Introduction
Calculating the exact daily feed amount for your horse is crucial for maintaining optimal health, preventing obesity or malnutrition, and supporting performance. Horses are herbivores with a sensitive digestive system that requires a consistent supply of forage. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to determine the precise grams of feed your horse needs each day based on body weight, activity level, and feed type.
Step 1: Determine Your Horse's Body Weight
Accurate weight is the foundation of feed calculation. Use a weight tape, scale, or formula: Weight (kg) = (Heart Girth² × Length) / 11,880 (in cm). For most calculations, weight in kilograms is used.
Step 2: Calculate Forage (Hay) Requirements
Horses should consume at least 1.5% to 2% of their body weight in forage (hay) daily. For a 500 kg horse, that's 7.5 kg to 10 kg of hay per day. Measure hay by weight, not volume. Use a hay net or scale to ensure accuracy.
Step 3: Determine Concentrate (Grain) Needs
Concentrates (grains, pellets, or balancers) are fed to supplement energy, protein, and minerals. The amount depends on activity level and body condition. Use the following table as a guideline:
| Activity Level | Grain per day as % of body weight | Example for 500 kg horse |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance (light work) | 0% - 0.5% | 0 - 2.5 kg |
| Light to moderate work | 0.5% - 1.0% | 2.5 - 5 kg |
| Intense work or growing/training | 1.0% - 1.5% | 5 - 7.5 kg |
Always split grain into meals, never feed more than 2.5 kg per meal to avoid digestive upset.
Step 4: Adjust for Body Condition
Use the Henneke Body Condition Score (BCS) from 1 to 9. Ideal is 5-6. Increase feed for underweight horses (BCS < 5) and decrease for overweight (BCS > 6). Adjust grain and hay accordingly.
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Horses should have constant access to forage (hay) 24/7 if possible. If not, feed hay in at least 3-4 portions per day. Grain meals should be given at the same times each day, typically 2-3 times per day.
Essential Nutrients
Horses require protein (10-14% of diet for maintenance), fat (3-6%), fiber (from forage), vitamins (A, D, E), and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, salt). Provide a balanced mineral supplement or salt block for free access.
Foods to Avoid
- Moldy or dusty hay
- Too much grain (can cause colic or laminitis)
- High-sugar treats (apples, carrots in moderation only)
- Swampy water (lead to algae toxins)
Water Intake
Horses need 5-10 gallons (20-40 liters) per day, more in hot weather or when working. Clean, fresh water must always be available.
Supplements
May include probiotics, hoof supplements (biotin), joint support (glucosamine), or electrolytes for performance horses. Consult a vet before adding supplements.
Age Differences
Foals and Weanlings
Feed high-quality forage and specialized creep feed. Weanlings need 2-3% of body weight in feed daily, with protein levels around 14-18%.
Adult Horses
Maintain at 1.5-2% body weight in total feed. Adjust grain based on work.
Senior Horses
Often require softer hay or hay cubes, more digestible fiber, and higher protein (14-16%). Feed multiple small meals to aid digestion.
Signs of Proper Nutrition
- Shiny coat, bright eyes
- Healthy weight (ribs barely felt)
- Regular manure (firm but moist)
- Good energy and performance
Signs of Poor Nutrition
- Dull coat, weight loss or gain
- Lethargy, poor hoof quality
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Colic or founder