Problem Feeds for Metal Temperament Horse

The organs associated with the Metal element are the Lungs and Large Intestine. There are 2 problem foods for the Metal horse. These include feeds that can become dusty or moldy and high sugar/starch feeds, such as grain and lush pasture.

Moldy hay should never be knowingly fed to any horse but will be especially damaging the a Metal horse. Mold spores or dust in hay or feed can irritate the lungs settling up inflammatory airway disease. Round bales are especially prone to harbor dust and mold spores. If you feed round bales to a Metal horse put the bale under cover to minimize mold around the edges from exposure to the elements. Make sure that all hay is properly cured so there is no dust or mold inside the bale. Steaming hay immediately before feeding will make dusty hay safe for a Metal horse.

High Starch Grains can cause problems in the large intestine when all the starch is not fully digested in the small intestine. Starch that makes its way to the large intestine will disrupt the balance of fiber digesting bacteria. The starch digesting bacteria will over grow the fiber digesting bacteria which will cause problems with fiber digestion and lead to ulceration of the lining of the colon. Lush pasture or stressed grass can also be high in sugar/starch and cause similar problems to high grain diets. A hard working Metal horse can handle some sugar/starch if it is fed in small amounts at a time. Grazing muzzles can slow down consumption of high sugar/starch pasture and slow feed hay nets can be used to limit intake of high sugar/starch hay.