Feed restriction

Restricted feeding is particularly necessary for obese horses and ponies or good doers. Good "feed converters" genetically require less energy and easily become overweight if feed is freely accessible.

As the seasonal regulation of pasture growth is bypassed in stable management, feeding must be handled restrictively. This is achieved, for example, by allocating hay in portions, ideally in a hay net (ensure it is securely attached) or in a rack. Feed dispensers also fulfil this restrictive function. Above all, however, restriction is necessary when it comes to pasture feeding. Here, the pasture area can be portioned and extended as needed, or the horses/ponies can be moved to fresh grazing. Well-fitting grazing muzzles can also be used.

It should be noted that even with restricted feeding, excessively long gaps between meals should not occur. Empty periods of more than 6 hours should be avoided to prevent the formation of gastric ulcers.