When it comes to adopting an off-the-track thoroughbred, one of the most common concerns is how to feed the horse. W we don't want our retired racehorse to get too "hot", and we want to enjoy riding them. So, how do we strike a balance between meeting all of their nutritional needs and maintaining a good rounded topline?
There are several excellent premixed feeds available, and sometimes the best solution is to keep things simple. Grains aren't always a terrible thing; it all depends on how much exercise your horse is going to get. A cold energy source is advised if you intend to use your OTT as a leisure horse, which does not require high quantities of energy. However, if you want to participate at a higher level, such as in eventing, polocrosse, or showjumping, you'll need more energy to keep up with the intensity. You should also consider your horse's current diet; you may need to gradually introduce new feeds while adjusting out the old to avoid upsetting their stomach and allowing them to transition from the high-energy diet.
The following are some points that may be useful in answering these questions, as well as some crucial topics to examine.
Grains - they include more soluble carbohydrates, which can help a horse warm up; however, this is dependant on your horse's specific needs and the amount of work they are doing. Sugars and starches will be quickly depleted if they require a lot of energy before they can alter their behaviour. However, if they don't put that energy to good use, it might lead to "Fizzy" behaviour or be stored as body fat. When it comes to feeding grains, micronized forms are the best because they create a lower response than unprocessed grains.
Because they are fermented in the hindgut, hay/chaff provide a slower release of energy. Lucerne hay, often known as chaff, is a high-protein, high-energy, and high-calcium food. Grass hay and meadow hay, if of adequate quality, are also excellent sources of protein and energy. The calorie and protein content of cereal grain hays and chaffs is slightly lower than the other two.
Oils - Oil is a refreshing source of energy that also aids in the improvement of coat condition. Ranvet's Grand Prix oil is a designed blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that provides a cool energy source for your horse.
Maintaining muscle mass and topline — This is more difficult in the OTT, but the importance of topline cannot be overstated. It aids in balance and rhythm, as well as muscle fatigue, strength, and support for the rider. The quality of protein in your OTT's meal determines whether or not they can maintain or build topline. Amino acids, which are found in proteins, are known to help with muscle repair and growth. Topline FX by Ranvet is a concentrated protein supplement that promotes topline growth when used in conjunction with proper activity. It has a low starch content and isn't meant to be used as an energy source, making it an excellent choice for your OTT. It will aid in the development and maintenance of muscle topline without overheating your horse.
Vitamins and minerals are normally obtained naturally from the feed your horse consumes, but for a variety of reasons, they may not receive the daily necessary quantity. Mineral and vitamin deficiencies can create a variety of issues, but they can be readily remedied by adding a vitamin and mineral supplement to their feed, such as Ranvet's Ration Balancer.
When establishing a diet for your Off The Track Thoroughbred, the most important thing to remember is to match your energy input to your energy output. This will help to keep your horse from becoming fizzy or hot. Be patient; everything will rely on your horse's specific wants and requirements, and nothing is certain. As you get to know your horse a little better, you may find that you need to check and alter your feed. If you have any worries, you can always seek guidance or have your horse's food examined to ensure they are receiving a well-balanced diet.