Recommended Feed Types
For adult horses, the foundation of the diet should be high-quality forage, such as grass hay or legume hay. Additionally, concentrate feeds (e.g., grains, pelleted feeds) and supplements can be used to meet energy and nutrient demands.
- Forage: Provides fiber, essential for gut health. Offer free-choice hay or pasture.
- Concentrates: Oats, corn, barley, or commercial pelleted feeds. Adjust based on workload.
- Supplements: Protein supplements, fat sources (soybean oil), and vitamin/mineral premixes.
Feed Amounts and Daily Energy Needs
Daily dry matter intake should be 1.5-2.5% of body weight. For a 500 kg adult horse at moderate work, 7.5-12.5 kg of feed per day. Energy requirements vary by activity level:
| Activity | DE (Mcal/day) |
|---|---|
| Maintenance (no work) | 15-20 |
| Light work | 20-25 |
| Moderate work | 25-30 |
| Heavy work | 30-40 |
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Feed horses at least 2-3 times daily. Ideal schedule: morning, midday, and evening. Avoid large single meals to prevent colic. Always provide constant access to fresh water.
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Minimum 8-10% crude protein for adult horses; higher for muscle building. Lysine and threonine are key amino acids.
Fats
Up to 5-10% of diet for energy and coat health. Use vegetable oils or stabilized rice bran.
Carbohydrates
Primarily from forage (fiber). Avoid excessive starch (grains) to reduce laminitis risk.
Vitamins and Minerals
Provide vitamin A, D, E, and B-complex. Key minerals: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, copper, selenium. Ensure proper Ca:P ratio (1:1 to 2:1).
Harmful Foods and Ingredients
- Moldy feed: Can cause colic or respiratory issues.
- High-starch grains: Laminitis risk.
- Unbalanced mineral supplements: Toxicity.
- Plants: Bracken fern, red maple leaves, yew.
Water Intake Recommendations
Adult horses need 20-40 liters daily depending on temperature and activity. Ensure clean, unfrozen water at all times.
Beneficial Supplements
- Probiotics: For digestive health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (flaxseed): Anti-inflammatory.
- Joint supports (glucosamine, chondroitin): For older or working horses.
- Electrolytes: After heavy sweating.
Feeding Differences by Life Stage
Young horses need higher protein (14-16%) for growth. Adults focus on maintenance and work energy. Seniors require easily digestible fiber and possibly pelleted feeds to manage dental issues.
Signs of Healthy vs. Poor Diet
Healthy: Shiny coat, alert demeanor, firm manure, good muscle tone, steady weight.
Poor: Dull coat, lethargy, loose/sticky manure, weight loss or obesity, weak hooves.