake is much greater forthe cubes than for long-stem alfalfa hay. By understanding the benefits of alfalfa hay and following appropriate feeding guidelines, you can give your horse the winning edge they need to excel in their sport. The cured forage is then baled and transported to the processing plant, where it is chopped and cubed. Timothy/Alfalfa blends). Making a sudden change in a horses diet can lead to digestive issues, such as colic or loose stools. However, it is not the alfalfa hay itself but rather the dust or mold content of any hay that can aggravate respiratory conditions such as heaves. Benefits of Alfalfa in a Horse's Diet - HorseHage Also known as lucerne, the fibre in alfalfa is a great source of slow-release energy which can be used for maintenance, work or even weight gain. endurance racing). Alfalfa Pellets vs. Cubes: What's Better for Your Horses? Please log in using one of these methods to post your comment: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. This may involve consulting with an equine nutritionist or veterinarian to develop a customized feeding plan that optimizes my horses performance while maintaining their overall health and well-being. DENGIE, aka Chopped Hay | The Equine Nutrition Nerd, POLICIES, PUBLICATIONS, PRESS and PRODUCTREVIEWS, Follow The Equine Nutrition Nerd on WordPress.com. Garrigus BuildingLexington, KY 40546859-257-2686, Students / Be diligent in selecting and storing alfalfa hay to ensure your horse receives the highest-quality feed that supports their performance and well-being. Alfalfa is also known to improve digestion and increase nutrient absorption. Cubes are not wasted to the same extent as long-stem hay even if fed on the ground. Alfalfa hay helps meet these increased energy needs. However, some horse owners hesitate to feed alfalfa due to concerns about its safety. High proportions of alfalfa in the diet (greater than 50 70% of dry matter) are associated with a risk of enterolith formation. The Pros &Cons: POLICIES, PUBLICATIONS, PRESS and PRODUCT REVIEWS. Alfalfa has many benefits for horses. All horses are at risk of developing gastric ulcers, but this condition is particularly prevalent in horses involved in training and competition. Horses who are overweight and not in work can gain additional weight and develop behavior problems relating to excess energy. She worked on several projects on the effects of supplements such as complexed trace minerals, probiotics, different combinations of vitamin E and selenium, and conjugated linoleic acid. However, most horses fed a high alfalfa diet do not develop enteroliths, so the higher risk may not be due to alfalfa consumption alone. Horses that work hard benefit from eating alfalfa because its a good protein source and replaces lost calories. Alfalfa cubes are made from dried, compressed alfalfa hay. Generally, alfalfa is a good hay to feed horses, but there are caveats: However, from a practical standpoint, its best to feed alfalfa hay mixed with grass hay. In general, the NSC content of alfalfa is lower than grass or cereal hays. In most cases the articles are focused on an holistic approach to health and management. Is Alfalfa a Wise Choice for Horse Feed? - Horse and Rider If you are interested in adding alfalfa to your horses diet but are unsure of how to balance it properly, you can submit your horses information for evaluation by one of our professional equine nutritionists. Some horses may experience weight gain or show signs of sensitivity to the richer feed. Identify gaps in your horse's nutrition program to optimize their well-being. The quality of alfalfa hay can significantly impact your horses health and performance. Horses readily eat legumes mixed with grass. As the fiber is broken down in the hindgut, it releases essential nutrients that can be absorbed and utilized by the horse. Alfalfa cubes can be used in feeding programs to replace a portion or all of the forage that horse owners would feed their horses. Benefits of Alfalfa. Dusty hay can be soaked or steamed to reduce respiratory irritants. In 17.5 pounds of grass, hay provides 15.75 mega calories of digestible energy, 14 pounds of crude protein, and 39 grams of calcium. Finding the right balance in a performance horses diet is essential. Also, its at its highest nutrient value when harvested early. Alfalfa is especially helpful for a hard keeper because of its high caloric value and horses love to eat it. At days 21 and 42, no significant effect of the diet on either healing or prevention of EGUS was detected. Horses in light to moderate work likely do not need alfalfa hay to meet their energy requirements, but they can tolerate small amounts. Sacate guarantees that feeding Alfalfa cubes to your livestock will provide them with not less than 15% protein, not less than 1.5% crude fat, and not less than 30% of the crude fiber that your horse requires. [24]. This is why it is recognised as a useful feed for horses and ponies prone to Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) as it helps to regulate acidity throughout the digestive tract. When it comes to fueling performance horses, Ive found that the nutritional advantages of alfalfa hay make a significant difference. For more information about Holistic Horse care check out Holistic Horsekeeping, This blog provides information based on my unique take on horse health and well being. [16], Researchers have found that diets containing alfalfa hay significantly decreased the number and severity of gastric lesions in horses. Alfalfa buffers stomach acid for up to 6 hours after it is consumed which makes it an ideal horse feed for working horses subject to stomach ulcers. Several studies have compared alfalfa hay with other hays such as Orchard, teff, wheat, and oat. These factors have less of an impact on horses performing short bursts of intense exercise (i.e. It can be seeded for pasture grazing but requires rotational grazing strategies because it is less tolerant to intensive grazing than grasses such as timothy or teff. It is also not a good idea to feed endurance horses too much alfalfa. [11]. Nutritionists suggest: Nutritionists sometimes recommend feeding alfalfa hay to help ward off EGUS. Alfa-A Original contains as much energy as a cool mix, meaning for many horses, there is no need to use cereal-based feeds at all. Madalyn Ward, DVM, Holistic Horse Care: How to Deal With the No Drug Rules for Horse Shows, Holistic Horsekeeping Newsletter April 2023, Avoiding Burnout Based On Your Horses Temperament Type, Holistic Horsekeeping Newsletter March 2023, Horsemans Health: How Essential Fatty Acids Benefit Your Heart, Holistic Horsekeeping Newsletter February 2023. [12]. Alfalfa benefits include energy without the starch Fibre is often referred to as structural carbohydrate which means that although it is made up of glucose just as other carbohydrates like starch are, the way in which the glucose units are linked together is different.
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