How to Feed Horses Seaweed

Shetland ponies in the Scottish Isles traditionally ate fresh seaweed for centuries, and it was said to endow them with their unusual strength. However, modern horse owners should not feed fresh seaweed, as it is too difficult to ensure consistency. Seaweed supplements are available in both dried and liquid form. Seaweed can be a useful supplement for horses that suffer from iodine deficiency. Health benefits include general health improvement, glossy coat and a stimulation of the thyroid. However, there is a narrow margin for error, since over-consumption can cause iodine toxicity.

Things You'll Need

  • Weigh tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your horse's weight to calculate the correct quantity of supplement required. Pass the weigh tape around the body behind the front legs, in the place where the girth would sit. Pull it tightly enough to depress the coat. Read the indicated weight.

    • 2

      Check the horse's existing diet. If it is on any other supplements containing iodine, these must be taken into account before you feed seaweed.

    • 3

      Check the instructions on the side of the supplement tub or bottle. An average horse weighing 1,100 lb. will require no more than 0.2 mg of iodine per day. Seaweed supplements vary in concentration levels, but the iodine levels and a recommended daily amount of supplement should be listed on the label. Adjust the dose accordingly for the horse's weight.

    • 4

      Add one-fourth the recommended dose to the horse's feed on the first day. New feed supplements should be introduced into the feed slowly to allow the horse's digestive system to adapt. Feed one-fourth dose for two days, one-half dose for two days, three-fourths dose for two days and a full dose on the seventh day.