How to feed a breeding stallion

Over the course of a lifetime, equine feeding schedules need to be changed and adapted as a horse ages and its requirements change. This is especially true when it comes to breeding stallions – so read this guide to learn more about how to set an effective equine nutrition plan for a stallion during the breeding process.

Weight loss
During the breeding process, a stallion can shed a lot of weight. Ensure weight loss does not become a serious problem by planning a specialist nutrition programme to keep the horse’s body weight at a healthy level.

Separation
To implement a specialist feeding programme, it’s important to separate a stallion from the rest of the herd – this will allow you to implement individual equine feed and supplements that can combat the unique weight challenges that occur during the breeding season.

Quality of feed
Pay special attention to not only the quantity of the feed provided but also the quality – during breeding, a stallion will need to consume high quality hay (and alternative feed) to ensure all the essential nutrients and minerals needed to maintain a healthy balanced weight are consumed.

Supplements
Top up a stallion’s diet with supplements as and when necessary. Hydration levels will also need to be monitored closely – if you believe the stallion is suffering from a deficiency of salt, install extra salt blocks into the stall or stable.

Competition
Finally, never put two individual stallions together during feeding. At this time, the horse’s behaviour can become erratic, so it’s best to keep close contact between stallions to a minimum to avoid any competition breaking out in a pen.

Photo by Jude

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