If your draft horse suddenly stops eating his grain, it’s a clear signal something is off. While a picky eater might refuse hay in favor of grain, ignoring grain is more concerning because it is often the most palatable and energy-dense part of the diet. The most common reasons are dental pain, gastric ulcers, or a change in routine. Let’s walk through what to check and how to get your big guy back to the feed tub.
Dental Issues: The Prime Suspect
Draft horses have unique dental anatomy – their molars are long and large, often with tight contact points. They are prone to developing sharp enamel points, hooks on the upper first and lower last molars, and sometimes waves or ramps. These can cut the tongue or cheeks, making chewing grain painful. Signs include:
– Dropping grain (quidding)
– Tilting the head while eating
– Bad breath or foul odor from the mouth
– Packed feed in the cheeks (cheek pouches)
– Slow eating, or just standing at the feed tub
A veterinary dental float (filing) is the fix. Drafts often require sedation for a complete exam and float. Don’t attempt this yourself – sharp tools and the horse’s strong jaw can cause injury. Schedule an exam if it’s been over 6 months since the last float.
Gastric Ulcers: Pain That Kills Appetite
Gastric ulcers are another top reason for feed refusal. Stressors like heavy training, limited turnout, transport, or even changes in the herd can cause ulcers in the squamous portion of the stomach. Signs include:
– Teeth grinding
– Girthiness (sensitivity when girthing)
– Lying down more than usual
– Poor coat condition
– Intermittent colic or mild discomfort
Ulcers can cause nausea, making your horse associate eating with pain. Omeprazole (GastroGard) from your vet is the standard treatment. Preventative management includes free-choice hay, reducing grain meals, and turning out 24/7 when possible.
Feeding Routine and Management
Sometimes the issue is simpler: a change in the grain itself. Draft horses can be creatures of habit. Did you switch brands, add a supplement with a strong taste, or let the feed get stale? Check the grain for mold, insects, or an unusual smell. Stale pellets or sweet feed can turn them off. Also consider:
– Too much grain at once: Drafts are prone to gastric discomfort if fed large meals. Split into 2-3 smaller meals.
– Feeding hay right before grain: If the horse fills up on hay first, he may not be hungry. Offer grain first, then hay.
– Water availability: Ensure fresh, clean water is always nearby. Dehydration depresses appetite.
– Hard grain: Some drafts prefer soaked pellets or beet pulp. Soaking can make grain easier to chew and reduce dust.
Other Medical Causes to Rule Out
If dental and stomach issues are addressed and he still refuses, consider:
– Jaw pain: TMJ issues or tooth root abscesses can cause pain when opening the mouth.
– Choke or esophageal issues: Difficult swallowing after a choke episode may require a vet exam.
– Neurological problems: In rare cases, difficulty chewing can stem from nerve damage or EPM.
– Liver or kidney disease: Advanced systemic illness can cause anorexia.
Your vet may recommend blood work, a gastric scope, or a neurological exam. Don’t wait more than a few days – a draft horse not eating loses weight fast because of their size.
What to Do Right Now
- Call your vet for a dental check and discuss ulcer treatment.
- Check the quality of the grain – smell, taste, look. Try a fresh bag.
- Offer a different texture: soaked beet pulp with a little molasses, or a mash.
- Ensure slow, easy access to hay 24/7 – forage keeps the gut healthy.
- Reduce stress: maximize turnout, keep routine consistent.
Remember, a draft horse refusing grain is a red flag. Prompt vet attention can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major health crisis.
Key Takeaway
If your draft horse refuses grain, schedule a veterinary dental exam and discuss gastric ulcer treatment before trying diet changes.