Need more info on a horse?

Question

Well I just asked a question a little while ago because I was concerned with my horses health and that I thought he was sick so when I talked to my uncle about I didn't think to ask him about a medical report so he told me to read his report before we spend a whole bunch of money on a vet, and there's nothing there that claims he has any tumors or that he is sickly so he's probably just adjusting to his new home, I just got him yesterday but I'm so excited about having a horse I won't stay out of his face lol. Well since I don't really know anything about horses, is it okay for me to leave him in his stable unless I am riding him, and yesterday I fed him an apple and then earlier today I fed him a carrot and he's been eating grass for the most part. But if I'm going to be away for most of the time, should I leave him in his stable? And I've noticed he's chewing on his wood too is that normal?

Answer 1

I didn't see your other question, and this one isn't very clear. Anyway, to answer what I think your Q is:

He cannot stay in his stable 24/7. He can be stabled overnight if needs be, but he'll probably be better off living out. What was he doing in his previous home? If you email me your email address I'll send you my booklet on horse care.

Chewing on wood is a sign of boredom.

Answer 2

Im kinda in a hurry so I just scanned.

Um, if a horse chews its bored so you should get it some stables toys and things.

And they should never be cooped up for so long, they need excersize ,and lots of it. And grazing in the pastures.

Answer 3

You can leave him in his stall for a short while if you're unsure about the fencing or need him to get adjusted to him a little.  Horses are healthiest though when they are on pasture.  If you have safe fences and a safe pasture - and he's used to being on pasture - by all means - let him be outside!  If he's used to being inside for a large percentage of the day - then yes, keep him in - but slowly work on transfering him outside.  Work your way up from a few hours a day to being out all day.  Don't just throw him outside 24/7 or you'll be at risk for dealing with laminitis.

If he's live on pasture - don't keep him inside all the time.  Horses in the wild are meant to eat 18 hours a day and roam approximately 6 miles a day.  They don't eat for that long of period or roam that far.  It's essential for their digestive system that they're able to do this.  If your horse is used to being on pasture and you start to keep him in his stall 24/7 - you could greatly increase the incidence of colic or laminitis.

Yes - you can give him treats - you dont want a large percentage of his diet to be treats - but one or two treats a day is totally fine.

Chewing on the wood is normal - usually it's a sign that he's bored.  He'll probably be happier outside if possible.  Best wishes!