8 Essential Tips for Feeding Your Horse
Providing your horse with the right nutrition is one of the most critical responsibilities of horse ownership. It goes far beyond simply offering hay and grain; a well-balanced diet is the cornerstone of your horse's overall health, happiness, and performance. For many new horse owners, and even some seasoned equestrians, navigating the world of equine nutrition can feel overwhelming. With countless types of hay, feeds, and supplements on the market, it's easy to get lost in a sea of options. However, at its heart, feeding a horse can be broken down into a few fundamental, time-tested principles. By understanding and consistently applying these core rules, you can create a feeding program that not only meets your horse's specific needs but also helps prevent common digestive and metabolic issues like colic, ulcers, and laminitis. This guide will walk you through the best practices for feeding your horse, ensuring they receive the fuel they need to thrive, whether they are a competitive athlete, a growing youngster, or a beloved pasture companion.
1. Forage is the Foundation (and the Bulk) of the Diet
This is the most important rule. Horses are "trickle feeders," meaning they are designed to graze small amounts of food almost continuously throughout the day. Their digestive system is built to process a high-fiber diet. You should feed plenty of hay or pasture, aiming for your horse to eat 1.5% to 2% of its body weight in forage per day. For a 1,000-pound horse, that's 15 to 20 pounds of hay. Providing free-choice hay, or using slow-feed nets, encourages your horse to eat in a natural, consistent pattern. This helps prevent boredom and reduces the risk of digestive issues like colic and ulcers. Remember, the quality of your hay is critical. Avoid hay that is dusty, moldy, or has a foul smell, as this can cause respiratory and digestive problems.
2. Feed Little and Often
A horse's stomach is relatively small. Feeding large grain meals at once can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to inefficient digestion and increasing the risk of colic and laminitis. If your horse requires a concentrated feed, split their daily ration into two or three smaller meals. Feeding more often is always better for the horse's digestive health. A good general rule is to never feed more than 5 pounds of grain at a time. If your horse needs a large amount of grain, spread it out over multiple feedings.
3. Make Changes Gradually
A horse's gut contains a delicate balance of microbes that need time to adjust to new food sources. Sudden changes can disrupt this balance and cause serious health problems. When changing the type or brand of feed, or introducing new hay, do so over a period of 7 to 14 days. Gradually mix the new feed with the old feed, increasing the proportion of the new feed each day. This rule applies not just to grain, but also to hay, supplements, and even lush new pasture in the spring.
4. Provide Constant Access to Clean, Fresh Water
Water is the most important nutrient for a horse. Dehydration can quickly lead to colic and other health issues. Your horse should have access to clean water at all times. You should check and clean water buckets and troughs daily to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. In winter, make sure the water is not frozen.
5. Feed According to Workload, Age, and Condition
Not all horses have the same nutritional needs. A show jumper will need a different diet than a retired pasture companion. You should regularly monitor your horse's body condition score. A horse that is too thin needs more calories, while an overweight horse needs a restricted diet. If you are unsure, consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the right balance of forage, concentrates, and supplements for your horse's individual needs. Be on the lookout for red flags—a diet that is too high in sugar and starch can lead to excitability or conditions like tying-up, gastric ulcers, and laminitis.
6. Measure Your Feed by Weight, Not Volume
A scoop of one type of grain can weigh significantly more than a scoop of another. Using a kitchen or feed scale to weigh your horse's ration ensures consistency and accuracy. You should weigh a single scoop of each type of feed you use to determine its weight. This will help you give your horse the exact amount they need, as specified by the manufacturer's feeding guidelines.
7. Consistency is Key
Horses are creatures of habit. A consistent feeding schedule helps them feel secure and reduces stress. You should stick to a routine and feed your horse at roughly the same time each day. This helps regulate their digestive system and prevents stress-related behaviors.
8. Mind the "Cool Down" Rule
Avoid feeding large grain meals to a horse who is hot and tired after exercise. After a hard workout, let your horse cool down and have a drink of water before offering a full grain meal. Feeding a small amount of forage beforehand is fine, as it can help prevent gastric acid splash in the stomach.
By following these fundamental principles, you will be well on your way to providing a safe, balanced, and effective diet for your horse.
