Pets Depot AIAI pet wellness
Horse · Guide
What should I feed a horse?
Forage first. Grass or hay at roughly 1.5–2% of body weight daily is the base of every horse's diet. Concentrates and grain are added only as workload or condition require — never as the base. For a 1,000 lb horse that's roughly 15–20 lb of forage per day.
Why forage has to come first
Horses evolved to graze almost continuously, and their digestive system reflects it: a small stomach designed for a steady trickle rather than large meals. Long gaps without forage raise the risk of gastric ulcers, and sudden grain-heavy meals are a classic trigger for colic and laminitis.
Constant fibre intake also keeps the hindgut functioning. This is the single most important principle in equine feeding.
When grain is actually needed
Many horses in light work don't need concentrates at all — good forage plus a vitamin and mineral balancer covers them. Grain becomes appropriate with genuine workload, or for horses struggling to hold condition.
If concentrates are needed, split them into smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large feed.
Water, salt and change
Constant access to clean water is non-negotiable — a horse drinks 5–10 gallons daily, more in heat or work. A salt block should always be available; sodium is one of the few genuinely universal supplements for horses.
Any dietary change should be made over 7–14 days. Abrupt changes are a well-established colic risk.
Check your own pet — freeSnap a few photos, get a wellness score in minutesA wellness check, not a diagnosis — and never a replacement for your vet. If something seems wrong with your animal, see a veterinarian.
Common questions
How much hay does a horse need per day?
Roughly 1.5–2% of body weight — about 15–20 lb of hay daily for a 1,000 lb horse.
Do all horses need grain?
No. Many horses in light work do well on forage plus a vitamin and mineral balancer. Grain is added for workload or condition, not by default.
How quickly can I change a horse's feed?
Gradually, over 7–14 days. Sudden changes are a recognised colic risk.