Alfalfa
Alfalfa · Medicago sativa
Mechanism
Alfalfa is a legume forage with a markedly higher crude-protein and calcium content than grass hay as well as a favourable amino-acid profile (in particular lysine as the first limiting amino acid). A buffering effect in the stomach through the high calcium and protein content, which may help to buffer stomach acid, is discussed; the equine data on this are limited and in part contradictory. As a protein and calcium source, alfalfa is of interest above all for horses with increased requirements (growth, pregnancy/lactation, muscle build-up), but must be balanced into the overall ration.
Cautions
- · High calcium and protein content — mind the Ca:P ratio of the overall ration (target ~1.5-2:1)
- · High energy content — use sparingly in easy keepers and in EMS/overweight risk
- · Pay attention to feed quality (dust, mould); steam if necessary
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Is Alfalfa a feed or a veterinary medicine for horses?
Equiterna classes Alfalfa as “Complementary feed”. Legal framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/6 / TAMG (DE/AT), Feed Regulation (EC) 767/2009.
Is Alfalfa allowed at FEI competitions?
In the profile, Alfalfa is listed with the FEI status “Not listed”. The current FEI list is authoritative, so please check its latest version.
Which dosage do the sources give for Alfalfa?
Stated in the profile: ration-dependent, typically about 0.3-0.5 kg/100 kg BW/day as part of the forage; check the Ca:P of the overall ration. This is information from the literature, not an instruction for an individual horse.
Which sources are there for Alfalfa?
The profile cites: NRC 2007, GfE 2014, and Nadeau et al. 2000.
Usage note
This content is for information and education. It does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your horse shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian.
“Nothing forced can ever be beautiful.”
Equiterna is an intermediary platform for equine knowledge, marketplace and tools — not a veterinary-medicines dealer, veterinary practice or pharmacy. Compound information is source-attributed (PubMed, specialist journals, NRC/GfE, EU regulations) and free of healing claims. Legal framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/6 / TAMG (DE/AT), Feed Regulation (EC) 767/2009, FEI Prohibited Substances List, HWG.