Instant Energy For The Ageing Competition Horse

Ivy contacted Saracen through our Feed Advice Form service in November. She was looking for advice for her 14.1hh, Connemara, Smokey Diamond who was eventing at novice level. Smokey is entering into his veteran years so Ivy was looking for something to make sure he was getting all of his daily requirements as well as hopefully boosting his energy levels slightly.

One of our Registered Nutritionists, Rachel, received the Feed Advice Form and put together a ration for Smokey that was based on Competition-Fit Mix. Rachel says…

‘When feeding any horse, regardless of age and workload, the most important thing is to ensure they are receiving a balanced diet. Although Ivy was feeding Smokey a few different feeds when she contacted us for advice the diet had got a bit overcomplicated. We often find that bringing things back to basics really helps to ensure a balanced diet is being provided, reducing the risk of either under or over fortifying the diet, as well as making feed time a much simpler affair all round! As Smokey was already being fed a diet with a cereal inclusion and Ivy felt he needed a bit more energy I suggested feeding him Saracen Competition-Fit Mix. This feed provides a good level of fibre and oil to support stamina levels but the main emphasis is on providing fast release energy from cereals for improved ‘off the leg’ energy, which is exactly what Ivy felt Smokey was lacking. The other great thing about the Competition-Fit Mix is that, due to the performance level vitamin and mineral package, it provides a great level of key nutrients, and especially anti-oxidants, that are key to helping to support older horses that are still in a regular work routine and are out competing.

The other part of the diet I was keen to improve upon was the forage element. Smokey was having daily turnout on good quality grass and was maintaining his weight well, but was only being fed a small amount of hay overnight. Most of us know that feeding plenty of hay is important for maintains good digestive health but it’s important not to forget that it also provides energy for work. I was sure that if we could increase the amount of hay Smokey was being fed this would have a positive effect on his energy levels helping to support the work he was doing.’

Rachel’s suggested daily diet for Smokey:

• 1.3kg Competition-Fit Mix
• 1 - 2 scoops of good quality chaff, ie. Dengie Performance Fibre
• 1 – 2 tablespoons sale
• Minimum 5kg hay overnight

After six weeks on this diet, Rachel got back in touch with Ivy to see how Smokey was getting on. Ivy replied to say…

If you would like some nutritional advice for your competition horse or pony to ensure they have the power to perform, please fill out our feed advice form or contact our nutritional helpline on 01622 718487.