How to Cook Flax for Horse Feed

Flax (also known as flaxseed or linseed) contains high concentrations of the beneficial fatty acids linolenic acid, omega-3 and omega-6. Because of its high omega-3 concentration, flax is excellent for healthy ligaments and tendons, the immune system, prevention of arthritis, shiny mane and coat, and improved hoof condition. Cooking the flax will make these nutrients easier for your horse to digest so it can begin to gain the benefits from this seed.

Things You'll Need

  • Flax
  • Medium to large pot or crock-pot
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Instructions

  1. Stove Top Instructions

    • 1

      Measure desired amount of whole flax into a large pot (up to 1 cup for 1 horse) and add water equal to 4 times the amount of flax you are cooking. For example: 1/2 cup flax = 2 cups water.

    • 2

      Cover the pot to keep out any debris and leave to soak at least 2 hours but up to overnight. This will shorten your cooking time and aid in the digestion of the flax.

    • 3

      Set your pot over high heat to bring to a boil then lower and simmer for 1 hour. Add other feed grains such as oats or barley to the mixture if desired. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

    • 4

      Feed this mash to your horse as-is or mix with its regular feed.

    Crock-Pot Instructions

    • 5

      Place the flaxseed (as well as barley and oats if using) in a slow cooker. Fill the pot no more than halfway. For best results, use equal amounts of flax, barley and oats.

    • 6

      Level the grains in the pot and add boiling water to twice their depth. Stir well and set the slow cooker on "high." When the mash boils turn it to "low" and let it simmer for at least 4 hours. The mash is ready when it doubles in bulk.

    • 7

      Turn off the slow cooker and allow the mash to cool slightly. Add it into the rest of your horse's regular grains.