There are few things in life more important than the food that you feed to your horse. Horses need a lot of calories, and they need to eat a balanced diet in order to stay healthy. There is an overwhelming amount of information on what horses should be eating, but it can be hard to know which sources you can trust. In this horse food guide you will learn all about buying the right kind of food for your horse – from knowing how much they need to eat every day, to understanding the importance of grains versus hay and where the best places are to buy different types of food.
What is Horse Feed?
Horse feed is a type of animal feed specifically formulated for horses. The primary ingredients in horse feed are hay and grain, which provide the horse with essential nutrients like protein, fibre, carbohydrates, and vitamins. In addition to hay and grain, other common ingredients in horse feed include molasses, soybean meal, and mineral supplements.
When choosing a horse feed, it is important to select one that is appropriate for the age and activity level of your horse. For example, foals and ponies require a different type of feed than adult horses. Factors like climate and available grazing also play a role in choosing the right horse feed.
It is also important to consider the type of feeding system you have in place. If you are using a hay net or slow-feeder hay bag, make sure the holes are small enough so that your horse can’t gulp down too much hay at once. This can lead to digestive problems like colic.
If you have any questions about what type of horse feed is right for your horse, consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist.
The Different Types of Horse Feed
There are many different types of horse feeds available on the market, and choosing the right one for your horse can be a difficult task. Here is a guide to the different types of horse feeds and what they are best used for:
1. Grass hay – This is the most common type of hay fed to horses and is high in fibre and low in protein. It is a good source of energy and helps keep horses warm in the winter.
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Petlife Oxbow Orchard Grass Hay for Small Pet, 1.13 kg | £16.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Oxbow Orchard Grass Hay, 425 g | £7.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Excel Burgess Long Stem Feeding Hay, Transparent, 1 kg (Pack of 1) | £7.49 | Buy on Amazon |
2. Alfalfa hay – This type of hay is higher in protein than grass hay and is often fed to pregnant mares or growing foals. It can also be fed to performance horses as it provides a good source of energy.
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Oxbow Alfalfa Hay, 425 g | £7.49 | Buy on Amazon |
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Kaytee Natural Alfalfa Hay Mini Bales High Fibre Food, 680 g | £13.26 | Buy on Amazon |
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Kaytee Alfalfa Cubes, 15-oz bag | £5.85 | Buy on Amazon |
3. Oat hay – This type of hay is lower in protein than grass or alfalfa hay but is higher in carbohydrates, making it a good choice for horses that need an extra boost of energy. It can also be helpful for horses that are struggling to maintain their weight.
4. Timothy hay – This type of hay is similar to oat hay but has a lower carbohydrate content, making it a good choice for horses that are prone to obesity or laminitis.
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Supreme Science Selective Timothy Hay 1.5kg,Brown | £10.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Supreme Petfoods Supreme Science Selective Timothy Hay 2kg | £13.49 | Buy on Amazon |
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Supreme Petfoods Science Selective Timothy Hay 2kg, natural | £14.09 | Buy on Amazon |
5. Beet pulp – Beet pulp is a by-product of sugar beet processing and is high in fibre and low in sugar. It is often used as a supplement to other feeds or as an alternative to grain products.
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SPEEDI-BEET HORSE FEED QUICK SOAKING BEET PULP FLAKES NO MOLASSES FOR LAMINITIS | £30.69 | Buy on Amazon |
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British Horse Feeds Fibre-Beet 20kg | £27.75 | Buy on Amazon |
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Sugar beet Speedibeet Horse Food, 20 kg | £28.98 | Buy on Amazon |
6. Bran – Bran is another by-product of grain processing and is high in fibre. It can be used as a supplement to other feeds or as an alternative to grain products.
7. Soybean meal – Soybean meal is a high-protein feed that is often used as a supplement to other feeds. It is also sometimes used as an alternative to grain products.
8. Corn – Corn is a high-carbohydrate feed that is often used as a supplement to other feeds or as an alternative to grain products.
9. Wheat – Wheat is a high-carbohydrate feed that is often used as a supplement to other feeds or as an alternative to grain products.
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Burnhills Wheat Bran - Horse Feed 20Kg | £21.34 | Buy on Amazon |
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Heygates Wheat Bran 20kg | £22.25 | Buy on Amazon |
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Allen & Page Calm and Condition Horse Feed, 20 kg | £24.95 | Buy on Amazon |
10. Rice bran – Rice bran is a by-product of rice processing and is high in fibre. It can be used as a supplement to other feeds or as an alternative to grain products.
