A Comprehensive Guide to What Horses Eat and Drink

Horses, as herbivores, primarily consume plant-based materials. Their dietary requirements vary based on their age, size, and activity level. Understanding the best feeding practices is crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of your equine partner.

The Foundation: Hay and Pasture Grasses

Horses should mainly be fed hay and pasture grasses. These provide the necessary fiber and nutrients to maintain digestive health. High-quality hay, such as timothy or grass hay, is preferred over alfalfa as it is less rich and safer for most horses. Ensure the hay is free from mold, dust, and weeds.

Introducing Pasture Grass

When introducing pasture grass, do so gradually. Horses accustomed to a hay diet need time to adjust to grazing grass. Limit initial access to grass and monitor for any signs of digestive distress, as sudden changes can be harmful. Once the horse has adapted, gradually increase access time.

Supplements and Grain

For horses requiring additional weight gain or high energy due to intensive training or performance, grain can be a beneficial supplement. Grain types include oats, corn, and wheat. However, it should be introduced slowly, especially in horses not used to it, to avoid digestive issues.

Oats: Preferred by most horses due to their digestibility and mild energy boost. Grain Mixtures: Can be used for calorie and nutrient enrichment.

Horses should never be given sudden changes in diet, as this can lead to energy fluctuations and overexcitement, making them harder to handle. Moderate quantities are crucial for maintaining temperament and performance.

Specific Feeding Considerations

Horses with specific needs, such as nursing mares or underweight foals, should be provided with a specialized diet. Older, overweight, or less active horses may need smaller portions or minimal hay access to prevent obesity and maintain good health.

Special Cases: Nursing Mares and Overweight Horses

Nursing mares can lose significant weight rapidly, necessitating a high-calorie diet. For example, a mare nursing a foal might benefit from a mix of alfalfa hay, oats, molasses, and supplements. However, it is essential to ensure the mare does not become overly fat, as excessive weight can be detrimental to their health and comfort.

Water and Mineral Intake

Access to clean, fresh water is critical at all times. Horses need to drink a significant amount of water, especially after eating, to prevent digestive issues. Additionally, providing a salt block with essential minerals can help balance their electrolyte levels and support overall wellness.

Expert Consultation

Determining the specific nutritional needs of your horse should involve consulting with a veterinarian or an equine nutritionist. These professionals can provide tailored recommendations based on the individual horse's health and dietary requirements.

Remember, gradual changes to the diet are vital to prevent digestive upset. By providing a balanced diet of hay, pasture grass, and appropriate grain, along with access to clean water and minerals, you can support your horse's health and happiness.