Beet Pulp Beet pulp is a high-fiber roughage source that is easily digested by horses. Since it is purchased in dry form and expands when wet, you should soak it for a length of time before feeding it to your horse. It does not contain sufficient potassium for the horse’s diet, however, so if fed in large amounts as a fiber source, potassium must be supplemented. Molasses will add potassium, but it is made mainly of sugar. Although flavorful, too much sugar can upset the horse’s digestive system. Many pre-formulated mixed feeds contain beet pulp to increase fiber content and will have the correct nutrient balance.
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This article originally appeared in the 2010 issue of Horses USA. Click here to purchase a copy.
Holly Caccamise has been with Horse Illustrated and Young Rider magazines since 2007, and in 2019, she became Editor in Chief of both titles. Caccamise has a master's degree in Animal Science with a specialization in equine nutrition and exercise physiology. She has also worked as a racing magazine ad copywriter and top-level show groom.
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