How to Choose Horse Feed
When it comes to choosing horse feed, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to know what kind of horse you have. There are different types of horses, and each type has different nutritional needs. For example, a racing horse will need a different diet than a show horse.
Second, you need to know what your horse’s activity level is. A horse that is only used for occasional riding will have different dietary needs than a horse that is used for competition.
Third, you need to consider the age of your horse. A young horse will have different nutritional needs than an older horse.
Fourth, you need to think about the climate where you live. If you live in a hot climate, your horse will need more water than if you live in a cold climate.
Finally, you need to choose a reputable brand of horse feed. There are many brands on the market, so do some research to find one that is right for your horse.
What to Look for When Choosing Horse Feed
When it comes to choosing horse feed, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here are a few things to look for when choosing horse feed:
- The type of feed – There are many different types of horse feeds available on the market. You need to choose the right type of feed for your horse based on their individual needs.
- The ingredients – Make sure you check the label of the horse feed to see what ingredients are included. You want to make sure the feed includes all of the necessary nutrients your horse needs.
- The price – Horse feeds can vary in price depending on the brand and quality. You’ll need to find a balance between affordability and quality when it comes to choosing horse feed.
- The manufacturer – Do some research on the manufacturer of the horse feed to make sure they’re reputable and have a good track record.
- The reviews – Take some time to read reviews of the horse feed before you make your purchase. This will give you a good idea of what other people think of the product.
How to Feed Your Horse
If you’re like most horse owners, you want to make sure your horse is getting the best possible nutrition. Here are a few tips on how to feed your horse:
1. Choose the right type of food. There are many different types of horse feeds available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your horse’s individual needs. If you’re not sure what type of feed to choose, ask your veterinarian or a local equine nutritionist for advice.
2. Feed according to your horse’s age and activity level. Young horses and those who are very active will need more calories than adult horses or those who are less active. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine how much food your horse needs each day.
3. Don’t forget the hay! Hay is an important part of a horse’s diet, providing essential nutrients and fibre. When feeding hay, be sure to offer a variety of types (such as grass, alfalfa, and Timothy hay) and avoid mouldy or dusty hay, which can cause respiratory problems in horses.
4. Give your horse access to clean water at all times. Horses need large amounts of water each day (10-12 gallons for an average-sized adult horse), so be sure their water bucket is always full and clean.
5. Avoid feeding too many treats. While it’s fine to give your horse the occasional treat, don’t overdo it, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. When giving treats, opt for healthy options like carrots, apples, or bananas.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your horse gets the nutrition he or she needs to stay healthy and happy.
How to Figure Out Your Horse’s Energy Requirements
Different horses have different energy requirements depending on their size, age, and activity level. The average horse requires about 2,000 calories per day.
To figure out your horse’s specific energy requirements, you’ll need to consider their weight, age, and activity level. A heavier horse will need more calories than a lighter horse, and a younger horse will need more calories than an older horse. A horse that is used for strenuous activities like racing or jumping will also need more calories than a horse that is mostly inactive.
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can use an online calculator to estimate your horse’s daily calorie needs. Or, you can ask your veterinarian for help in determining your horse’s energy requirements.
It’s important to make sure that your horse is getting enough calories each day, but you also don’t want to overfeed them. If you’re unsure about how much to feed your horse, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and provide a little less food than you think they need. That way, you can avoid the risk of your horse becoming overweight or obese.
What Are the Components of a Good Diet for Horses?
There are a few key components to a good diet for horses. First, they need hay or pasture for grazing. Second, they need a quality grain mix that is high in fibre and low in sugar. Third, they need a vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need. Fourth, they need access to clean water at all times.
What Are the Different Types of Hay?
There are many different types of hay, but the most common are timothy, alfalfa, and brome. Timothy is a grass hay that is high in fibre and low in sugar. Alfalfa is a legume hay that is high in protein and calcium. Brome is a grass hay that is high in fibre and low in sugar.
Types of Cereal Grains for Horses
There are a variety of cereal grains that can be fed to horses, and the type that is best for your horse will depend on a number of factors. The most common cereal grains fed to horses are oats, barley, and corn.
Oats are a highly digestible grain that is low in sugar and starch. They are a good source of energy and contain vitamins and minerals that are essential for horse health. Oats can be fed to horses of all ages and levels of activity.
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Allen & Page Rolled Oats Horse Feed, 20 kg | £24.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Superioats The Naked Oat Superior Oats 25kg | £23.15 | Buy on Amazon |
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SPILLERS Racing Mix Horse Feed, 20KG – High Energy Horse Food – Oat Based Mix for Ultimate... | £24.40 | Buy on Amazon |
Barley is another grain that is high in energy and digestibility. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, but it is higher in sugar than oats. Barley can be fed to horses that are active or working hard, but should be limited for those that are sedentary or overweight.
