Recommended Diet Types
For a low-salt, low-fat equine diet, focus on:
- Forage-based diet: High-quality grass hay (timothy, orchard grass) or pasture as the foundation. Avoid alfalfa as it is higher in protein and calories.
- Low-salt feed: Choose grains and concentrates with no added salt. Oats, barley, and beet pulp (unsweetened) are good options.
- Wet feeds: Soak hay or beet pulp to reduce dust and make it easier to chew, but ensure no salt or fat is added.
- Homemade meals: Prepare balanced rations using approved ingredients to control sodium and fat levels.
Minimize processed commercial feeds that often contain added salt and fats.
Portion Sizes & Daily Caloric Needs by Age, Size, and Activity
| Category | Body Weight (kg) | Daily Hay (kg) | Grain/Beet Pulp (kg) | Calories (Mcal) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (light work) | 500-600 | 7-9 | 0-2 | 16-20 |
| Adult (moderate work) | 500-600 | 7-9 | 2-4 | 20-28 |
| Senior (>15 yrs) | 450-550 | 6-8 | 1-3 | 14-20 |
| Weanling | 200-300 | 3-5 | 1-2 | 10-14 |
Note: Adjust portions based on body condition score (aim for 5-6 on 1-9 scale). Reduce grain if weight gain occurs.
Feeding Frequency & Schedule
Horses are natural grazers; feed at least 3-4 times daily to mimic natural behavior. Divide hay and grain into multiple meals. Avoid feeding more than 2-3 kg of grain per meal to reduce risk of colic. Establish consistent times for feeding (e.g., 6 am, 12 pm, 6 pm, 10 pm).
Essential Nutrients
- Protein: 10-12% of diet; high-quality hay provides adequate protein; need for growth/lactation may increase.
- Fat: Should be < 3% of total diet; avoid added oils or high-fat seeds.
- Carbohydrates: Primarily from fiber; limit starch/sugar to < 15% total diet.
- Vitamins: A, D, E (antioxidant) from fresh forage; supplement if hay-stored.
- Minerals: Calcium and phosphorus in 2:1 ratio; ensure adequate magnesium, potassium, and selenium.
Low-salt means < 0.5% sodium in total diet; provide a salt block (white, not mineral) for free-choice access only if needed (some horses require minimal added salt).
Toxic or Harmful Foods
- High-salt items: Commercial feeds with added salt, table salt, salt licks with minerals (careful).
- High-fat items: Oils, fatty grains (corn, rice bran), seeds, nuts.
- Plants: Brassicas (cabbage, kale) can cause goiter; avoid toxic plants like ragwort, yew, oleander.
- Molds: Moldy hay or grain can cause colic and respiratory issues.
- Human foods: Chocolate, avocado, caffeine, onions, garlic (excess) are toxic.
Water Intake
A horse should drink 5-10 gallons (19-38 liters) per day, more in hot weather or when working. Ensure clean, fresh water is always available. Soaking hay increases water intake. Monitor consumption; reduced drinking can indicate illness.
Beneficial Supplements
- Vitamin E: Antioxidant for muscle health; especially if hay-stored.
- Magnesium: Calming effect; helps with muscle function.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: From flaxseed (ground, limited) or algae; anti-inflammatory; keep low in overall fat.
- Probiotics: Support gut health during stress or antibiotic use.
- Salt block: Provide plain white block; do not force if diet already low-salt.
Consult a vet before adding supplements.
Feeding Differences by Life Stage
Young Horses
Higher protein (14-16%) for growth; calcium-phosphorus balanced; feed 3-4 times daily; avoid overfeeding to prevent developmental issues.
Adults
Maintain condition with low-fat, low-salt; adjust grain for work level; monitor BCS.
Seniors
Easily chewed hay (soaked or chopped); possibly senior feed with lower starch; more frequent meals; monitor dental health; supplement vitamin C and joint support.
Signs of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Diet
Healthy: Glossy coat, bright eyes, good muscle tone, appropriate weight, firm manure, calm demeanor, energy for work.
Unhealthy: Dull coat, weight loss/gain, lethargy, diarrhea or constipation, excessive sweating, laminitis symptoms, poor performance, picky eating.