It’s generally better to feed horses hay before exercise rather than grain. Hay provides a slow-releasing energy source that helps maintain consistent blood sugar levels, while grain can cause a rapid spike and subsequent drop, potentially leading to fatigue or digestive upset. Providing forage keeps the digestive system stable and reduces the risk of colic.
Why is Hay Preferred Before Exercise?
Hay, especially grass hay, is a good option for horses before work because it is less likely to contain mold and dust and tends to slow down the rate of passage through the intestinal tract. This slow digestion provides a steady energy release, which is more beneficial for sustained activity. Good quality grass-legume pastures, in addition to iodized or trace-mineralized salt, will supply adequate nutrients to maintain an adult horse at light work.
What are the Benefits of Feeding Hay?
- Sustained Energy: Hay offers a slow and steady release of energy, which is ideal for endurance and prolonged activity.
- Digestive Health: The high fiber content in hay supports a healthy digestive system, reducing the risk of colic and other digestive issues.
- Mental Well-being: Chewing on hay can help keep horses calm and reduce anxiety, which is particularly useful before exercise.
What are the Risks of Feeding Grain Before Exercise?
While grain can provide a quick energy boost, it also comes with potential drawbacks:
- Rapid Energy Spike and Crash: Grains are high in carbohydrates, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar followed by a crash, leading to fatigue.
- Digestive Upset: Concentrated feeds like grain can disrupt the balance of the hindgut, potentially causing colic or laminitis.
- Increased Risk of Ulcers: Grain can increase stomach acidity, potentially leading to ulcers, especially in horses prone to stress.
How Long Before Exercise Should a Horse be Fed?
Ideally, allow at least 1-2 hours between feeding and exercise. This allows the horse to digest the feed partially and reduces the risk of digestive upset during work.
What Type of Hay is Best?
High-quality legume hays, such as early bloom alfalfa, are preferred for horses, especially those that are growing or lactating. Grass hays, such as timothy, prairie grass, orchard grass, and bluegrass, were preferred by early horsemen, especially for race horses, because they were usually free from mold and dust and tended to slow down the rate of passage through the intestinal tract.
What About Horses with Specific Dietary Needs?
Horses will vary from the normal requirement in terms of weight, temperament, and previous nutrition. For horses with specific dietary needs, such as those with metabolic issues or high-performance athletes, consult with an equine nutritionist to develop a tailored feeding plan.
Feeding hay before exercise is generally better for horses due to its sustained energy release and digestive benefits. While grain can provide a quick energy boost, it also carries risks of energy crashes and digestive upset.
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