Question
My yearling (20 months old) was recently diagnosed with OCD lesions in both hocks. He is slightly ribby now, probably a 4 based on the body condition scorecard of 1-9. He is kept outside half the day and inside the other half. He is fed 7.5 lb (3.4 kg) of a well-fortified growth concentrate, 2 lb (1 kg) alfalfa (lucerne) pellets, and free-choice grass hay. He is also given a supplement for gastrointestinal comfort. Though I’d like to see him with a bit more condition, I understand it’s sometimes best to keep horses with growth problems slightly thin, as he is now. We are also a smidgen concerned about wobbler syndrome, and my vet is monitoring him for this. Can you tell me if his diet is appropriate?
Answer
Your yearling gelding’s current ration is appropriately meeting his energy and protein requirements, as well as his vitamin and mineral needs. It appears you are doing a good job at monitoring his weight for even growth. Most likely the osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and developmental issues were not a result of nutritional imbalances. Many times heredity and trauma can contribute to OCD.
It is important to keep an eye on his caloric intake, as you have alluded to. If you become concerned at any point with excessive energy intake, you may consider decreasing the amount of alfalfa pellets, as he is receiving proper fortification from feed and getting plenty of free-choice grass hay.
With your concern of wobbler syndrome and lack of fresh grass during the winter, I recommend adding a natural-source vitamin E supplement to his ration. KER offers a liquid vitamin E, a product called Nano•E, that is highly bioavailable and readily absorbed. Vitamin E is a key antioxidant that helps horses with neurological or neuromuscular problems. There’s very little vitamin E in hay and other preserved forages, so supplementation is key to optimal health, especially for those animals suspected of having neurological issues.
Splitting meals throughout the day is recommended to maintain optimal digestive health. Additionally, supplementation with buffering agents will help to reduce stomach acidity and balance the pH in the hindgut. RiteTrac is a dual-acting buffer that targets the stomach and the hindgut using unique time-released ingredients to aid in microbial functioning and nutrient absorption. Though RiteTrac is available only in certain areas, EquiShure is more globally available, including in the Southern Hemisphere. EquiShure is a time-released hindgut buffer that keeps pH from becoming too acidic, which can be a harbinger for colonic ulcers and associated problems such as inappetence, weight loss, and irritability.
