Feeding straw to horses for weight loss is one of the best kept secrets! Straw offers numerous benefits to both horses and ponies prone to obesity or laminitis. The low nutritional value and low-calorie profile make it a great choice for implementing into your overweight horse or laminitis prone pony’s diet regime.

Barley straw is the best recommended straw for weight loss in your horse or pony. Other straw such as wheat should not be fed. Oat straw is more palatable but also offers more calories so is not recommended for weight loss.

When feeding straw to horses for weight loss, select the best quality barley straw. We recommend   www.thestrawwarehouse.co.nz    who deliver nationwide here in New Zealand. Always ensure you request the best quality for feeding to your horse. Start feeding a small amount daily to introduce to your horse or pony. Slowly increase the amount over 1-2 weeks. Straw is perfect to replace hay if pasture conditions are rich or replace 50 % of your hay when your horse is on pasture restriction. Due to the low nutritional value, it is not recommended to be feed soley on its own.

Barley straw gives horse owners a break who are required to soak hay daily for weight loss in their horse or pony. Typically, those prone to laminitis require very low-calorie feed or if currently in a laminitis episode, then straw provides another low-calorie feeding option.

It must be kept in mind that the low nutritional value of straw will not provide your horse or pony with nutrients so other forage or feed is recommended in conjunction.

Here are some key benefits of feeding barley straw for weight loss in your horse or pony:

1. Low in Sugar and Starch

  • Barley straw is low in sugar and starch, making it a good option for horses and ponies that need to maintain a controlled weight or are prone to laminitis. High sugar and starch levels can trigger laminitis in sensitive horses, especially those with metabolic disorders like Equine Cushing’s Disease (ECD) or Insulin Resistance (IR).

2. Low Calories

  • It’s low in calories compared to other hays, such as alfalfa or some grass hays, which makes it a good choice for weight management. Feeding barley straw allows ponies and horses to feel full without consuming too many calories, which is important for managing obesity.

3. Digestive Health

  • Barley straw provides fibre, which can help support healthy digestion and promote gut motility. This is particularly important for horses prone to metabolic issues, as a healthy digestive system helps regulate weight and insulin levels.

4. Helps Satisfy Chewing Needs

  • The fibrous texture of barley straw allows horses and ponies to chew for longer periods. This helps satisfy their natural chewing instincts and may help reduce boredom or stress-related behaviours. Additionally, chewing fibre-rich material can assist with maintaining dental health. Horses also enjoy the taste and high fibre nature of barely straw. Most horses readily eat when introduced to straw.

5. Promotes Relaxation

  • Barley straw is often more relaxing to horses and ponies compared to other feeds because of its texture and roughage content. Horses prone to metabolic issues may benefit from a diet that helps minimize stress.

Important Considerations:

  • Not a Complete Forage Replacement: Barley straw should not be used as a complete replacement for good quality hay or grass. But is useful as up to 50 % replacement. Ensure your horse or pony is also receiving adequate quality vitamins and minerals. Opti-Min is a top choice for a quality broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement. Click here for more details Opti-Min | Best Horse minerals | Vitamins
  • Quality Control: Be sure the barley straw is free from mold, dust, and contaminants to avoid respiratory or digestive issues. Always feed fresh straw.

In general, barley straw can be a helpful addition to a healthy feeding plan for horses and ponies with obesity or laminitis issues. It is recommended to introduce slowly and alwyas ensure plenty of clean fresh water at all times.