Horse Nutrition Guide: What to Feed Your Horse for Optimal Health
Everything you need to know about feeding your horse the right way — from hay and grains to supplements and daily routines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Horse Nutrition
What is the best diet for a horse?
The best diet for a horse is based primarily on forage — quality hay or pasture grass — making up at least 70% of their intake. Concentrates such as grains or pellets should only be added when needed for extra energy.
How much hay does a horse need per day?
Most horses need 1.5–2% of their body weight in forage daily. For a 500 kg (1,100 lb) horse, that equals about 7.5–10 kg (16–22 lb) of hay per day.
Should horses eat grain every day?
Not all horses need grain. Horses in light work can often thrive on forage alone, while performance horses may need added grain for energy. Grain should always be introduced gradually and never exceed safe amounts.
What supplements are good for horses?
Popular supplements include biotin for hoof health, omega-3 oils for coat condition, and electrolyte mixes for horses in heavy training. Always consult a vet before adding supplements to your horse’s diet.
The Basics of Horse Nutrition
Feeding your horse properly is essential for long-term health, performance, and overall well-being. A horse’s diet should be built around three main elements: forage, concentrates, and water.
- Forage: High-quality hay and pasture grass should form the bulk of any horse’s diet.
- Concentrates: Grains and commercial pellets provide extra energy when required.
- Water & Salt: Horses need constant access to fresh water and salt blocks to stay hydrated and balanced.
Feeding According to Activity Level
Not all horses have the same energy demands. Feeding should match their workload:
- Leisure Horses: Often thrive on forage alone, with minimal concentrates.
- Sport & Competition Horses: Require additional calories, often from oats, barley, or specialized mixes.
- Seniors: May benefit from easily digestible fiber sources and senior feeds.
Supplements and Vitamins
Supplements are not always necessary but can support specific needs. Common examples include:
- Biotin for stronger hooves
- Electrolytes for horses in heavy training
- Omega-3 oils for joint and coat health
- Vitamin E for muscle support
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfeeding concentrates, leading to digestive issues
- Providing too little forage, which can cause ulcers
- Feeding irregularly, disrupting the horse’s digestion
- Ignoring changes in workload or season when adjusting feed
