Mashes have taken the equestrian world by a storm in recent years. There now are available options far exceeding the sugar beet, bran, and boiled flaxseed (known as linseed in the UK). These were feed-room staples in days gone by.

What’s the reason for this increase in popularity and how do you know if a mash (or which one) might be suitable for your horse? Read on to discover the when, why, and how of feeding mashes to your equids.

Unbalanced Traditions

Traditional bran mashes were once a popular choice for sick/convalescing horses or following a day of heavy exercise. They often were fed as laxative to prevent colic or as soft and palatable way of providing additional fibre (and generally fed on an infrequent ‘as needed’ basis).

However, we now know that bran might irritate the gut. If fed infrequently, bran mashes might cause digestive upsets. These are  likely the cause of any perceived laxative effect.

Feeding bran can also lead to an imbalance of calcium and phosphorus in diet, particularly if fed in large amounts and without appropriate calcium supplementation. Ideally, the ratio of calcium:phosphorus in the total diet should be around 1.5-2:1. Keep in mind that bran contains approximately 10 times more phosphorus than calcium!

Mashes for Horses with Poor Teeth

The soft, ‘porridge like’ consistency makes mashes ideal for horses with poor teeth. If your horse needs a forage replacer and can no longer manage short chopped fibre, a mash will be essential.

Mashes for Hydration

Any feed that requires soaking can help to increase water intake. But, did you know that feeding a mash might also encourage some horses to drink more water?

Mashes for a Low-Starch Diet

Many (but not all) mashes are high in fibre and low in starch and sugar. This provides an alternative to traditional cereal-based feeds that are suitable for those equids prone to excitability and in some cases, clinical conditions such as laminitis. Like mixes and cubes, there are low-, medium-, and high-energy (calorie) options available.

Mashes for Tempting Fussy Eaters

Feeding fussy eaters can be challenging. Adding a small amount of a tasty mash to the horse’s current feed might tempt it to tuck in, especially if it includes added flavours, herbs, or aromas. Mashes are also a great way of mixing in supplements and can be used to help disguise medications.

Mashes for ‘Bulking Out the Bucket’

A token ration of mash  (500g or 1.1 pounds per day or less for a 500kg or 1,100 pound horse) will add limited calories to the diet. This—coupled with the increase in volume after soaking—helps to bulk out the feed bucket without compromising the good doer’s waistline.

Tips for Choosing a Mash

  • Check whether your chosen mash contains added vitamins and minerals. If not, you will need to feed it alongside the recommended amount of an appropriate compound feed, balancer, or broad-spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement to provide a balanced diet.
  • Not all mashes are suitable for feeding as a hay replacer. Some might only be suitable for feeding as a partial hay replacer. Seek advice from the manufacturer or a nutrition advisor if you’re unsure.
  • When competing in the U.S., consult competitive regulatory bodies such as the USEF or breed associations. In the UK, choose products that are BETA® NOPS approved.
  • Feeds containing molasses are not automatically high in sugar, but many companies now offer molasses-free options for those who prefer to avoid molasses.
  • Quick-soaking mashes are a convenient option. Some take less than 5 minutes to prepare even if using cold water!

Tips for Preparing and Feeding

  • Always weigh your mash before soaking. The suggested feeding rates on pack are based on the dry weight. The increase in volume post-soaking makes it easy to over-estimate how much you are feeding.
  • Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding soaking time and the amount of water needed. Then be sure to check that the consistency is suitable for your individual horse before feeding. If necessary, increase the amount of water and/or soaking time.
  • Introduce your chosen mash (and any other new feeds/supplements) into your horse/pony’s diet gradually.
  • Most mashes are designed to be fed daily as frequent or sudden changes in diet should be avoided wherever possible. If feeding a mash infrequently (e.g., to encourage eating or drinking at a show), make sure you only  feed small amounts. As a guide, feed up to 500g per day for horses, less for ponies.
  • Soaked feeds can start to ferment quickly in hot weather. Avoid soaking in advance as the weather heats up. Quick-soaking varieties are ideal in this situation.
  • Using warm (not boiling) water can help to speed up the soaking time if needed and might encourage eating. This is true especially in winter months or for older horses with sensitive teeth who might be reluctant to tuck in to feeds mixed with cold water.
  • If you choose a mash that requires a longer soaking time, keep it covered. In warm weather, try to leave it in a cool, dark place.

Further Reading

  • As Product Manager for SPILLERS, Sarah Nelson is responsible for the technical management of all SPILLERS products, including recipe formulation.
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