What is a potential health risk associated with feeding horses high levels of grass hay?

Feeding horses high levels of grass hay can lead to several potential health issues, but when considering the specific choice that emphasizes a potential health risk, allergies can be correlated. Some horses may develop allergies or sensitivities to certain types of grass, which could be exacerbated by high levels of exposure in their diet. Symptoms might include respiratory issues or skin reactions due to allergens present in the hay.

However, it is also crucial to consider that high grass hay consumption can lead to other significant health concerns such as obesity, colic, and laminitis due to excessive nutrient intake, changes in digestive function, or other metabolic processes. In particular, obesity can place stress on a horse’s joints and overall health, while laminitis, a serious condition affecting the hoof, is closely related to dietary imbalances, especially in horses that are prone to metabolic disorders.

Understanding that while allergies can occur, the broader health implications of feeding high grass hay are often more tied to metabolic and digestive issues. Thus, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet tailored to the individual horse's health needs and to monitor for any symptoms of allergies that may arise.