🌾 1. Understanding Horse Nutrition
Horses are herbivores (plant eaters) and grazing animals — meaning they are designed to eat small amounts of food frequently throughout the day. Their diet should mainly consist of forage (grass or hay) with the right balance of grains, vitamins, and minerals.
🥬 2. Main Components of a Horse’s Diet
a) Forage (Grass & Hay) – The Foundation
- Forage should make up at least 70–80% of a horse’s total diet.
- Good-quality pasture grass or hay provides fiber that keeps the digestive system healthy.
- Always check hay for mold, dust, or weeds before feeding.
🕐 Feeding Tip:
Horses should have constant access to hay or grass to mimic natural grazing behavior and prevent stomach ulcers.
b) Concentrates (Grains & Pellets)
- Includes oats, corn, barley, or commercial horse feed.
- Used to boost energy and nutrients for active, working, or growing horses.
- Overfeeding grains can cause colic or laminitis — so give only as needed.
⚖️ Tip:
Feed grains after hay or grass to slow down digestion and reduce health risks.
c) Fresh Water
- Horses need 5–10 gallons (20–40 liters) of fresh water daily.
- Water intake increases in hot weather, during exercise, or when eating dry hay.
- Always keep clean, cool water available.
d) Salt & Minerals
- Provide salt licks or mineral blocks to ensure the horse gets enough sodium and essential minerals.
- These help maintain hydration, nerve, and muscle health.
🥕 3. Treats and Supplements
- Safe treats: Carrots, apples, sugar-free horse biscuits.
- Avoid: Chocolate, onions, garlic, caffeine, or bread dough.
- Supplements (vitamins, probiotics, joint support) should only be given after vet consultation.
🧠 4. Feeding Schedule & Habits
- Feed small meals 2–3 times daily instead of one large meal.
- Keep feeding times consistent each day to reduce stress.
- Avoid feeding right before or after intense exercise.
- Store feed in clean, dry containers to prevent spoilage.
⚠️ 5. Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Overfeeding grains
🚫 Sudden diet changes
🚫 Dirty or moldy feed
🚫 Lack of clean water
🚫 Skipping salt/minerals
Always introduce new feed gradually over 7–10 days to prevent digestive upset.
❤️ 6. Special Notes for Horse Owners
- Regularly weigh and monitor your horse’s body condition.
- Consult a veterinarian or equine nutritionist for a balanced feeding plan.
- Older, pregnant, or working horses may need special diets for energy and health.
✅ Summary
| Component | Importance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Forage (Grass/Hay) | Main energy & fiber source | Feed freely |
| Grains/Concentrates | Energy boost | Feed in moderation |
| Water | Vital for digestion | Keep clean and fresh |
| Salt/Minerals | Maintain balance | Use salt blocks |
| Treats | Bonding & reward | Give in small amounts |
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