Feeding Mules and Donkeys
- Forage. Studies have shown that donkeys voluntarily consume much less forage compared to horses; 1.5% of body weight...
- Concentrate. While grass and hay is often sufficient to supply the maintenance requirements for most donkeys and mules,...
- Water. The donkey has the ability to continue eating for several days when deprived of drinking water.
What should baby mules eat?
- Warm the bottle before feeding by placing it in a bowl of warm water. ...
- Make sure the bottle nipple is not too large. ...
- Always hold up the bottle high at an angle so that the fawn has to look up to drink. ...
- Stimulate the fawn’s stomach while feeding it by stroking gently. ...
- Fawns have to be trained to poop. ...
Do mules eat hay?
Mules require no fancy hay—just plain, clean, fresh hay suitable for equines. People who buy cheaper weedy hay find that their mules clean out the weeds first. Mules eat less than horses do. Mules that are not working usually don't need grain at all.
Do mules live on farms?
Mules can more easily than horses be handled in large groups. Mules can be corraled on farms 30 or 40 to a group, or up to 500 in a feeding pen, without the injuries or other consequences commonly seen with horses. Mules have a strong sense of self preservation. This is one good reason why mules physically last longer than horses do.
What to feed mules?
What to Avoid
- Lush pastures may be too high in sugar, fructans, starch and protein levels
- Alfalfa is high in protein and generally higher in digestible energy
- Cereal grains (corn, oats, barley, wheat) that are inherently high in starch
- Concentrate feeds, even in small quantities, will likely exceed the energy requirements of most donkeys
- Molasses
- Sweet treats
What do mules like eating?
Mule Diet. With respect to its diet, the mule is no different than its parents. They eat a wide variety of grasses and small shrubs. If they do not have a large enough area to forage successfully, generally one to two acres, then their diet may be supplemented by hay, grain, or pelletized food.
How often do you feed a mule?
We feed a grain mix to our average sized mules of 1-2 cups of crimped oats, 1oz. of a vitamin concentrate such as Sho Glo and 1 oz. Mazola corn oil (for hooves, coat & digestive tract regularity) fed once a day in the evenings and grass hay twice a day. We monitor weight with the hay intake and pasture time.
Do mules need pellets?
Donkeys and mules that are not doing any work should be able to meet all of their nutrient requirements from good grass hay (such as timothy or orchard grass offered from Standlee Premium Western Forage) fed at a rate of 1.5% of body weight and a low-intake ration balancer pellet.
How much food do mules need?
If you plan on keeping your horse, donkey, or mule in a pasture, make sure they still have some sort of cover from the rain and summer sunshine. In general, most donkeys, horses, or mules eat about twenty pounds of food a day. They also need access to around eight gallons of water.
What treats do mules like?
Generally, mules can graze all day on hay or grains, and they can eat anything horses can eat. You can provide treats such as apples, carrots and other fruits or vegetables. Fresh water should always be available. Do not allow mules to go longer than 8 hours without food.
Is alfalfa hay good for mules?
Most mules do well on ordinary timothy or grass hays. They don't need the richer legume hays, such as alfalfa. While mules might consume lesser quality hays without incident, it's not a good idea to feed any equine poor quality hay.
Can mules eat corn?
They can get hyper just like kids who eat TOO MUCH sugar. Corn is good feed to be fed along with good hay and/or grass. It is also more economical usually.
Do mules need salt licks?
A block of salt is better than nothing at all. The best is loose (granular) salt. Donkeys, mules and horses have smoother tongues than a cow and may not actually get their needed amount of salt from a block. They may end up biting the block in an attempt to get more, which can lead to teeth and jaw or tooth problems.
Do mules eat grain?
If the animal is not fed enough grain, he will first burn body fat for energy and then burn muscular tissue and this will result in a thin and less effective riding mule. Mules are very easy keepers. I have told people for years that you can feed two mules for the same amount of money it takes to feed one horse.
Do mules like carrots?
Just like donkeys, mules eat carrots. They have all the same benefits and are also tasty. But you want to be careful not to overfeed them too.
What's the life expectancy of a mule?
between 35 and 40 yearsMules can live up to 50 years Although the average lifespan for mules is between 35 and 40 years, some mules have been known to live until 50, especially if well looked after.
Are mules hard to keep?
Conclusion. Mules are tough and both easier and cheaper to keep than horses. They're bigger than donkeys so more suited to ridden work. If trained correctly, they can excel at almost any discipline, from jumping to draft work.
What supplements are good for mules?
Mules in training or heavy exercise may thrive on special dietary attention and supplementation to support athleticism, muscle recovery and longevity including the addition of alfalfa, flax oil, joint-supporting nutrients, probiotics and ulcer support formulas and antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium.
What is the best food for donkeys?
Concentrate feeds, even in small quantities, will likely exceed the energy requirements of most donkeys. Molasses. Sweet treats.
Why do donkeys need more energy?
