Proper nutrition is the foundation of equine health, and one of the most important considerations in feeding horses is balancing forage and concentrates. Horses have evolved as grazing animals, primarily consuming forage such as grasses and hay, but in modern equine management, concentrates like grain-based feeds are often added to their diets. Understanding the role of each and finding the right balance can optimize health, performance, and longevity for your horse.
The Importance of Forage
Forage—whether in the form of fresh pasture, hay, or high fiber chopped hay—should always be the primary component of a horse’s diet. It provides essential fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps the gut functioning properly. Horses have a digestive system designed to process small, frequent meals of fibrous material, making forage the best foundation for their health. A forage-based diet for horses supports their natural grazing behavior while ensuring they receive the nutrients they need.
Benefits of Forage:
- Supports Digestive Health: Fiber helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome and reduces the risk of colic and gastric ulcers.
- Encourages Natural Chewing Behavior: Chewing forage stimulates saliva production, which helps buffer stomach acid and reduce the risk of ulcers.
- Maintains a Healthy Weight: Forage is lower in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) than many concentrates, reducing the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders.
- Provides Mental Stimulation: Horses that have constant access to forage are less likely to develop behavioral issues like cribbing and weaving due to boredom.
The Role of Concentrates
Concentrates, including grains and commercial pelleted or extruded feeds, provide a dense source of energy, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. While not necessary for every horse, concentrates can be beneficial for horses with higher energy demands or specific dietary needs. When introducing concentrates for horses into their diet, it is best practice to do so gradually over a period of multiple weeks. However, portions should be carefully measured to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to health issues.
Benefits of Concentrates:
- Provides Extra Calories for Hard Keepers: Horses that struggle to maintain weight may benefit from calorie-dense concentrate feeds.
- Supports Performance Horses: Horses in intense training or competition often require more energy than forage alone can provide.
- Balances Nutrient Deficiencies: Some hays may lack essential nutrients, and fortified concentrates can help bridge the gap.
- Convenience and Consistency: Commercial feeds provide a controlled, balanced source of nutrition that may not vary as much as forage quality.
Finding the Right Balance
Every horse is unique, and the optimal balance between forage and concentrate depends on factors such as age, workload, metabolism, and overall health. Here are some key considerations for achieving the right diet:
- Prioritize Forage – Horses should consume at least 1.5–2% of their body weight in forage daily. This ensures a healthy digestive system and minimizes the risk of colic and ulcers.
- Assess Individual Needs – Easy keepers and horses in light work may thrive on forage alone, while hard-working or senior horses may need added concentrates for extra energy and nutrients.
- Choose High-Quality Forage – Nutrient-dense hay and access to pasture can reduce the need for supplemental concentrates.
- Use Concentrates Wisely – Introduce concentrates gradually and feed small, frequent meals to avoid digestive upset.
- Monitor Body Condition and Adjust Accordingly – Regularly assess your horse’s body condition score (BCS) to determine if dietary adjustments are needed.
- Consult with an Equine Nutritionist or Veterinarian – Professional guidance ensures a diet tailored to your horse’s specific needs.
Balancing forage and concentrates is essential for maintaining a healthy, happy horse. While forage should always be the foundation of a horse’s diet, concentrates can provide valuable supplementation when needed. By understanding your horse’s individual requirements and making informed feeding choices, you can support their long-term health, performance, and well-being.
