Case Study: Fizzy and Fussy!

Porthos is a 16hh, 8 year old Dutch Warmblood that competes in riding club activities. Porthos’s owner Claire e-mailed the Dengie nutritionists feeds@dengie.com as she was unsure which feeds would be best for Porthos as he is a fussy feeder with a limited appetite for fibre, but he can also sometimes be too fizzy.

Like many owners of fizzy horses, Claire was using small quantities of a variety of different feeds rather than an appropriate feed at the recommended amount. This was largely because this was the only way she could tempt Porthos to eat. Porthos generally maintains his condition well but tends to lose a bit of weight at the end of the winter season, which also concerned Claire.

Suggested diet

  • Alfa-A Lite 1kg (Approx. 3 large scoops)
  • Fibremix Complement 1.5kg (Approx. 1 ¼ scoops)

Alfa-A Lite combines pure alfalfa with a low sugar coating and a mint flavouring and is ideal for tempting fussy feeders. With a calorie level similar to a pasture or cool mix/cube, Alfa-A Lite provides ‘slow release’ energy that should help Porthos to maintain condition without becoming too fizzy.

Fibremix Complement is a concentrated feed that is formulated to be fed in smaller quantities than traditional mixes and so suits horses with limited appetites. When fed at the recommended quantities no additional vitamin and mineral supplements are needed. Fibremix Complement also contains XP Triple Action, which is a combination of prebiotics, probiotics, and yeast that helps to aid efficient digestion and therefore promote overall improved condition. As Fibremix Complement is low starch and based predominantly on sources of 'slow release energy' it is also useful for fizzy horses.

Claire is happy with the new diet as Porthos is enjoying his feed and especially likes the Fibremix Complement, which she says smells almost like caramel! Claire mixes a small amount of Alfa-A Lite with the Fibremix Complement and then leaves the rest overnight in the stable with hay. This means Porthos has plenty of time to eat his feed and gives him a choice of feeds which suits his 'picky' nature.

For further feeding advice please contact the Dengie Feedline 0845 345 5115.