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Allen & Page Micronised Flaked Barley Horse Feed, 20 kg | £17.89 | Buy on Amazon |
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Dodson & Horrell Barley Rings Complementary Horse Feed, 15 kg | £26.25 | Buy on Amazon |
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Masham Micronized Feeds Flaked Barley 25kg | £27.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Corn is a high-energy grain that is typically used as a supplemental feed for horses. It is important to note that corn should not be the only source of grain in a horse’s diet as it can lead to health problems. Corn can be fed to all horses, but should be given in moderation.
Rye and wheat are other grains that can be fed to horses, but they are not as commonly used as oats, barley, or corn.
The type of cereal grain that is best for your horse will depend on a number of factors, including their age, level of activity, and weight. You should consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine which grain is best for your horse.
Understanding How Ingredients Affect Flavour and Palatability
The quality of the ingredients in your horse’s food is important for two reasons: flavour and palatability. Good-quality ingredients will make your horse’s food more flavourful and palatable, and poor-quality ingredients will make it less so.
There are a few things to keep in mind when considering the quality of ingredients in your horse’s food. First, ingredient quality varies widely from manufacturer to manufacturer. You’ll need to do some research to find a manufacturer whose ingredients meet your standards.
Second, even within a single manufacturer, ingredient quality can vary from batch to batch. This is why it’s important to read labels carefully and choose a food that uses consistent, high-quality ingredients.
Third, the way ingredients are processed can affect their quality. For example, whole grains are generally more nutritious than processed grains. So if you’re looking for the highest-quality ingredients, choose foods that are made with whole grains rather than processed grains.
Fourth, the source of the ingredients matters. Ingredients that come from reputable sources are more likely to be of high quality than those from lesser-known sources.
Keep these factors in mind when choosing horse foods, and remember that ingredient quality can make a big difference in flavour and palatability. Choose foods made with high-quality ingredients, and your horse will enjoy a more delicious and nutritious diet.
Choosing Between Grain Mixes, Concentrates and Feed Additives
When it comes to feeding your horse, you have a few different options. You can choose between grain mixes, concentrates, and feed additives. So, which one is right for your horse?
Grain mix: A grain mix is a blend of different grains, typically corn, oats, and barley. Grain mixes are usually high in carbohydrates and provide horses with a quick source of energy. However, they can also be high in sugar, so if you have a horse that is prone to weight gain or has diabetes, you may want to avoid grain mixes.
Concentrates: Concentrates are feeds that are higher in protein and fat than grains. They are a good option for horses that need more calories, such as working horses or growing horses. However, concentrates should be fed in moderation because they can cause horses to become overweight if they consume too much.
Feed additives: Feed additives are supplements that you add to your horse’s feed to improve their health or performance. For example, you might add vitamin E to help prevent muscle soreness or omega-3 fatty acids to improve joint health. There are many different types of feed additives available, so talk to your veterinarian about which ones might be right for your horse.
What to Look For in Quality Horse Food
There are a few key things to look for when choosing a quality horse food. The first is to make sure the food is nutritionally complete and provides all the nutrients your horse needs to stay healthy. The second is to choose a food that is palatable and appetizing to your horse. Lastly, you’ll want to select a horse food that is easy to digest and won’t cause any stomach upset.
There are a few key things to look for when choosing a horse food. First, you want to make sure the food is nutritionally complete and balanced. This means it should contain all the essential nutrients your horse needs in the right proportions.
Second, you want to choose a horse food that is appropriate for your horse’s life stage. For example, if you have a growing foal, you’ll need a different formula than if you have an adult horse in light work.
Third, you’ll want to consider your horse’s individual needs. If your horse has any health conditions or allergies, you’ll need to choose a food that is specifically tailored to meet those needs.
Finally, you’ll want to think about your own preferences as well. Do you prefer a pellet or extruded feed? Or do you like to mix your own custom ration? There’s no right or wrong answer here, so just choose the type of feed that you and your horse are both happy with!
How to Make a Horse Food List
When it comes to your horse’s diet, you need to be sure that you are providing them with the right nutrients to keep them healthy and happy. One way to do this is to create a horse food list that includes all of the items that your horse needs in their diet. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create a horse food list:
1. The first step is to identify the different types of foods that your horse needs in their diet. You can do this by talking to your veterinarian or doing some research online. Some of the different types of foods that horses need include hay, grain, pellets, vegetables, and fruits.