Winter and cold weather may increase caloric needs and higher hay levels may be used. Some donkeys may require higher energy levels to support growth , pregnancy, lactation, performance or work-load needs.
Why do donkeys need less protein than horses?
Donkeys also require less protein than horses as they have an enhanced ability to recycle nitrogen via the reabsorption of urea —up to 80 percent—created during protein metabolism.
What is the best supplement for donkeys?
Supplements. A comprehensive vitamin and mineral supplement that is nutrient dense but low in carbohydrates to safely balance the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids , an essential fat with a wide spectrum of health benefits, especially important for donkeys not on pasture.
What is the best way to keep a donkey?
Keeping donkeys at an ideal body weight is proactive health care and may help to prevent metabolic issues. Using a Body Condition Score (BCS) chart specifically for donkeys, based on 1 to 5 versus the 1 to 9 scale used for horses, can be a great tool for identifying when dietary adjustments are needed. Although they are famously “easy keepers,” ...
Do donkeys drink more water?
Donkeys require about the same amount of water per body weight as a horse, and will drink more if in work or in a hot, humid environment. However, having evolved in hot climates, donkeys are capable of fascinating water preservation. They tend to sweat less and fully utilize more water internally and excrete less.
How much protein do mules need?
Foals and weanlings need around 16% protein while mature mules can get by on 8% protein. It is very difficult to know just what vitamins you are getting from a bale of hay. With pellets you just read the label. For instance selenium in the soil varies greatly from place to place.
How many days a week do mules and horses eat?
Most mules and horses stand around five days a week. They eat, drink, and sleep — and get ready for the next meal (just like most Americans these days). The good feed we are on, if not combined with exercise, results in overeating and over weight.
What did Ann do for Norman at Bishop's Mule Days?
Ann spent most days in the saddle. As with any colt, she was feeding him good alfalfa hay and some grain to keep his energy level up. She also added some grass hay.
Why should grass clippings not be fed?
Grass clippings should not be fed for a multitude of reasons but mostly because they have weed killers and fungicides that can be toxic to mules or horses. Grass clippings are prone to cause choking because the animals do not have to chew in order to swallow.
What are the pellets used in mule riding?
Some pellets include grains, corn, wheat bran, cottonseed meal, etc. These types of pellets are necessary for hard working animals. If the animal is not fed enough grain, he will first burn body fat for energy and then burn muscular tissue and this will result in a thin and less effective riding mule.
Can you feed two mules?
Mules are very easy keepers. I have told people for years that you can feed two mules for the same amount of money it takes to feed one horse. I have proven my theory with my own tests done over the years. I have found that mules will thrive on a good quality grass hay along with a salt block.
Can mules stand prosperity?
Mules Can’t Stand Prosperity — Feed and Nutrition. One of the most common questions I receive has to do with mule and donkey feed and nutrition. Folks want to do right by their animals and make sure they are getting exactly what they need. This article is all about the misconceptions people have about feed and what is good for the animal.
What do mules and donkeys eat?
Mules & donkeys are members of the equine family along with horses, ponies, zebras. Most people think you can feed them a diet similar to horses but in lower quantity. Donkeys however have unique evolutionary traits that make them anatomically and behaviorally distinct. Donkeys are highly adaptable feeders that if given the opportunity will consume a variety of different grasses and shrubs to obtain sufficient nutrients. It is generally accepted that the donkey can exist with less food than a horse. Donkeys and mules can utilize more mature, less digestible, more fibrous plant material than a horse. They are able metabolize their feed very efficiently and can be overfed very easily. The donkeys’ efficient utilization of food makes them “easy keepers.” However, don’t let the term misguide, you. It is important to take care in determining when and how much to feed a donkey. Obesity is a major concern in modern domesticated donkeys and mules.
What is the best feed for donkeys?
While grass and hay is most often sufficient to supply the maintenance requirements for most donkeys and mules, additional supplementation in the form of concentrate feeds may be needed when donkeys cannot eat sufficient forage to meet nutrient requirements.
What is LMF feed?
LMF Feeds offers an excellent option for feeding donkeys to avoid obesity and maintain health. LMF Super Supplement G is ideal for most donkeys and mules. The Basics. Management. Feed Ingredients. Disciplines. Breeding.
What are the challenges of a donkey?
Nutritional Disorders. Obesity is the biggest challenge facing most non-working donkeys and mules kept in areas of the world where food sources are abundant and of good quality. Emaciation is very common in most areas where donkeys are used heavily for work and food is scarce and of poor quality.
What classes of donkeys need concentrate feeding?
Classes of donkeys and mules that need concentrate feeding include those that are working heavily, pregnant, lactating, growing or senior. The amount of concentrate that should be provided is determined by the BW and physiological state of the animal.
How do donkeys conserve water?
It has been suggested that donkeys have the ability to conserve internal water stores and avoid thirst by reducing sweating for temperature control and reducing the amount of water lost in man ure.
What is the water requirement for donkeys?
