top of page

Skinny Horse Protocol

REFEEDING A SKINNY HORSE
SoulMan Before_edited.jpg
Ranger Before (1)_edited_edited.jpg
Ranger After_edited_edited.jpg

The feeding of concentrated calories to a starving horse can lead to a fatal condition called Refeeding Syndrome.  This syndrome can cause irreversible kidney, heart and respiratory failure 3 to 5 days after the first feeding.


When refeeding a starving horse it is important to avoid carbohydrates and offer frequent small meals of high-quality alfalfa instead.  

​

Here is the recommended refeeding protocol from UC Davis

 

Days 1-3
Feed one pound (~ 1/6 of a flake) of good alfalfa hay every 4 hrs for a total of 6 lbs per day divided into six feedings. Contact a vet to evaluate the medical status of the horse.

Days 4-10
Slowly increase the amount of alfalfa and decrease the number of feedings so that by day six, you are feeding just over 4 lbs of hay every 8 hrs (total of 13 lbs per day in 3 feedings).

Days 10 – several months
Feed as much alfalfa as the horse will eat and decrease feeding to twice a day. Provide access to a salt block. Do NOT feed grain, treats or other supplements until the horse is well along in his recovery; early feeding of grain and supplemental material complicates the return of normal metabolic function and can result in death.

 

REFEEDNG

Subscribe to Stay Informed

Thanks for subscribing!

Contact Us

Email 

kbobbio@partnershipforhorses.com

​

Phone 

540.239.5226

bottom of page