Frequently Asked Questions

I breed Warmblood/Thoroughbred crosses I have been feeding Equine Junior and coastal hay as directed. I have some concerns about the digestible energy as I have had several bone/growth issues over the years. I have four weanlings about 550 pounds. One has physitis, one wants to get a clubby foot, and the other two are fine. I prefer a complete feed rather than feeding lots of supplements. I offer free-choice coastal hay and only a mineral salt block.

You are experiencing the “joys” of raising babies. Seminole's program for raising foals starts with our Mare & Foal Formula or Pellet when the foals are born. Then, at weaning, switch the mare back to her maintenance ration and keep the foal on the Mare & Foal Formula until 12 months of age. With your situation, I would not change to the Mare & Foal at this time as it may cause more of the problems you are facing now. I would put them on Wellness Grow Safe Pellet or Wellness Grow Right. These products are formulated to support the bone, tendon and muscle growth your young horses are experiencing during their first years of rapid growth. They both contain added lysine, which is the first limiting amino acid for growth. They also contain levels of calcium, phosphorus, chelated trace minerals, vitamins, yeast culture and soy oil that support growth and development.

The breeding of your horses suggest that they might mature later than most light breeds, so I would continue with this feed program until they are 4-5 years of age, depending on whether they show more of the Thoroughbred or Warmblood characteristics. Most light breeds are mature at 3-3.5 years.