Stabilized Rice Bran to Horses

Five Reasons to Feed Stabilized Rice Bran to Horses

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Last Updated on February 21, 2022 by Allison Price

You may have thought about feeding your horse stabilized Rice Bran, but you aren’t sure how to introduce it or, perhaps, how to properly use it. Experts in Equine Nutrition agree that stabilized rice Bran is a useful feed additive for horses. However, it must be introduced slowly and correctly to avoid any gastrointestinal problems.

Stabilized Rice Bran to Horses

“Stabilized Rice Bran” is simply a way to make sure that rice bran does not go rancid. Clarissa Brown-Douglas (Australia): Clarissa Brown-Douglas, Ph.D. is an equine nutritionist at Kentucky Equine Research.

Here are five reasons horse owners and managers recommend stabilized rice bran.

  1. Horses can be put or kept at a weight (e.g. hard-keeper, horses who are involved in heavy exercise).
  2. Nutrition experts recommend that horses suffering from PSSM or endocrine disorders such as Cushing’s disease or metabolic syndrome be given a modified diet.
  3. Management of Gastric Ulcers
  4. To optimize coat health, we provide a fat source.
  5. Helping to modify some behavior concerns (fat provides cool, slow-release energy).

Are you ready to give stabilized rice bran a try? These are some suggestions for planning an introduction.

  • Be certain to purchase stabilized rice bran. Unstabilized rice bran can be purchased, but it will quickly go rancid and must not be stored more than 5-7 days depending on the heat and humidity. Stabilized rice bran should not be confused with other rice products for horses, such as broken Rice.
  • Fortify the rice bran. Unstabilized rice bran is naturally high in phosphorus and low in calcium, which is considered an inverted calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. To remedy this problem, quality products are often added calcium.
  • Select a form of food (meal, pellet) that is acceptable to your horse. Stabilized rice bran can be palatable and readily accepted by horses. You can start by feeding small amounts to 4 lb (1.8kg) daily.
  • Consult an equine nutritionist before you make any changes to your diet. Discuss all aspects of the diet including supplements to ensure that you aren’t double-dipping
Allison Price
Allison Price

I’m Allison, born and raised in San Diego California, the earliest memory I have with horses was at my grandfather’s farm. I used to sit at the stable as a kid and hang out with my Papa while he was training the horses. When I was invited to watch a horse riding competition, I got so fascinated with riding!