Best Food for Horses: Complete Nutrition Guide to Keep Your Horse Healthy

Here’s something that might surprise you: horses can eat up to 3% of their body weight daily, yet many horse owners struggle to provide optimal nutrition.

Whether you’re a first-time horse owner or looking to refine your feeding strategy, understanding what to feed a horse properly can mean the difference between a thriving animal and costly health issues down the road.

You’ll discover the essential foods that form the foundation of a balanced horse diet, from basic forages to specialized supplements.

We’ll explore both traditional and modern feeding approaches, helping you make informed decisions about everything from hay selection to treat choices.

Fresh Grass

Fresh grass serves as nature’s perfect horse food, providing the foundation for equine nutrition that’s sustained wild horses for millennia. When you turn your horse out to quality pasture, you’re offering them their most natural and often preferred food source.

Why Fresh Grass Matters:

• Contains 60-80% water, keeping horses naturally hydrated
• Provides essential amino acids in easily digestible forms
• Offers natural vitamins A, D, and E directly from photosynthesis
• Delivers minerals absorbed from soil through root systems

Pro Tip: Spring grass can contain 25-30% more sugar than mature grass, so introduce horses gradually to prevent founder or colic.

The quality of your pasture directly impacts your horse’s health. Look for diverse grass species including fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass. Avoid pastures with more than 30% weeds, as this indicates poor soil nutrition.

Seasonal Considerations:

• Spring: Limit grazing time to 2-4 hours initially
• Summer: Provide shade and fresh water access
• Fall: Monitor for frost-damaged grass toxicity
• Winter: Supplement with hay when grass is dormant

Legume Hay

Legume hay, particularly alfalfa and clover, represents the premium fuel of the horse world. You’ll find this high-protein option essential for growing horses, lactating mares, and hard-working athletes.

Alfalfa contains 16-20% protein compared to grass hay’s 8-12%, making it ideal for horses with increased nutritional demands. The calcium content is typically three times higher than grass hay, supporting bone development and muscle function.

Best Uses for Legume Hay:

• Growing foals and yearlings
• Pregnant and nursing mares
• Performance horses in heavy training
• Horses recovering from illness or injury

Quality Indicators:

• Bright green color (not brown or yellow)
• Sweet, fresh smell
• Soft, leafy texture with minimal stems
• No dust, mold, or foreign materials

Grass Hay

Grass hay forms the backbone of most horses’ diets, providing essential fiber for proper digestive function. Timothy, bermuda, and orchardgrass are your go-to options for consistent, reliable nutrition.

Unlike legume hay, grass hay offers moderate protein levels that won’t overwhelm most horses’ systems. This makes it perfect for easy keepers and horses prone to metabolic issues.

Timothy Hay Benefits:

• Low sugar content (ideal for insulin-resistant horses)
• High fiber promotes healthy gut bacteria
• Palatable to most horses
• Widely available across North America

Bermuda Grass Advantages:

• Drought-resistant, consistent quality
• Lower protein prevents “hot” behavior
• Excellent for overweight horses
• Cost-effective option

Did You Know? Horses should consume 1.5-2% of their body weight in hay daily. For a 1,000-pound horse, that’s 15-20 pounds of hay per day.

Storage Tips:

• Store in dry, ventilated areas
• Stack with airflow between bales
• Use hay within 12-18 months for best nutrition
• Check for mold before feeding

Oats

Oats have earned their reputation as the traditional grain for horses, and for good reason. You’ll find them easier to digest than other grains while providing steady energy release throughout the day.

The fiber content in oats (10-15%) helps slow digestion, reducing the risk of grain-related colic. This natural “governor” makes oats safer than corn or barley for most horses.

Nutritional Profile:

• 11-14% protein
• 4-6% fat
• High in phosphorus and B vitamins
• Naturally gluten-free

Best Practices:

• Feed 1-2 pounds per 100 pounds of body weight maximum
• Divide into multiple small meals
• Choose clean, heavy oats (38-42 pounds per bushel)
• Store in rodent-proof containers

Crimped or rolled oats improve digestibility for senior horses or those with dental issues. However, whole oats work fine for most horses and stay fresh longer.

Barley

Barley offers excellent value as a horse feed, providing more energy per pound than oats while typically costing less. You’ll want to process barley before feeding, as the hard hull makes whole barley difficult to digest.

