I can provide information about the horse’s diet and how to avoid digestive problems. However, the search results do not contain information on the specific benefits of light versus intense exercise on a horse’s digestion.
The horse’s natural food is grass, but when stabled, their diet generally consists of hay and grain. To avoid digestive issues, horses should not be fed immediately before or after work. Fresh water is also important, especially when the horse is shedding its winter coat, but the animal should never be watered when it is overheated after working.
Oats provide the greatest nutritional value and are especially good for foals. Older horses, whose teeth are worn down, or those with digestive troubles, can be provided with crushed oats. Chaff (minced straw) can be added to the oat ration of animals that eat greedily or do not chew the grain properly. Crushed barley is sometimes substituted in part for oats. Hay provides the bulk of the horse’s ration and may be of varying composition according to locale. Mash is bran mixed with water and with various invigorating additions or medications and may be given to horses with digestive troubles or deficient eating habits. Corn (maize) is used as a fattening cereal, but it makes the horse sweat easily. Salt is needed by the horse at all times and especially when shedding. Bread, carrots, and sugar are tidbits often used by the rider or trainer to reward an animal.
Would you like to explore other aspects of horse nutrition, such as commercial feed mixes or alternative food sources?