Can high levels of sugar cause excitability?

Yes, although compound and fibre feeds generally contribute very little sugar to the total diet when fed at the recommended ration. In fact, forage is the largest source of sugar in any horse’s diet, even in horses without access to grazing. However, high levels of energy and sugar in spring grass may well contribute to more exuberant behaviour in some horses and ponies!

What should I look for when choosing feeds for an excitable horse/ pony?

Although diet is just one of many factors that can affect behaviour, feeds high in cereal starch can certainly exacerbate excitable temperaments. Start by avoiding all mixes and look for fibre based feeds containing less than 15% starch initially. When additional calories are required, feeds high in oil provide a sympathetic alternative to cereal starch.

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FAQs

Top 10 FAQ’s Sugar and Molasses Balancers Forage Laminitis Feed Allergies Excitability Other

Q:

Can high levels of sugar cause excitability?

A:

Yes, although compound and fibre feeds generally contribute very little sugar to the total diet when fed at the recommended ration. In fact, forage is the largest source of sugar in any horse’s diet, even in horses without access to grazing. However, high levels of energy and sugar in spring grass may well contribute to more exuberant behaviour in some horses and ponies!
Q:

What should I look for when choosing feeds for an excitable horse/ pony?

A:

Although diet is just one of many factors that can affect behaviour, feeds high in cereal starch can certainly exacerbate excitable temperaments. Start by avoiding all mixes and look for fibre based feeds containing less than 15% starch initially. When additional calories are required, feeds high in oil provide a sympathetic alternative to cereal starch.