What is the recommended feeding frequency for ponies?

The recommended feeding frequency of "little and often" for ponies is important due to several factors related to their digestive system and overall health. Ponies are designed to graze continuously throughout the day, which mirrors their natural behavior of consuming small amounts of forage frequently.

Feeding them little and often helps to prevent digestive issues such as colic or laminitis, which can occur if they consume large meals infrequently. This approach promotes a stable environment in the digestive tract, helping the pony to better process food. It also assists in maintaining consistent energy levels and can support weight management, particularly in ponies that are prone to obesity.

In contrast, feeding once a day can lead to overeating in a single sitting, which is not in line with their natural habits and could result in health problems. Feeding every other day or allowing access to food only when the pony feels hungry interrupts their natural grazing pattern and can cause stress and discomfort. Thus, the practice of feeding ponies little and often is the best way to ensure their health and well-being.