Case Study: Stressy Horse

Blue is a 10 year old Dutch Warmblood gelding who was purchased by his owner Heather three years ago.  Since then they have been competing at novice and elementary level affiliated dressage.  Heather contacted the Dengie Feedline for feeding advice as Blue could be quite "stressy" and she was concerned that this could become more of a problem as Blue's workload was going to become less consistent due to the fact that she was expecting a baby.  Blue's original diet was based on a combination of low energy mix and nuts alongside ad-lib haylage with turn out several times a week.

Suggested Ration:

  • Alfa-A Lite   1kg (approximately 2-3 large round scoops) per day
  • Alfa-Beet  0.5kg (dry weight = third of large round scoop) per day
  • Natural Vitality Performance Vits & Mins 1.5 measures per day

Alfa-A Lite combines pure alfalfa with a low sugar coating and mint flavouring and has a calorie level comparable to a horse or pony cube.  Alfa-A Lite was suggested as it provides enough energy to maintain Blue's bodyweight and support the work he is doing but, as it is based on "slow release" energy sources, is less likely to contribute to over-exuberant behaviour.  This would become increasingly important as days off or lighter work become more frequent.

To provide additional "slow release" energy and increase water intake when stabled, Dengie Alfa-Beet, which combines alfalfa and unmolassed sugar beet was also suggested.  Dengie Natural Vitality Performance Vits & Mins was also included to provide a balanced ration.

Heather is really pleased with Blue since he has been on the new ration and describes him as being "more relaxed in his approach to life".  She also feels that although he has plenty of energy for the work he is asked to do, there is no need to worry if she occasionally has to miss one of Blue's exercise sessions due to juggling work commitments and looking after her baby, Katie.  Since changing the ration Heather and Blue have progressed to competing in medium classes and working at advanced level at home.