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Well, I don't think it's wrong per se, it's just different. I think that horses can be perfectly healthy with the complete feeds they have now. They have the hay component built into them, along with the vitamins and minerals that are specifically balanced to that particular hay that's mixed in to that particular batch of feed. Then, any additional hay that they get is completely superfluous as far as their nutrition is concerned. It just keeps their gut happily working along. And of course a pasture/hay only diet is good too, as long as you do what you say and have an analysis done of your hay so that you know what is lacking. Most people don't go to the time or expense of that though, or they aren't able to buy a year's supply of hay at a time to make testing worthwhile. They just suplement with a general supplement and take a buckshot/hope-this-is-what-I-need approach. And that usually works out fine too. It's only when it doesn't that we hear about it

Most people don't go to the time or expense of that though, or they aren't able to buy a year's supply of hay at a time to make testing worthwhile. They just suplement with a general supplement and take a buckshot/hope-this-is-what-I-need approach. And that usually works out fine too.

That's me to a T. I buy hay a couple weeks at a time. It's mostly from the same supplier, but still... I could go in next time and they could have different hay. Usually good hay, but it would be hard to keep testing it.

OK - from your link and your discussion, I guess I’m learning that the dry COB I’m feeding is really high in NSC, even though there’s no molasses.

So let’s get back to quantity. I’m only feeding a little bit... like enough to get Bay’s pills in him and make the others think they’re getting something. Bay and Cyn get a 1 lb coffee can full morning and night and the pony gets a short half.

So with those amounts in mind, you think I should still switch to something like the strategy? Are they getting enough protein?

They just suplement with a general supplement and take a buckshot/hope-this-is-what-I-need approach.

Yes, and unless you really know what your horse needs, you are just wasting money.

Becky and Hair, I only have about 3 acres fenced for pasture. It is more for the "grazing needs", exercise and fresh air. But, we try and feed a good quality hay. You might not always know the nutritional value. Hay that is somewhat green, smells good and is free from a weeds, dust,mold and insects. Time of cutting is very important also. Why waste your time and money buying a cheaper quality of hay? Spend a little more and get good hay.

Situations vary from across the Country. The drought in many areas have made it difficult to find good hay. This year, the kids baled hay off of the ex's field. It's crap! Lots of weeds and wide stem grasses, the horses will not eat. The stalls are hard to keep clean, with all the wasted hay. To me, it was a waste.

Becky, I am not disagreeing with how you keep your horses, they look great! I just disagree with your reasoning about feeding hay. Even though you feed a complete feed, you did put out round bales to occupy them, not for any nutritional value. I am just a firm believer in feeding good hay.

Hair, your situation is difficult, because of lack of storage.