How to Feed Senior Horses Rice Bran

Senior horses who are underweight and require a higher percentage of fat in their daily diet may benefit from rice bran. Rice bran is the brown layer on rice underneath the hull. The milling process removes the bran. Rice bran contains about 1,200 calories in each pound, according to Understanding Horse Nutrition.The food also gives your horse fiber, protein, starch and gamma oryzanol. Gamma oryzanol may help your horse build lean muscle mass, according to Understanding Horse Nutrition.

Things You'll Need

  • Rice bran
  • Calcium supplement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Consult with your veterinarian about your older horse's nutritional needs before changing its diet. Rice bran has a high fat content -- 20 percent -- according to HorseChannel.com. This makes it ideal for horses who need to gain weight or who are very active. If your horse is overweight, you may wish to find an alternative feed.

    • 2

      Select stabilized rice bran only. Rice bran that is not stabilized will become rancid if it is not used within a week, according to Understanding Horse Nutrition. Rice bran is available in either pellets or powder. Select an appropriate form based on your horse's preferences. For example, some horses may prefer to eat the pellets.

    • 3

      Measure out the appropriate portion size. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate portion for your older horse's needs. Auburn University recommends 2 cups daily.

    • 4

      Divide the portion size in half. Offer your horse rice bran twice daily. Do not soak it in water to make a bran mash. Rice bran absorbs water differently than wheat bran and will simply turn into a soggy mess. Only make bran mashes with wheat bran.

    • 5

      Offer your horse a calcium supplement each day. Rice bran has an undesirable ratio of phosphorus to calcium. A daily calcium supplement can help keep your older horse healthy.