Try to keep the total dietary potassium level at 1% of the total feed (by weight, not volume). This requires some minimal understanding of the potassium levels of common feeds. As a general rule, dry (plain) grains are about .5% (1/2%), and generally alfalfa is 1.5%. Grass hays tend to be closer to 1% potassium. It is always a good idea to have your hay tested to determine its exact composition. Therefore, if you feed and equal amount (by weight) of grain and alfalfa, you are right at 1% potassium, which is OK. If you need to increase feed to put on weight, increase both the alfalfa and grain to maintain the same proportion. If the horse is already overweight, or is highly prone to HYPP episodes, using a grass hay instead of alfalfa and minimal grain would be a better idea. It's not required to print potassium levels on a feed tag, but most feed companies can provide you with a detailed ingredient analysis of their feed if you ask for it.

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