How to Make a Bran Mash for Your Horse

Feeding a bran mash to hard working horses is a tradition that has been passed down to horseman throughout generations.  When overfed, bran mashes can actually have a damaging effect on your horse, but when given occasionally, they can be a warm and tasty treat.  Bran mashes also act as a laxative, and can be good for horses with digestive problems or those prone to colic.  Because of the sweet taste, a mash can also successfully hide medications.  Be cautious however, as mashes can cause calcium imbalances.  They should never be fed more than twice a week, and should be fed with caution to horses under three.  If you have any concerns about your horse’s diet, speak with your vet before adding anything new.

What you’ll need:

  • 3 lbs bran (either wheat or rice)
  • ¼ cup molasses
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • 4 cups hot water (approximately)

Slowly combine the water and bran in a large bucket.  Once thoroughly mixed, add the molasses and carrot.  For a different taste, try substituting apple sauce and diced apple for the molasses and carrot.  Then add any supplements, such as flax seed or medications, and allow the mixture to cool before feeding.

Comments

  1. marlana says:

    can you make a mash outta just regular feed like senior feed

  2. banamine says:

    I Use Alfalfa or Timothy tea Water for my mashes
    5 gallon bucket oat cooker water hay chaf mostly simmer as neccasary

  3. Kelly says:

    When I make a warm bran mash I just use warm to hot water and enough flaky bran to make a mash the consistency of oatmeal. When my daughter was younger she use to like to dip her hand in the mash and eat it like candy.

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