Beet pulp is a fantastic fiber-rich feed option for horses, providing easily digestible energy and supporting gut health. It’s especially beneficial for hard keepers, senior horses, or those needing a low-starch diet, as it offers extra calories without the risks of high-grain diets.

Beet pulp is a byproduct of sugar beet processing, left over after most of the sugar has been extracted. This fibrous material is commonly used as a feed ingredient for horses due to its excellent digestibility and nutritional benefits.

Here’s Why Beet Pulp is Considered a Good Choice for Horses:

• High in Digestible Fiber: Beet pulp is rich in highly digestible fiber, making it an effective alternative or supplement to forage, especially if hay quality is poor or limited.
• Energy-Rich but Low in Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSCs): Beet pulp offers moderate calories, often comparable to oats, but with much lower levels of NSCs like sugars and starches. This makes it suitable for horses prone to conditions like laminitis, insulin resistance, or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).
• Good Source of Calcium: Naturally high in calcium, beet pulp helps balance the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in the diet, essential for bone health.
• Hydration Benefits: Soaked beet pulp is excellent for hydration, particularly during winter or for horses prone to dehydration.
• Safe for a Range of Horses: Low in sugar (when molasses-free) and high in fiber, beet pulp suits metabolic-issue horses, seniors, and hard keepers who struggle to maintain weight. It’s also soft and easy to chew when soaked, perfect for horses with dental problems.
• Weight Gain and Digestive Health: The calorie density of beet pulp supports weight gain without adding bulk to the ration. Its fiber content promotes a healthy hindgut microbiome, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.
  
  

Summary

Beet pulp is a versatile, nutrient-dense feed ingredient that supports digestive health, provides safe energy, and benefits horses in various health situations. It’s an excellent choice for complementing a balanced forage-based diet and is especially useful for hard keepers, senior horses, and those with metabolic challenges.