Donkeys have the lowest water requirements of all domestic animals with the exception of camels. Under hot conditions (85°F to 100°F) donkeys consumed water at a rate of 9% of BW per day. Under cooler conditions donkeys consumed water at a rate of 4-5% of their BW per day.
What do you know about mules?
What You Must Know About Keeping Mules. You probably know the expression, "Stubborn as a Mule.". Mules, the result of crossing a male Donkey and a female horse are renowned for being somewhat obstinate. However, this isn't necessarily the case when you know how to handle a mule correctly.
How much does a mule weigh?
Mule Physiology. The average weight for a mule is between 750 -1000 lbs. Mules, much like their donkey sires, tend to require less food than a horse. The mule has a short, thick head, very long ears, relatively thin limbs, small sturdy hooves and a short thick mane - very similar to a donkey.
Why are mules considered a working animal?
The mule is regularly chosen as a working animal due to its great temperament, sturdiness and sure footed abilities. Their hooves and coats are extremely hardy. Mules are strong animals who can work in all conditions and weather. Often more intelligent than their parents, mules tend to enjoy social interaction.
How much weight can a mule carry?
As a general rule they can carry or haul approximately 30% of their body weight. Mules are essentially sterile: the males cannot sire young and it is unusual for the mares to have estrus cycles. However, the occasional female mule that is capable of estrus is called a "Molly.".
What is a mule in the parade?
The event also hosts the biggest non-motorized parade in the US. Mules are cross between a male donkey, a "Jack" and the female horse, a mare. They are classed as an Equine but are very different to horses, the build and characteristics of the mule largely coming from the "dam" or mother.
Why is it called "stubborn as a mule"?
The saying "stubborn as a mule,“ rarely applies. A mule will work hard, but this saying likely comes from the ability of the mule to resist abuse.
What is the difference between a mule and a horse?
In other words, horses are far more forgiving about mediocre training whereas mules can become permanently difficult when trained improperly.
What is a mule?
Mules are durable, versatile creatures that are used for packing, riding, and other chores on the farm. A mule has a donkey father and a horse mother, and you can spot one by the long ears and short mane. Amy McLean is an equine reproduction specialist at the University of California-Davis and a board member of the American Mule Association.
Do mules have a good memory?
But with some patience and kindness, they'll learn to trust and obey you. Mules also have a good memory, so if you cause them any pain, they'll remember it and hold a grudge. Horses, sheep, goats, and cattle will enjoy having a mule around, but mules are somewhat territorial.
Can mules become diabetic?
Mules are very efficient eaters and can survive on lower quality forages and feed. They can become diabetic if you overfeed them, especially if you feed a lot of alfalfa and grain.
Where do mules roll?
Many mules and donkeys can be seen with a roll at the crest of the neck and sometimes “fat rolls” on the flank and croup. This is not healthy and is a red flag that the equine needs to be contained and monitored for weight control.
What are the first 7 DVDs for mules?
The first 7 DVDs are designed for both mules and donkeys’ basic training. They are to be taken in sequence beginning with DVD #1 whether your mule is a foal or older animal that needs better training. DVD #8 is on management, fitting, grooming and advanced showmanship.
Why do donkeys need less feed than horses?
Mules and donkeys require a lot less feed than horses because they are half donkey and donkeys are desert animals. Too much feed or the wrong kind of feed and they can run the risk of colic, or founder.
What to do with an older equin with limited teeth?
The other thing we do for older equines with limited teeth is give them grass hay to chew on during the day to prevent nervous behaviors that can arise from a lack of grazing time as long as it does not negatively affect their weight gain, or loss.
Can you feed a longear?
Consult your veterinarian for the types of vaccines you will need for your area. You should never feed Longears (donkeys, or mules) any pre-mixed sweet feeds, or products high in alfalfa. Equines in general and especially pregnant equines, should never be turned out in a pasture with Fescue grass.
Is it safe to have mules on pasture?
Answer: Answer: Being on pasture twenty-four seven is not healthy for mules. They can build up fatty deposits and develop a pre-founder condition, and because of the wide open spaces, they don’t get the regular close engagement with the handler to really develop a good relationship with the handler.
Can you feed a donkey and a mule?
Donkeys are desert animals and require much less than horses to stay healthy. The mule, being half donkey, also does not need as much to stay healthy. For this reason, it is best to contain your longears (and even horses) in a smaller area with shelter overnight ...
Why can't mules beat into submission?
That's only because a mule can't be beat into submission the way a horse can. A mule will also remember the rudeness/meanness that a person deals them. They are not anymore pushy or in my personal space than any horse I have is and that is because they are not allowed to be.
Is grass clippings bad for horses?
I'm not sure where you're getting your information but grass clippings are bad for horses because they'll founder and mules can too but they also don't need that much compressed feed.#N#We just keep ours out on decent pasture (not lawn, which has little nutritional value) when we have pasture and in the winter, they're fed with the cows.#N#You have to watch the information you're getting because it comes from various locations and often people forget that a cold climate changes feeding rules. Two flakes of hay might work nice in Florida, but it's not going to keep mine alive when it's -40.