Beet Pulp Feeding Starter Plan Generator
Beet pulp can be a useful way to add digestible fibre, support weight gain, or help picky drinkers when fed as a mash. The key is starting small and increasing gradually so your horse’s gut can adapt. Use this tool to generate a simple 14 day starter plan based on your horse’s size and your goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much beet pulp should I feed my horse?
Most horses do well with 0.5 to 1.5 pounds of dry beet pulp per 100 pounds of body weight daily. For a 1,000-pound horse, that's typically 1 to 4 pounds dry weight per day, depending on your feeding goal. Start with a quarter of your target amount and increase gradually over 14 days.
How do I introduce beet pulp to my horse's diet safely?
Start with a small amount, around 0.25 to 0.5 pounds dry, and increase slowly over 10 to 14 days. This gradual introduction allows gut bacteria to adjust and helps you monitor for any digestive changes. Watch manure consistency, appetite, and water intake throughout the process.
Do I have to soak beet pulp before feeding?
Soaking is strongly recommended. Dry beet pulp absorbs 3 to 4 times its weight in water, which can cause issues if it expands in the digestive tract. Soaking also adds valuable hydration to your horse's diet. Shreds need 15 to 30 minutes in warm water, while pellets need 30 to 60 minutes.
Is beet pulp safe for horses with metabolic issues like insulin resistance or Cushing's?
Plain beet pulp without molasses is generally considered safe for metabolic horses due to its low sugar and starch content. However, always consult your veterinarian first. You can rinse soaked beet pulp to reduce sugars further. Introduce it more slowly and monitor closely for any changes.
Can beet pulp help my horse gain weight?
Yes, beet pulp is an excellent weight gain supplement. It provides highly digestible fiber that converts to energy without the risks of high-starch feeds. For weight gain, you can feed up to 0.5 pounds per 100 pounds of body weight daily, split across multiple meals.
What should I watch for when introducing beet pulp?
Monitor manure consistency, as slight softening is normal initially but diarrhea is not. Watch appetite to ensure your horse is eating normally and finishing meals. Check water intake stays consistent or increases. Look for any signs of discomfort, changes in gut sounds, or colic symptoms.
Can I feed beet pulp to senior horses with dental problems?
Beet pulp is excellent for seniors with dental issues. When soaked to a soft mash consistency, it requires minimal chewing. Use warm water and soak longer than usual. You can even blend it for horses with severe dental problems. It provides easy-to-digest fiber when hay consumption is difficult.
How many times per day should I feed beet pulp?
Split your daily beet pulp amount across at least two meals. For larger amounts or horses with sensitive digestion, three meals is better. This mimics natural grazing patterns, prevents digestive overload, and provides more consistent energy throughout the day.
What's the difference between beet pulp shreds and pellets?
Both provide the same nutritional value. Shreds soak faster, typically 15 to 30 minutes in warm water, and create a fluffier texture. Pellets take longer to soak, usually 30 to 60 minutes, but are often more convenient to store and measure. Choose based on your horse's preference and your preparation time.