Feeding a 3 yr old

Question
I have a 3 yr old RMH that I brought back from Kentucky.  After the 12 hr ride home, and settling in time, he has lost a noticable amount of weight.  He gets hay 24/7, and a few hours turnout on the grass.  What else can I give him to help with weight gain.  I would like to give a feed with vitamins and minerals but nothing that will make him hot.  Any advice?

Answer
Hi Sharon,

Thank you for your question.  I think it's important to remember that although your 3 year old may be done most of his frame growth, he is still in the development phase of life and needs a diet that is going to support his joint and bone maturity, and his muscle development.  I understand not wanting him to get 'hot' on feed, but choosing the right type of feed will prevent that from happening.  A vitamin/mineral supplement will help his joint and bone maturity but won't help him put on body condition or build (re-build) muscle mass as it doesn't contain energy or protein.  So I would prefer to recommend that you go with a complete feed to help your horse mature properly.  If your horse has a tendency to get 'hot' on starch based feeds, then try a high fat/high fiber feed with a slightly elevated protein level (more protein for your developing horse).

I'm not sure which feed companies you have available in your area, but my choices for you would be something like Purina's 'Ultium Growth', Triple Crown's 'Training Formula' or Buckeye's 'Cadence Ultra".  These feeds are slightly higher in protein, more densely mineralized and draw much of their energy from fat and fermentable fiber sources.  They will help your horse mature safely, gaining muscle mass and body condition, and ensure safe joint and bone maturity.  

Thanks, Corlena