How to Choose the Right Feed for Your Horse

Published on March 5, 2025 by Texas Border Tours

Feeding your horse the right diet is crucial for their health, energy levels, and overall well-being. With so many options on the market, from grains and hay to commercial feed and supplements, it can be overwhelming to determine what’s best for your horse. Here at Texas Border Tours, we know that a well-fed horse is a happy and high-performing horse. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the right feed for your equine companion.

Understanding Your Horse’s Nutritional Needs

Every horse is unique, and their nutritional requirements vary based on:

Age: Foals, adult horses, and senior horses have different dietary needs.
Activity Level: A trail horse requires a different diet than a racehorse.
Breed: Some breeds have higher metabolism rates or specific dietary requirements.
Health Conditions: Horses with metabolic disorders or digestive issues need special diets.
Weight Management: Maintaining the right balance of calories is key to avoiding obesity or malnutrition.

Types of Horse Feed

There are several categories of horse feed, each serving a different purpose. Let’s break down the main options:

1. Forage (Hay & Pasture)

Forage should make up at least 50-70% of your horse’s diet. It provides the fiber necessary for a healthy digestive system.

Grass Hay: A good option for most horses, including Timothy, Bermuda, and Orchard grass.
Legume Hay: Alfalfa and clover are higher in protein and calcium, ideal for growing or working horses.
Pasture Grass: Fresh pasture is the most natural feed, but its nutritional value varies by season.

2. Concentrates (Grains & Commercial Feeds)

Concentrates provide additional energy and nutrients for horses that need more than just forage.

Oats: Highly digestible and a favorite among horse owners.
Corn: A dense energy source but must be fed in moderation.
Barley: Good for moderate energy needs but should be rolled or crushed.
Commercial Feeds: Designed with balanced vitamins, minerals, and protein for different types of horses.

3. Supplements

Some horses need additional vitamins and minerals beyond what their regular feed provides.

Vitamin & Mineral Supplements: Beneficial for horses on hay-only diets.
Joint Supplements: Great for senior or performance horses to support mobility.
Electrolytes: Help replenish lost minerals, especially in hot climates.
Fat Supplements: Oils like flaxseed or rice bran for extra calories and a shiny coat.

How to Choose the Best Feed for Your Horse

Now that you know the basics, here’s how to select the right feed for your horse:

1. Assess Your Horse’s Condition

Check their body condition score (BCS) on a scale of 1-9. A score of 4-6 is ideal for most horses. If your horse is too thin or overweight, you’ll need to adjust their diet accordingly.

2. Match Feed to Workload

A pasture pet or lightly ridden horse may need only good-quality hay, while a hardworking trail horse may require grains and supplements for added energy.

3. Consider Any Health Issues

Some horses have special dietary needs:

Senior Horses: Require easy-to-chew feeds and extra fiber.
Metabolic Horses: May need low-sugar, low-starch diets.
Performance Horses: Benefit from higher fat and protein content.

4. Read Feed Labels

Look for protein, fat, fiber, and vitamin/mineral content to ensure your horse gets a balanced diet.

5. Make Dietary Changes Slowly

Whenever switching feeds, transition gradually over 7-10 days to prevent digestive issues like colic.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right feed for your horse is about understanding their individual needs and balancing forage, concentrates, and supplements appropriately. If you're unsure, consulting with an equine nutritionist or veterinarian can help tailor a diet that keeps your horse healthy and performing at their best.

At Texas Border Tours, we know that a well-fed horse is a happy horse, and we take pride in ensuring our herd gets the best care possible. Whether you own a horse or just love them, knowing about proper nutrition is key to keeping these incredible animals strong and healthy.

Have questions? Leave a comment or visit us on one of our trail rides to see our horses in action!