Processing Options:

• Rolled: Flattened for easier chewing
• Crimped: Cracked open while maintaining hull
• Pearled: Hull removed entirely

The starch content in barley (60-65%) is higher than oats, making it ideal for horses needing weight gain or sustained energy for work. However, this also means you’ll need to feed smaller quantities.

Feeding Guidelines:

• Start with 1⁄4 pound per day and increase gradually
• Maximum 4-6 pounds daily for average horses
• Always feed processed barley, never whole
• Monitor for digestive upset during transition

Corn

Corn delivers the highest energy content of common horse grains, making it valuable for hardworking horses or those struggling to maintain weight. However, you’ll need to feed corn carefully due to its high starch content.

Safety First:

• Never feed more than 2 pounds at one feeding
• Divide daily ration into 3-4 small meals
• Choose whole kernel corn over cracked (stays fresh longer)
• Avoid feeding corn to horses prone to founder

Nutritional Benefits:

• 8-10% protein
• 3-4% fat
• High in vitamin A precursors
• Excellent energy density

Pro Tip: Corn gets an unfair reputation for causing “hot” behavior. The real culprit is usually overfeeding or feeding too much at once, which can cause digestive upset.

Quality Considerations:

• Look for bright, uniform kernels
• Avoid corn with black, moldy, or broken kernels
• Store in cool, dry conditions
• Use within 6 months for best nutrition

Sweet Feed

Sweet feed combines grains with molasses, creating a palatable option that many horses find irresistible. You’ll typically find mixtures of oats, corn, and barley with added vitamins and minerals.

The molasses content (usually 8-12%) provides quick energy and helps reduce dust, but it also adds sugar that some horses can’t handle well.

Ideal Candidates:

• Horses needing weight gain
• Picky eaters who need encouragement
• Performance horses requiring quick energy
• Horses in cold climates needing extra calories

Considerations:

• Higher sugar content than plain grains
• Can attract insects if not stored properly
• More expensive than individual grains
• May cause excitement in some horses

Storage Requirements:

• Use within 90 days of purchase
• Store in sealed containers
• Keep in cool, dry locations
• Monitor for mold or rancidity

Commercial Horse Pellets

Commercial horse pellets offer convenience and consistency that busy horse owners appreciate. You’ll find complete feeds designed for specific life stages and activity levels, taking the guesswork out of balanced nutrition.

Pellet Advantages:

• Consistent nutrient content batch to batch
• Reduced waste compared to loose feeds
• Easy to measure and store
• Fortified with vitamins and minerals

Types Available:

• Complete feeds: Include roughage, no hay needed
• Concentrates: Designed to supplement hay/pasture
• Senior feeds: Easier to chew, higher fat content
• Performance feeds: Higher protein and energy

Beet Pulp

Beet pulp, a byproduct of sugar beet processing, provides exceptional digestible fiber that supports gut health. You’ll need to soak it before feeding, but the effort pays off in improved digestion and conditioning.

Soaking Process:

1. Use 3-4 parts water to 1 part beet pulp
2. Soak for 2-4 hours (minimum 30 minutes)
3. Drain excess water before feeding
4. Use within 24 hours to prevent fermentation

Benefits:

• 18-22% fiber, highly digestible
• Provides slow-release energy
• Helps maintain healthy gut bacteria
• Excellent for weight gain without “hot” behavior

Cautions:

• Never feed dry beet pulp (can cause choking)
• Molassed versions add unnecessary sugar
• Can freeze in winter – plan accordingly
• May cause loose stools if fed in large quantities

Bran Mash

Bran mash represents old-school horse care, traditionally fed as a warm, comforting meal. While you won’t rely on it for primary nutrition, it serves specific purposes in horse management.

Traditional Preparation:

• Mix 1-2 quarts wheat bran with hot water
• Add handful of salt and let cool to lukewarm
• Feed immediately while still warm
• Often includes chopped apples or carrots

Modern Perspective: Nutritionists now question regular bran feeding due to its inverted calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. However, occasional bran mashes can still benefit horses as:

• Mild laxative for constipated horses
• Comfort food for stressed animals
• Vehicle for medications or supplements
• Warming meal in cold weather

Did You Know? The old practice of weekly bran mashes may actually disrupt digestive balance. Modern feeding emphasizes consistency over variety.

