Horse Feed Buying Guide: Everything you need to know

Horse owners have many questions about buying the best horse feed for their animal, and it can be a daunting task. From figuring out what type of feed to buy and how much to get, to understanding the nutritional needs of horses and ensuring that you’re making the right choices, there is a lot to consider when shopping for horse feed. This guide will provide the answers to all of your questions about buying and feeding horses, so that you can ensure your equine friend gets the nutrition they need.

What type of feed should I buy for my horse?

The most important thing to consider when choosing a type of feed for your horse is their individual nutritional needs. Factors such as age, activity level, and health condition can all play a role in the type of feed you should choose for your horse. Horses generally require hay or grass for roughage, grain for energy and protein, minerals for growth and development, and vitamins to promote overall health. You can either buy commercial feeds with all of these ingredients or you can mix and match individual components to best meet your horse’s specific needs.

How much feed should I give my horse?

The amount of feed you should give your horse depends on their size, age, activity level, and health condition. Generally speaking, adult horses require between 1.5% and 3% of their body weight in feed per day, divided into three or four meals. Yearlings and foals should be fed up to twice as much as adult horses, depending on their growth rate, while senior horses may need slightly less. Always consult with your veterinarian or a nutritionist before making any changes to your horse’s diet.

What is the best way to feed my horse?

The best way to feed your horse is with a combination of hay, grain, and other supplements. It’s important to provide roughage in the form of hay or grass as it helps stimulate saliva production and lubricate the digestive tract. Grain should be fed as a concentrate to provide energy and protein, and additional vitamins and minerals can be added if necessary. The amount of hay, grain, and other supplements you feed your horse will depend on their individual needs and should always be discussed with a veterinarian or nutritionist before making any changes.

What type of hay is best for my horse?

When choosing a type of hay for your horse, it’s important to consider the quality and nutrient content. Good-quality hay should be green and leafy with few stems, seeds, or weeds. Legume hays such as alfalfa are higher in protein and calcium than grass hays, so they may be beneficial for younger horses or those with higher nutrient requirements. Grass hay is usually lower in protein and calcium but still provides good roughage and can be a great choice for most adult horses.

What type of grain should I feed my horse?

Grains are an important part of a horse’s diet and should be fed as a concentrate. The type of grain you feed your horse will depend on their individual needs, but oats are generally the best choice for most horses. Oats provide good energy and protein and can help promote weight gain in underweight horses or maintain a healthy weight in those that tend to put on too much weight. Barley, corn, and wheat are all good alternatives and can be fed in addition to oats or as a substitute for those with allergies or metabolic issues.

What other supplements should I feed my horse?

The amount and type of supplements you feed your horse will depend on their individual needs, but there are several common supplements that can be beneficial for most horses. Mineral supplements such as salt and trace minerals should be offered to promote overall health, while joint supplements can help maintain healthy joints and alleviate stiffness or discomfort. Probiotics are also a great choice for promoting digestive health, and antioxidant supplements may be helpful in improving immune system health. Always consult with your veterinarian or nutritionist before introducing any supplements to your horse’s diet.

How often should I feed my horse?

Most horses do best when fed two to three times a day, depending on their individual needs and preferences. Feeding in small amounts throughout the day allows for more efficient digestion and can help prevent overeating. It’s also important to provide ample opportunity for your horse to rest and digest between meals, so make sure you’re allowing at least four hours between feedings.

How much water does my horse need?

Horses require a large amount of water on a daily basis. An average-sized horse will typically drink between 10 and 12 gallons of water each day, so it’s important to make sure your horse has access to fresh, clean water at all times. If you’re feeding a high-fiber diet, it may be necessary to increase the amount of water offered as fiber requires more water for digestion. 

What type of hay rack should I use?

Hay racks can be a great way to provide your horse with easy access to hay without making a mess. Traditional hay racks are designed to hang from the wall or ceiling and allow the horse to reach up and pull down the hay as needed. There are also slow-feed hay racks that regulate the amount of hay dispensed and can help prevent overeating. It’s important to choose a hay rack that is well-built and designed to withstand your horse’s weight, as poorly made hay racks can easily be pulled apart or tipped over.

How often should I replace my horse’s bedding?

Horse bedding should be changed or replaced on a daily basis to ensure that your horse is comfortable and healthy. If you’re using straw, it should be completely replaced every few days as it can become matted down over time and lose its insulating properties. Wood shavings are generally considered the best option for bedding, and should be replaced every few days or as needed.

How often should I groom my horse?

Grooming is an important part of keeping your horse healthy and comfortable. It’s best to brush your horse at least once a day, with extra brushing before and after rides or competitions. Grooming also helps remove dirt, debris, and excess hair from your horse’s coat, allowing it to stay in good condition.

How can I keep flies away from my horse?

Flies are one of the most common pests found around horses, but there are several things you can do to help keep them away. Fly masks and sheets can be used to cover your horse’s head and body, providing protection from bites. Fly traps are also effective at catching and killing flies in the area, while fly sprays can help repel them from your horse. Finally, make sure you’re cleaning up any spilled feed or manure as quickly as possible to reduce the number of flies in the area.

Is it safe to feed my horse treats?

Treats can be a great way to reward your horse and encourage good behavior, but it’s important to make sure you’re feeding healthy snacks. Avoid feeding sugary treats, as these can cause digestive upset and weight gain. Instead, opt for healthy snacks like carrots or apples that are low in sugar and high in fiber.

How often should my horse be vaccinated?

Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your horse healthy and protecting him from diseases. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the right vaccination schedule for your horse. Generally, most horses will need to be vaccinated at least once a year for common diseases like tetanus and West Nile Virus.

What should I do if my horse is showing signs of colic?

Colic is a potentially life-threatening condition that can affect horses of all ages. If your horse is exhibiting signs of colic, such as rolling, pawing at the ground, or showing signs of abdominal pain, it’s important to call your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to provide advice on how to best manage the situation and determine the cause of the colic.

Taking care of a horse is no small task, and it requires dedication and commitment to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your animal. From day-to-day grooming to long term health issues, it’s important to understand the needs of your horse in order to keep him healthy and happy. Learning the basics of horse care can help ensure that your horse is well-cared for and can lead to a long and happy life together.