I am religious with Alfalfa. My horses are paddoc kept, and have free choice, compressed alfalfa blocks. Averaging around 700lbs. Grain is not given often, and when it is, its always a super low protein. The horses are ridden several times weekly. One of the mares on the alfalfa block has had problems with her rear legs "locking up" after a good ride. She has been off and on the alfalfa several times but is a hard keeper. Now back on the alfalfa, her back legs are locking up again....I was looking to find someone that might know of or be having the same issues? Should she come off of the alfalfa completely? The mare is always properly legged and warmed up before any vigerous activity. She is HYPP neg. She is paint & paso fino. 14.1 hands tall, roughly 900lbs, and 6 years old. Any information will help, Thanks.

I don't have specific experience with a situation like this, but I do know that alfalfa is awfully rich. We feed a good quality hay, and there is a bit of alfalfa to it, but straight alfalfa is saved for building weight and pregnant mares, and even then we don't feed it constantly. I would talk with your vet about this issue.

I would talk to your vet just to be sure. I personally do not, and would not feed pure alfalfa. It is very rich, can make a horse "hot" and can possibly cause health issues down the road after feeding for many years.