Traditionally, in the winter, horses were fed bran as a tasty and warming hot mash. However, feeding a mash during the summer months has a number of benefits too.
Before we discuss these benefits it’s important to mention that not all mashes are nutritionally equal. While wheat bran mash is a good source of fibre it can off work against the balance of the diet due to its poor calcium to phosphorus ratio and lack of key vitamins and minerals. So, if you would like to feed a mash to your horse this summer, we recommend feeding one that has been specifically formulated to be nutritionally balanced such as Connolly’s RED MILLS Comfort Mash.
Appetite stimulation
During a busy competition season or if your horse is feeling a little under the weather, they can often back off their feed, but a tempting, tasty feed of Comfort Mash will help tempt even the fussiest horse. Comfort Mash contains a blend of wholegrain cereals, super fibres and peas, plus added B-vitamins, to help stimulate and maintain your horse’s appetite. It can also be an ideal way to disguise any supplements or medicines your horse needs.
Encourages water intake
Horses are often suspicious of new water sources and tend to drink less while travelling and competing away from home.This coupled with warmer temperatures during the summer months can increase the risk of dehydration. By feeding Comfort Mash you can help to improve your horse’s fluid intake and therefore aid rehydration.
Easy to chew
Horses that have previously suffered an episode of choke may need a soft, easy to swallow feed. Comfort Mash is ideal in these situations as, when soaked, it provides a soft textured, easy to chew ‘porridge’.
Supports the immune system
Comfort Mash is fully balanced with our Pro Vitamin and Mineral package, including the added antioxidants vitamin E and selenium, to help support immune function, which can be particularly challenged during a busy competition season or during periods of illness.
Supports digestive function
Comfort Mash includes cereals that have been steamed cooked to help maximise digestive efficiency. It also contains a number of ‘super fibres’ including soya hulls and chopped alfalfa. These highly digestible fibre sources help to support digestive health and provides an important source of slow release energy.
Aids condition
Comfort Mash is high in oil, including linseed oil, for extra condition and shine. It also contains quality protein to support muscle development, as well as key vitamins and minerals to help promote a healthy, glossy coat.
Comfort Mash is easy to prepare; simply mix one-part water (cold or hot), with one-part Comfort Mash, leave to soak for 15 minutes, then stir and feed. Unlike a traditional bran mash for horses, Comfort Mash is nutritionally balanced so can be fed as either the sole hard feed or to replace part of your horse’s normal ration daily. For more information see here.
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