Soybean Meal

Soybean meal delivers the highest quality protein available in horse feeds, making it invaluable for growing horses, lactating mares, and performance athletes. You’ll find it particularly useful when horses need muscle development or repair.

Protein Quality:

• 44-48% protein content
• Complete amino acid profile
• High lysine content (essential for muscle development)
• Highly digestible

Feeding Applications:

• Young, growing horses needing muscle development
• Broodmares during late pregnancy and lactation
• Performance horses in heavy training
• Horses recovering from illness or injury

Feeding Rates:

• 0.5-1.5 pounds daily for most horses
• Always feed with energy sources (grains/fats)
• Mix with other feeds to improve palatability
• Store in cool, dry conditions

Rice Bran

Rice bran offers a unique combination of fat and fiber that makes it excellent for adding calories without increasing grain intake. You’ll find it particularly valuable for horses needing weight gain or sustained energy.

Nutritional Profile:

• 12-15% fat content
• 12-15% protein
• Rich in gamma oryzanol (natural antioxidant)
• High in B vitamins

Stabilization Matters: Raw rice bran goes rancid quickly due to its high fat content. Choose stabilized rice bran that’s been heat-treated to prevent spoilage.

Benefits:

• Excellent for weight gain
• Provides “cool” energy (won’t make horses “hot”)
• Supports coat shine and condition
• Easy to digest

Feeding Guidelines:

• Start with 1⁄4 cup daily and increase gradually
• Maximum 2-3 pounds daily for average horses
• Store in cool, dry conditions
• Use within 6 months of purchase

Salt Blocks

Salt blocks provide essential sodium chloride that horses can’t obtain from pasture or hay alone. You’ll need to provide salt year-round, as horses lose significant sodium through sweat even in cold weather.

Types Available:

• Plain white salt: Pure sodium chloride
• Trace mineral blocks: Include copper, zinc, selenium
• Loose salt: Easier consumption for some horses

Placement Strategy:

• Position blocks away from water sources
• Provide shade to prevent rapid dissolving
• Mount at horse’s shoulder height
• Check regularly for adequate consumption

Consumption Guidelines:

• Average horses need 1-2 ounces daily
• Hard-working horses may need 3-4 ounces
• Increase availability during hot weather
• Monitor for over-consumption (rare but possible)

Pro Tip: Some horses prefer loose salt mixed with grain. If your horse ignores blocks, try offering salt in their feed at 1 tablespoon per day.

Mineral Blocks

Mineral blocks supplement trace minerals that may be deficient in local hay and pasture. You’ll find them particularly important in areas with known mineral deficiencies or for horses with specific nutritional needs.

Essential Minerals:

• Copper: Coat color and hoof health
• Zinc: Immune function and wound healing
• Selenium: Muscle function and antioxidant activity
• Iron: Oxygen transport and energy metabolism

Regional Considerations: Different geographic areas have varying mineral profiles in soil and water. Consult with local veterinarians or extension agents to understand your area’s specific needs.

Quality Indicators:

• Weather-resistant formulation
• Appropriate hardness (not too soft or hard)
• Consistent mineral content
• Palatability for regular consumption

Monitoring Consumption:

• Most horses consume 1-2 ounces daily
• Under-consumption may indicate palatability issues
• Over-consumption might suggest mineral deficiency
• Replace blocks when weathered or contaminated

Electrolyte Supplements

Electrolyte supplements become crucial during hot weather, intense training, or any time horses sweat heavily. You’ll need to replace sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium lost through perspiration.

When to Supplement:

• Hot, humid weather conditions
• Intense training or competition
• Long-distance trail rides
• Recovery from illness with fever
• Anytime horses refuse to drink adequate water

Types Available:

• Powder: Mix with feed or water
• Paste: Direct oral administration
• Liquid: Add to water or feed
• Blocks: Free-choice consumption

Key Electrolytes:

• Sodium: Maintains fluid balance
• Potassium: Muscle and nerve function
• Chloride: Acid-base balance
• Magnesium: Enzyme function

Administration Tips:

• Follow manufacturer’s dosing guidelines
• Provide fresh water alongside electrolytes
• Start supplementation before heavy work
• Monitor for adequate water consumption

Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin supplements fill nutritional gaps that may exist in basic diets, particularly for horses with limited pasture access or special needs. You’ll find them most beneficial during specific life stages or health challenges.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins:

