When it comes to horse ownership, one of the top priorities is ensuring that your horse has a healthy, nutritious diet. With many different types of food and supplements available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to begin. This guide, brought to you by How to Own a Horse, will provide the essential information on providing a balanced diet to support your horse's well-being and overall health.
Food For Horses Table of Contents
While horses are natural grazers, their nutritional needs can vary depending on various factors such as breed, age, activity level and climate. It is important to consider these factors when planning a diet that optimally fuels your horse and provides all the essential nutrients.
Forage
The foundation of a horse's diet is forage, which includes hay and grass. Roughage should make up 1-2% of the horse's body weight per day, ideally provided in small, frequent meals to mimic their natural grazing habits. There are many types of hay available, with the most common being alfalfa, timothy, and Bermuda grass hay. It is important to select clean, fresh hay that is free of mould, dust, and weeds.
Concentrates
Some horses may require additional calorie sources, particularly those involved in regular exercise or are unable to maintain their weight on forage alone. Concentrate feeds, such as pellets and grain mixes, can provide extra vitamins, minerals and energy. It is essential to avoid over-feeding concentrates, as this can lead to digestive and health issues. Generally, 1-1.5kg of feed per 100kg of body weight is sufficient for most horses. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and adjust as needed to suit your horse's specific requirements.
Fruits and Vegetables
Horses can also benefit from fruits and vegetables as occasional treats, providing additional vitamins and minerals. Apples, carrots and bananas are popular choices, but it is important to avoid giving large amounts and limiting certain items such as tomatoes, which are toxic to horses.
Supplements
Vitamins, minerals and amino acids are crucial for maintaining a horse's overall health. While most fortified feeds will include these nutrients, it may be necessary to provide additional supplementation depending on your horse's needs. Common supplements include biotin for hoof and coat health, joint supplements for equine athletes, and electrolytes for those enduring hot climates or heavy workloads. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your horse requires supplementation and choose the appropriate product.
Food For Horses Example
You've recently purchased a 15-year-old show jumping gelding weighing 550kg. He is active five days per week and requires additional calories to maintain his energy level and healthy weight. To meet his nutritional needs, you'd start with 11-17.5kg of good quality forage daily, mixed with 5.5-8.5kg of pelleted concentrate feed, appropriately divided into multiple meals. After consulting with your veterinarian, you decide to add a joint supplement to support his athleticism, and an electrolyte to replenish his mineral loss during training.
Providing a well-rounded and balanced diet is crucial for maintaining the health and happiness of your equine companion. By considering your horse's specific needs and using this guide, you can confidently navigate the world of horse nutrition and give your horse the diet they deserve. Share this article with fellow horse owners and check out the other helpful guides on How to Own a Horse to continue fostering a loving and knowledgeable partnership with your four-legged friend.
