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Discussion on Concerns on swtiching feeds
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Member:
3rsatsmf
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Posted on Wednesday, Mar 4, 2009 - 12:19 pm:
I'm confused as to why there are big concerns about switching feeds, assuming it is done correctly, slowly, etc.
I ran through all of Dr. O's calculations for calculating pasture, digestive energy requirements, and overall percentages (including forage) of protein, fiber and fat.
I am thinking to switch from a 10% protein grain to a 14% protein grain. I calculated the amount of 14% grain he would need to maintain the same amount of protein as from the 10% grain. Currently he is on 2 lb/day of 10%, which translates into 1.5 lb/day of 14% for the same amount of protein 0.2 lb/day.
When I then compared the results of the % fiber and % fat, and digestive energy, I noticed very little difference. The new grain has less fat so his overall fat intake will decrease by 10% and his digestible energy will be within 2% of his recommended from Dr. O's calculation.
It looks like this switch will have very little impact, am I missing something?
P.S. - Currently my 1600 lb Friesian is on 2 lb of 10% /day. The current feed has beet pulp which is not agreeing with him so I calculated with feed with no beet pulp.
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Wednesday, Mar 4, 2009 - 9:34 pm:
I would be confused too Joni: why do you think there are big concerns with carefully switched feeds that have a similar nutritional make up? I agree there is very little impact of such a switch but since different ingredients are used recommend you do it slowly.
DrO
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Member:
3rsatsmf
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Posted on Thursday, Mar 5, 2009 - 7:06 am:
Thank you Dr. O., for your response. You're going to laugh; the reason I was confused and thus concerned was due to the horrified looks  I receive when I mention to the barn owner and the other boarders that I'm considering switching him from 10% to 14%. I appreciate your insight.
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Thursday, Mar 5, 2009 - 8:04 am:
One thing for sure Joni, every bad thing that happens to your horse from here on out will be that dreaded 14% feed.
DrO
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