Module 5: Performance Feeds
What is a performance feed?
Performance feeds are generally designed to provide horses with the higher level of energy (calories) needed for a harder working lifestyle. They also contain higher levels of quality protein to support muscle health, function and recovery. Increased nutrients support the immune and respiratory systems, which may be under greater stress and many will include ingredients to support optimal digestive function.
What types of horse would need a performance feed?
- Performance feeds are generally ideal for horses in medium to hard work.
- Those frequently competing and training at a lower level may also be requiring higher nutritional support.
- Hard working Pony Club ponies/ horses and those competing in endurance may also need increased energy and/ or nutrients.
- Hunters or team chase horses could also fit into the performance horse category.
Calorie caution
- Energy or ‘calorie’ requirements may vary considerably between individuals, even some horses in very hard work may need little concentrate feed if they have good quality, ad lib forage and/ or grazing.
- Performance feeds are formulated to be fed at the same feeding rates as many other compounds to supply a balanced diet. E.g. 3kgs a day for a 500kg horse but usually have higher levels of energy (calories), nutrients and protein required for harder work.
- Should a horse or pony not require the full recommended amount, the shortfall of vitamins and minerals should be supplied by a balancer or multivitamin to ensure the diet is still balanced.
Our Range
Stamina+ Cubes
Perform & Restore Mash
Performance Mix
Remember
- All changes in diet should be made gradually.
- The recommended amount of feed should be divided into meals of no more than 2kg for horses, less for ponies and foals.
- Advise customers to contact our friendly nutrition team for specific advice, especially for those prone to or suffering from nutrition related clinical conditions such as laminitis, PPID (Cushing’s syndrome) tying up, colic and gastric ulcers.
Congratulations
You have now completed Module 5: Performance Feeds and should have a basic understanding of when a performance feed should be fed.
You can now move onto Module 5: Senior Feeds.