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avoid overfeeding (ponies are adapted to do well on very little);
feed plenty of fibre with minimal 'hard feed';
feed little and often - ponies are designed as 'trickle feeders';
make any changes in diet gradually to allow the friendly bacteria in
the gut time to adjust;
do not feed mouldy or frosted/frozen food - they can cause colic;
store food under cover and away from rats and mischievous ponies;
cut carrots lengthways to reduce the risk of choking (a round piece is
more likely to get stuck in the throat);
consider using a vitamin/mineral supplement or balancer;
if using sugar beet, remember to soak it at least overnight and
store it in a pony-proof place;
for ponies living out and sharing a field - place the hay in
piles well apart and always allow one extra pile to reduce
bullying and likelihood of getting kicked;
make sure fresh water is always available and break the ice
on water troughs;
use a weigh tape every fortnight to check for any weight
loss or gain and change the amount you feed accordingly;
in cold weather a rug may be more suitable than extra
food, but do check your pony daily for any rubs from
straps and buckles;
do not feed 'new' hay until after Christmas;
if in doubt and for advice on feeding older ponies speak
to your friendly XLVets Equine practice.
Welcome...
TO THE AUTUMN 2013
XLVETS EQUINE PONY PAGES
WINTER FEEDING...
from Jane White, St Boniface Veterinary Clinic
www.xlvets.co.uk