Disrupting the delicate balance of microbes in the large intestine can lead to colic, laminitis, founder and death. First thing: When horse owners decide to change a horses' diet,  the safe way it to do it gradually. That includes the introduction of a new load of forage. Mix some of the existing forage with the new forage for several days.

Secondly: Resist purchasing the least expensive feed out there. Cheap feeds will have non-digestible fillers and horse owners will end up feeding more to meet the nutrition requirements of the horse. Cheap feeds, turn out to not be that cheap!

The third thing horse owners do not want to do is feed by the scoop. Weigh the feed. If the horse is fed less than the recommended amounts, as stated by the manufacturer, you will not be providing a balanced diet. Always follow the feeding direction on the feed tag.

Fourth: Do not feed a product that is not designed for your horse. If your horse is growing, in training or on poor quality forage you do not want to be feeding a product designed for a mature horse that is not being worked and is on abundant pasture. Feeding to reach the specific requirements of the individual horse is extremely important

Finally, do not feed any product if you have even the slightest doubts about its quality and freshness. Horse feed should be free of dust, contain no mold, smell good and be of consistent texture from batch to batch. Return questionable products, or throw them out.

Better to waste a little feed than to endanger your horse.