Introduction
Feeding horses that spend most of their time in a pasture or stable with minimal exercise requires a balanced approach to prevent obesity and health issues. This guide provides a simple feeding plan for "lazy" horses on the farm.
Recommended Diet Types
The foundation of a horse's diet should be high-quality forage (hay or pasture). For lazy horses, limit rich pasture and choose grass hay over legume hay to reduce calorie intake. Concentrates (grains) are often unnecessary; if needed, use a low-starch, low-sugar balancer pellet.
- Forage: 1.5-2% of body weight daily in hay (e.g., 15-20 lbs for a 1000 lb horse).
- Balancer pellet: 1-2 lbs per day to provide vitamins and minerals without excess calories.
- Treats: Carrots, apples (in moderation), hay cubes.
Avoid large grain meals; they can cause metabolic issues in sedentary horses.
Portion Sizes and Daily Caloric Needs
Caloric needs vary by weight, age, and activity. Use the table below as a guide for a 1000 lb (450 kg) lazy horse at maintenance.
| Body Weight (lbs) | Daily Calories | Hay (lbs/day) | Balancer (lbs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 900 | 12,000-14,000 | 13-18 | 1-1.5 |
| 1000 | 13,500-15,500 | 15-20 | 1-2 |
| 1100 | 15,000-17,000 | 16-22 | 1-2 |
Adjust based on body condition. If the horse is overweight, reduce hay slightly and increase exercise.
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Horses are grazers; feed at least 2-3 times daily to maintain gut health. A sample schedule:
- Morning: Half of daily hay (7-10 lbs) and balancer pellet.
- Midday: Small amount of hay or a hay net to prolong eating.
- Evening: Remaining hay (7-10 lbs).
Ensure fresh water is available at all times.
Essential Nutrients
Protein
10-12% crude protein is adequate for adult horses. Good sources: grass hay, alfalfa (if needed), soybean meal.
Fat
2-3% fat in total diet; can be increased to 5% for weight gain or coat condition, but avoid excess for lazy horses.
Carbohydrates
Fiber (from hay) is key. Limit starch and sugar to prevent laminitis and metabolic issues.
Vitamins and Minerals
Use a balancer pellet or mineral supplement to ensure adequate levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, E.
Foods and Ingredients to Avoid
- Moldy or dusty hay – can cause respiratory issues.
- High-sugar treats (e.g., molasses, sweet feed).
- Grass clippings – risk of colic and laminitis.
- Plants toxic to horses: ragwort, yew, bracken fern, red maple leaves, acorns.
Water Intake
Provide clean, fresh water daily. A horse drinks 5-10 gallons per day, more in hot weather. In winter, ensure water is not frozen.
Beneficial Supplements
- Salt: Provide free-choice loose salt or a salt block.
- Vitamin E: For horses on hay without access to fresh pasture; 500-1000 IU/day.
- Probiotics: May aid digestion, especially after antibiotics or stress.
Consult a veterinarian before adding supplements.
Feeding Differences by Age
Foals and Weanlings
Require higher protein (14-16%) and calories for growth. Creep feed or junior feed with balanced minerals.
Adult Lazy Horses
As described, focus on forage and limited concentrates.
Senior Horses
May need easier-to-chew hay (soaked hay cubes) and a complete senior feed with higher protein and fat. Dental care is crucial.
Signs of Healthy vs. Poor Diet
Healthy Diet
- Shiny coat, bright eyes, good body condition (ribs felt but not seen).
- Consistent manure (moist, formed piles).
- Good energy level for activity.
Poor Diet
- Dull coat, over- or underweight, lethargy.
- Loose or dry manure, colic signs.
- Hoof problems (cracks, slow growth).
Adjust feeding based on these signs.