Is there something I can feed for weight-gain without energy?

In short – No!

Weight gain requires calories, calories = energy. So it’s nigh on impossible to have one without the other.

However energy isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it doesn’t have to mean bad behaviour.

Bad behaviour is often associated with feeds that are high in starch and sugar levels, so choosing a calorie source that is low in sugar and cereal free will reduce the likelihood of any silly behaviour.

What if I am feeding low sugar/starch diets and still seeing silly behaviour?

You’re not alone for starters! But have you checked the levels of added magnesium in your calorie source?

In our experience, high magnesium feeds (particularly those fed in large quantities such as conditioning or topline cubes) can be the source of poor behaviour.

So, don’t be afraid to add calories to your horse’s diet if their workload demands it, or they require additional weight. BUT do choose the right calorie source: 

Low sugar, low starch and low magnesium.

To find out how excess added magnesium in your horses diet can lead to behavioral problems, read our article: Myths about Magnesium

Unsure if the diet you’re feeding is low or high in added magnesium?

Contact us for a free diet review: advice@equifeast.com