What is the main disadvantage of feeding whole corn to horses?

Feeding whole corn to horses presents significant concerns related to its digestibility. Horses are monogastric animals, meaning their digestive system is not designed to process large grains like corn in its whole form efficiently. The hard outer shell of whole corn makes it difficult for horses to break down and digest, leading to inadequate nutrient absorption. This can result in an imbalance in their diet and potentially cause digestive issues, such as colic.

Whole corn can pass through the digestive tract without being fully utilized, which is detrimental to a horse's health. Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining their energy levels, weight, and overall well-being, so the inability to digest whole corn effectively makes it a poor choice compared to other feed options.

While options such as choking or expense may be of concern, the primary issue with whole corn lies in its digestibility and the consequent risk of nutritional deficiency.