Horses are majestic creatures that require proper care and attention to maintain a healthy weight. If you’ve noticed that your horse appears too thin or undernourished, it might be time to take action. Here are 11 steps to help you fatten up your horse and ensure their optimal wellbeing.

1. Assess your horse’s body condition: Begin by assessing your horse’s overall body condition using the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System. A score between 4-6 is ideal, while a score below 4 indicates that your horse needs to gain weight.

2. Consult a veterinarian: Consulting with a veterinarian ensures that there are no underlying health issues contributing to your horse’s low body weight. Your vet will also recommend ways to support safe and healthy weight gain for your horse.

3. Provide high-quality hay: Offer high-quality hay with adequate protein, energy, and fiber content for proper digestion. Feeding hay at 1.5% to 2% of their body weight daily can improve overall weight gain and health.

4. Adjust grain intake: Work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate amount of grain for your horse based on its age, size, and activity level. Gradually increase grain servings as needed without overfeeding.

5. Feed multiple meals per day: Distribute feedings across several smaller meals per day instead of one large meal. This practice allows your horse’s digestive system to better absorb and utilize nutrients.

6. Include healthy fats: Supplement your horse’s diet with healthy fats such as rice bran oil or flaxseed oil. These can provide additional calories and boost overall energy levels without adding bulk.

7. Offer alfalfa or beet pulp: Alfalfa and beet pulp provide energy-dense fiber sources that can safely contribute to weight gain while supporting gut health.

8. Ensure access to clean water: Horses need constant access to clean, fresh water. This aids in digestion and absorption of nutrients, supports weight gain efforts, and promotes overall health.

9. Create a consistent feeding schedule: Feed your horse at consistent times each day to establish a reliable routine. This helps reduce stress and encourages optimal nutrient absorption.

10. Monitor pasture quality and turnout time: Ensure that your horse has access to suitable grazing pastures with adequate grass quality. If necessary, add hay while they are in the pasture to supplement their diet.

11. Regular exercise: Establish a balanced exercise routine for your horse to build and maintain muscle mass while supporting weight gain efforts.

By following these 11 steps, you can effectively help your horse gain weight and improve their health. Remember to monitor their progress and make adjustments as needed under the guidance of your veterinarian or equine nutritionist throughout the entire process.