What types of feed are best for an active horse?

The best types of feed for an active horse include good quality grass-legume pastures, harvested roughages, and concentrates. Lush, early spring pasture may need a high-energy source like grain, while late fall and winter pasture may need protein and vitamin A supplements. Moldy or dusty feeds should be avoided.

What are the primary types of feed for active horses?

The main types of feed for active horses are:

• Pasture forage Good quality grass-legume pastures can provide adequate nutrients for adult horses doing light work or for pregnant mares.
• Harvested roughages High-quality legume hays, such as early bloom alfalfa, are excellent for horses, especially those that are growing or lactating.
• Concentrates Oats are a preferred grain due to their bulk, but corn, barley, wheat, and milo can also be used when they are more cost-effective.

How do nutritional needs change with a horse’s activity level?

Horses performing medium to heavy work, such as plowing, need a high-energy source like grain to supplement lush, early spring pasture. Late fall and winter pasture requires protein and vitamin A supplementation because it is low in water and protein. Weanling foals need about 3 pounds of feed per 100 pounds of body weight daily, which decreases to 1 pound as they mature.

What grains are best for horses?

Oats are generally the preferred grain for horses because of their bulk. However, other grains like corn (maize), barley, wheat, and milo can be used, especially if they are more economical. For older horses or those with digestive issues, crushed oats are easier to digest.

What should be avoided when feeding horses?

Moldy or dusty feeds should be avoided because horses are prone to forage poisoning and respiratory issues. Silages of all sorts should also be avoided, as horses and mules are highly susceptible to botulism and digestive upsets.

How do commercial feed mixes help?

Commercial feed mixes are available and tailored to the needs of horses, depending on their function (growth, pregnancy, lactation, or maintenance). These mixes contain minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients to provide a balanced diet when supplemented with hay.

Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and performance of active horses. By understanding the different types of feed and how they meet a horse’s changing needs, owners can ensure their horses receive a balanced diet.

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