• Vitamin A: Vision, immune function, reproduction
• Vitamin D: Calcium absorption, bone health
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant, muscle function
• Vitamin K: Blood clotting, bone metabolism

Water-Soluble Vitamins:

• B Vitamins: Energy metabolism, nervous system
• Vitamin C: Immune function, stress response
• Biotin: Hoof health, coat quality

Supplementation Guidelines: Most horses on good pasture or quality hay don’t need routine vitamin supplementation. However, consider supplements for:

• Horses with limited pasture access
• Performance horses under stress
• Horses with specific health issues
• Senior horses with reduced absorption

Did You Know? Horses can synthesize many vitamins in their hindgut, making supplementation less critical than for other animals. Focus on quality base nutrition first.

Carrots

Carrots rank among the most popular healthy horse treats, providing natural sweetness along with valuable nutrients. You’ll find them excellent for training rewards and building relationships with horses.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor)
• Good source of fiber and potassium
• Natural sugars provide quick energy
• Low in calories compared to commercial treats

Feeding Safety:

• Cut carrots lengthwise to prevent choking
• Limit to 2-3 carrots daily for average horses
• Choose fresh, firm carrots without soft spots
• Avoid carrots with green tops (can be toxic)

Preparation Methods:

• Slice lengthwise into strips
• Chop into small pieces for senior horses
• Feed whole only to horses with good teeth
• Remove any dirt or damaged areas

Apples

Apples provide natural sweetness and satisfying crunch that most horses love. You’ll find them perfect for special occasions and building positive associations with handling.

Nutritional Value:

• Natural sugars for quick energy
• Fiber for digestive health
• Vitamin C and antioxidants
• Pectin supports gut health

Safe Feeding Practices:

• Remove seeds and core (contain cyanide compounds)
• Cut into quarters or slices
• Limit to 1-2 apples daily
• Choose firm, fresh apples

Variety Considerations:

• Tart apples (Granny Smith) have less sugar
• Sweet apples (Red Delicious) are higher in sugar
• Avoid apples with bruises or mold
• Organic apples reduce pesticide exposure

Peppermints

Peppermints serve as the ultimate pocket treat for horse owners, providing instant gratification and positive reinforcement. You’ll find them particularly useful for trailer loading, veterinary procedures, and training sessions.

Why Horses Love Them:

• Strong mint flavor stimulates taste buds
• Crunchy texture provides satisfaction
• Small size makes them convenient
• Long shelf life for storage

Feeding Guidelines:

• Limit to 5-10 mints daily
• Choose sugar-free varieties when possible
• Avoid chocolate or artificial sweeteners
• Store in sealed containers to maintain freshness

Training Applications:

• Reward for good behavior
• Distraction during procedures
• Motivation for reluctant horses
• Building trust and relationships

Pro Tip: Keep peppermints in your pocket during handling sessions. The crinkling wrapper sound alone can get your horse’s attention and create positive anticipation.

Watermelon

Watermelon makes an excellent summer treat that provides hydration along with natural sweetness. You’ll find it particularly refreshing for horses during hot weather.

Benefits:

• 92% water content for hydration
• Natural electrolytes (potassium)
• Vitamins A and C
• Low in calories

Preparation Requirements:

• Remove all seeds (can cause intestinal blockage)
• Cut rind into manageable pieces
• Offer flesh and rind separately
• Limit to 2-3 cups daily

Seasonal Considerations:

• Best during hot summer months
• Provides natural cooling effect
• Supplements water intake
• Reduces risk of dehydration

Safety Notes:

• Never feed watermelon with seeds
• Introduce gradually to prevent digestive upset
• Monitor for loose stools
• Choose ripe, fresh watermelon

Conclusion

Feeding horses properly requires understanding their unique digestive system and nutritional needs. The foundation of good nutrition starts with quality forage – whether fresh grass or hay – providing the fiber essential for digestive health.

From there, you can add grains, supplements, and treats based on your horse’s individual needs, activity level, and life stage. Remember that consistency in feeding times and gradual changes prevent digestive upset.

The best horse nutrition plan balances traditional feeding wisdom with modern nutritional science. Work with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a feeding program that keeps your horse healthy, happy, and performing at their best.

Quality nutrition isn’t just about the feed you provide – it’s about understanding your horse’s individual needs and adjusting accordingly. Start with the basics, monitor your horse’s condition, and make changes gradually for the best results.