Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK, so the vet told me to mix wheat bran, water, and molasses together to help hydrate my horses. Now the question is... how much wheat bran, how much water, how much molasses? I would guess add enough molasses that they'll EAT IT, but how much water per how much wheat bran???

I'd ask your vet how much they suggest since they recommended the treatment

Personally we don't use bran because the amount you would need to use to create a laxative affect is more than what you would want to feed, and too much bran can throw the you calcium/phosphorous balance off.

I have used Molasses in warm water though. A vet who used to care for our horses when my husband was out of town, and who incidentally had specialized in colic cases at a university before doing private practice, was the one who recommended that. The molasses and warmth both encourage the horse to drink more. But like anything, if you offer water with something in it - be it molasses or salts, or whatever, always also keep a bucket of fresh water available at all times!

Good luck...
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PH Cody
HorseHobbyist Site Coordinator

Oh he didn't want me to use it as a laxative, he just said it gives it a little substance. He basically said make sure it's on the brink of soupy.
Molasses in water, eh? Wow, just thinking about that makes my head hurt... but hey whatever works! Thanks