2. Once you know the different types of foods that your horse needs, you can start creating your list. Start by writing down all of the foods that you already have on hand. Then, add in any additional items that you may need to purchase. Be sure to include the quantity of each item on your list so that you can easily keep track of what you need.
3. Once you have all of the items on your list, cross off anything that is not absolutely essential for your horse’s diet. This will help you narrow down your choices and make it easier to find the right products for your horse.
4. When you are ready to purchase the items on your list, be sure to check with multiple retailers to find the best prices. You can also look for coupons and discounts to
Common Horse Food FAQs
What are the different types of horse food?
The different types of horse food include hay, grain, pellets, and mixes. Hay is the primary source of nutrition for horses and should make up the majority of their diet. Grain is a concentrated source of energy and should be fed in small amounts. Pellets are a type of processed hay that can be a good option for horses that are picky eaters. Mixes are commercial feeds that contain a mix of hay, grain, and other ingredients.
How much food should I feed my horse?
The amount of food you should feed your horse depends on their size, age, activity level, and health status. A general rule of thumb is to feed 1-2% of their body weight per day. For example, if your horse weighs 1000 lbs, they should eat 10-20 lbs of food per day. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the best feeding plan for your horse.
What are some common problems with horse diets?
Some common problems with horse diets include poor quality hay, excessive grain intake, and not enough variety in the diet. Poor quality hay can be low in nutrients and cause digestive problems. Excessive grain intake can lead to obesity and behavioural problems such as hyperactivity. Not enough variety in the diet can result in nutrient deficiencies. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to ensure that your horse’s diet is well balanced and meets their nutritional needs.
What are some common nutritional deficiencies in horses?
Some common nutritional deficiencies in horses include vitamin A, vitamin E, and selenium. Vitamin A is important for vision, immunity, and skin health. Vitamin E is important for muscle health and cellular function. Selenium is important for reproductive health and thyroid function. These nutrients can be found in green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, and fortified feeds. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to ensure that your horse’s diet meets their nutritional needs.
What are some common feed additives for horses?
Some common feed additives for horses include vitamins, minerals, and herbs. Vitamins and minerals can be added to the diet to correct deficiencies or to promote overall health. Herbs can be added to the diet for their medicinal properties or to promote digestive health. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine if feed additives are right for your horse.
What are some common feeding problems in horses?
Some common feeding problems in horses include poor appetite, colic, and choke. Poor appetite can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, illness, or poor dental health. Colic is a medical emergency that can be caused by a variety of digestive problems. Choke is a medical emergency that occurs when food becomes stuck in the horse’s throat. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the cause of any feeding problem and to develop a plan to address it.
How can I make sure my horse is getting enough water?
Horses should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. The amount of water they need depends on their size, age, activity level, and health status. A general rule of thumb is that horses should drink 10-12 gallons of water per day. It’s important to check your horse’s water bucket regularly to make sure it is full and clean. You should also have your veterinarian or equine nutritionist check your horse’s hydration status regularly.
What are some common problems with horse water?
Some common problems with horse water include poor quality, lack of access, and excessive mineral content. Poor quality water can be contaminated with bacteria or chemicals. Lack of access to water can cause dehydration. Excessive mineral content in water can cause health problems such as kidney disease. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to ensure that your horse has access to clean, fresh water.
How can I tell if my horse is dehydrated?
Some signs of dehydration in horses include dry mouth, sunken eyes, and lethargy. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the best way to check your horse’s hydration status.
What are some common feeding problems in horses?
Some common feeding problems in horses include poor appetite, colic, and choke. Poor appetite can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, illness, or poor dental health. Colic is a medical emergency that can be caused by a variety of digestive problems. Choke is a medical emergency that occurs when food becomes stuck in the horse’s throat. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the cause of any feeding problem and to develop a plan to address it.
How can I make sure my horse is getting enough water?
Horses should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. The amount of water they need depends on their size, age, activity level, and health status. A general rule of thumb is that horses should drink 10-12 gallons of water per day. It’s important to check your horse’s water bucket regularly to make sure it is full and clean. You should also have your veterinarian or equine nutritionist check your horse’s hydration status regularly.
What are some common problems with horse water?
Some common problems with horse water include poor quality, lack of access, and excessive mineral content. Poor quality water can be contaminated with bacteria or chemicals. Lack of access to water can cause dehydration. Excessive mineral content in water can cause health problems such as kidney disease. It’s important to work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to ensure that your horse has access to clean, fresh water.
