Horse Behavior Expected After a Rescue

Rescuing an abandoned horse and nursing it back to health is deeply gratifying. Good feeding is the most important facet of the rehabilitation process. The horse should ideally be able to feed to its fill every day to hasten the recovery. Unfortunately, you may notice erratic horse behavior that keeps it from being comfortable and feeding well.

Shows Aggression

Why would a thin, hungry and dehydrated horse have problems when feeding? The horse will sometimes become aggressive towards other animals and even the person feeding him. After lacking food for a significant period, he panics at the thought of it even when there is grain in plain sight. He still feels like the grain can be taken away at any time. It is advisable to put the grain into the trough before letting him in. Let him eat alone so that he can concentrate on the food.

Be Consistent

The above horse behavior will persist as long as the horse feels that food is not guaranteed. This may take years to change. Maintaining a consistent and predictable feeding routine goes a long way in reassuring the horses that they’re now safe and certain of food. Rewarding them for good behavior will encourage further improvement in horse behavior.

Provide Plenty

In addition to eating alone, it is important that the trough has food at all times. The horse will be at peace to eat slowly to his fill and still have more remaining. This will be evidence that the days of scarcity are over. Understand that a formerly abandoned horse is deeply insecure. Afraid of other animals, and even of you. This insecurity affects his feeding which in turn affects his recovery.  You have to get the feeding right.

The quality of feed also counts. Go for nutrient-dense foods. Even if the horse only manages a small portion, you can be assured that he has received ample nutrients to contribute towards his recovery. Sacate Pellet Mills will provide you with high-quality pellets that will send any horse to its feet in no time.