Making your own horse mash: basic recipe

What exactly is mash?

Mash is a warm, porridge-like meal based on bran or linseed, mixed with hot water. Traditionally it is given to horses as a light meal on a rest day or as a pick-me-up after intensive exercise. Its high moisture content supports gut function and helps prevent dehydration. In addition, horses that struggle with dry roughage generally enjoy it. Please note: mash does not replace a complete ration, but is a welcome addition to the daily feeding routine.

The basic recipe step by step

This recipe is suitable for one meal for an average horse of 500 kg.

• 500 g wheat bran (or a mix of wheat and oat bran)
• 100 g crushed linseed (provides mucilage and supports the gut wall)
• 50 g alfalfa pellets for extra protein and structure
• 1 tablespoon of salt or a scoop of electrolytes (optional, beneficial after sweating)
• Pour 1.5 to 2 litres of boiling water over the mixture, stir well and allow to cool for 10–15 minutes until lukewarm (approximately 38–40 °C) before serving

Handy variations on the basic recipe

Once you have mastered the basic recipe, you can easily adapt it based on the season or your horse's health:

• Winter mash: add a handful of dried apple or carrot pieces for extra palatability
• Recovery day: replace the alfalfa with 100 g of rolled barley for a little more slow-release energy
• Lean autumn: add 50 ml of cold-pressed linseed oil for extra fatty acids and a glossy coat
• Building up after illness: mix in a recommended amount of probiotics (follow the product dosage instructions)

How to get the temperature right

Temperature is crucial. Too hot and the mucous membranes of the oesophagus can be damaged; too cold and the mash loses some of its effect. Aim for 38–40 °C — similar to body temperature. Use a kitchen thermometer if in doubt, or test with the inside of your wrist as you would with baby food. Place a lid or tea towel over the bucket while it cools to retain the heat. In winter you can leave the bucket in a warm room for a while; in summer, room temperature is often already sufficient.

How often can you give mash?

Giving mash once a week — often on a Saturday or a rest day — is perfectly fine for most horses. If you give it more frequently, reduce the amount of bran slightly: large quantities of wheat bran contain relatively high levels of phosphorus, which can disrupt the calcium-to-phosphorus balance with prolonged excessive use. Alternate with linseed mash, or always add a small amount of limestone flour (calcium carbonate) as a supplement. Record the quantities and frequency in your horse's EquiSight horse profile so you can easily look back at what you gave and when.

Storing ingredients and food safety

• Store bran and linseed in a dry, sealed bucket or container — moisture causes mould
• Crushed linseed oxidises quickly; buy small quantities and use within 4 weeks of opening
• Always make mash fresh and serve it immediately; leftovers become unsafe after 2 hours due to bacterial growth
• Visually check ingredients for mould or pests before each preparation
• Write the purchase date on the packaging with a marker — so you always know how fresh your stock is