Ashley Griffin, University of Kentucky

Don't supplement balanced rations.

If you are feeding a commercial feed, the feed is balanced to meet the nutrient needs of a specific class of horse. Therefore, there is no need to topdress the ration with mineral, vitamin, protein, or energy supplements. These supplements are expensive and can lead to serious nutrient imbalance and toxicity problems.

Refrain from diluting balanced rations by adding some other cereal grain to the diet. The concentrate you are feeding is balanced. By adding oats, for example, you are decreasing and changing the nutrient balance of the diet.

Provide a source of salt for all horses. This source can be provided as straight salt or trace mineral salt. Do not provide both; provide one or the other.