Starting with forage as the basis of a horse’s diet mimics the types of food he would feast on in the wild. However, the main meal of wild horses consists of lower-quality grasses and even brush and nearby shrubs. So, even domesticated horses on a forage-only diet typically receive a more nutritious meal through quality hay and pastures.
While grazing and free access to hay are often considered a best practice for gut health, not all horses can benefit from this approach. Unlimited grass or hay is problematic for horses with insulin resistance and metabolic issues that need careful management of rations.
Other horses simply can’t walk away from the buffet and never stop eating. Allowing a horse to become overweight can predispose them to multiple health risks. Try these strategies to slow down your enthusiastic eaters.
- Provide smaller, more frequent portions of hay in slow-feed nets
- Soak hay to pull sugars out before feeding
- Turn horses out on dry lots
- Limit or avoid grazing at times of day when sugars in grasses are the highest
- Use a grazing muzzle
- Pair horses with similar eating habits so competition doesn’t encourage eating to beat the other horse(s)
Access to grass is only part of the equation. The nutrient profile of hay reflects the type and maturity of the forage. For example, alfalfa is a nutrient-rich hay that is often recommended for performance horses and horses with gastric ulcers. However, the high nutrient levels can be too much for easy keepers or those horses not working. Grass hays cut back on nutrient density while still meeting the horse’s nutritional needs. You can also select a more mature hay for these horses.
Take-Home Message
Forage is fundamental, but one size doesn’t fit all. Work with your veterinarian or nutritionist to choose the right type and amount for your horse.