Minerals
We generally think of minerals in any diet as a good thing. But it is possible for horses to get too much of a certain mineral. The most common culprits include fluoride, lead, and iron. If caught in time, most symptoms of poisoning from excess minerals are reversible. However, if the problem is not diagnosed, it can be deadly. Often, treating the problem of too much of a certain mineral isn’t cutting back on that mineral in the horse’s diet, it’s balancing it with other minerals. And, it’s wise to know what’s in the feed you’re already giving your horse, before adding mineral supplements, so you don’t throw things out of balance.
Grains
When we’re not sure our horses are getting enough energy and nutrition from hay or grass, we often supplement their diet with grain. But, it is possible to feed too much grain. Obesity is an obvious problem that comes with eating too much grain. Other problems can occur too. Horses that eat a diet high in grains but relatively low in hay or grass may be more prone to colic and ulcers. Their teeth may need extra attention because not chewing on grass or hay means they don’t get worn down by the silica in those feeds. And, horses who don’t get a lot of grazing, but get fed grain instead may become bored and more prone to bad habits like fence chewing, stall walking and weaving.
Vitamins
Like minerals, it’s possible for a horse to get too much of a specific vitamin. It’s almost impossible for a horse to get too many vitamins from a normal diet. It is possible to over supplement them, however. Excessive Vitamin B might happen because a horse is being given energy building injections. Or an owner might not give the right amount of supplements. So that’s why you should have your hay tested, and know what vitamins your horse is already getting so you don’t give the more than they need.
Grass
Can a horse eat too much grass? Yes, even though grass is the most natural diet for a horse, it’s possible for them to eat too much. This can lead to obesity, laminitis, and colic. Some horses will eat far more than they need. A sudden change from dry hay to grass, can cause laminitis.
Water
Horses need lots of clean water. The average horse drinks about ten gallons a day. They’ll drink less in cool temperatures and when they have good pasture. They may drink more when the temperatures are hot, or they are eating only hay. Usually, too little water is a problem with horses and they can become dehydrated. Dehydration can be dangerous in high temperature, during hard work or if they simply aren’t being given enough.
But, very occasionally, a horse may drink too much water. This is less common than drinking too little, but it does happen. One cause is similar to the habits of cribbing and weaving. It’s called psychogenic polydipsia. It’s most common in horses confined in their stall although it could be triggered by eating too much salt. Once started, it’s a hard habit to break. The best option is lots of turn out so the horse can get exercise and graze.
There are a few health problems that can cause excessive water drinking. Cushing's disease, glandular disorders, and renal failure may cause the horse to drink, and subsequently urinate large amounts.
Treats
It’s possible to feed too many treats to a horse. This can lead to obesity. And, always expecting to get a treat every time it sees you can make a horse pushy, and that can get dangerous for you. Feed treats sparingly, if at all.
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