Horse feeding: basics, tips and common mistakes

The basics of horse feeding

➡️ Video tip: In this video you will learn everything important about the the basics of horse feeding - from the correct feed composition and calculation of requirements to practical implementation for a healthy and happy horse.

Digestive system of the horse

The horse 's digestive system is unique and requires special attention for the health of the animal. Horses have a small stomach and are dependent on a continuous supply of food. Food is crushed by teeth, mixed with saliva and enters the stomach via the esophagus. The stomach only stores food for a short time and has a volume of 15-20 liters.

Nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine (16-24 meters, 40-100 liters). The large intestine (cecum, colon, rectum) ferments fiber-rich components by microorganisms - important for the energy supply through crude fiber.

Briefly summarized:

• Lips: Sort the food.
• Teeth: Incisors cut grass, molars grind the food.
• Mouth cavity: The food is mixed with saliva and the first sugars are absorbed.
• Oesophagus: Transports the food into the stomach.
• Stomach: volume of about 15-20 liters; retention time 1-5 hours. Decomposition of sugar and starch by bacteria, hydrochloric acid interrupts bacterial fermentation, pepsin breaks down proteins.
• Small intestine: 16-24 meters long, volume 40-100 liters. Breaks down proteins, carbohydrates and fats; nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Blind intestine and large colon: Blind intestine (approx. 30 liters) and large colon (approx. 100 liters) are the main sites of cellulose digestion by microorganisms; retention time 15-20 hours.
• Small colon and rectum: Drain water and salts; feces are formed.‍
• Anus: Defecates.

Continuous feeding of small amounts rich in crude fiber supports the intestinal flora and prevents digestive problems.

Special features and sensitivities‍

Horses have a sensitive digestive system that can react strongly to sudden feed changes, large quantities of concentrated feed or unsuitable feed. The microflora in the large intestine only adapts slowly, which is why feed changes must be made gradually. A disturbed balance of the microflora can lead to digestive disorders such as colic or diarrhea.

Due to their small stomach and long digestive tract, horses need regular small amounts of feed to prevent digestive disorders and support intestinal health.

Feeding behavior in the wild

What do horses eat in the wild? In the wild, horses spend most of the day eating. As constant feeders, they feed primarily on grasses, herbs and other plant materials. Their digestive system is designed to continuously ingest small amounts of fiber-rich feed. This natural feeding behavior maintains constant intestinal activity and promotes the health and well-being of the horse.

Comparison with domesticated husbandry

Domesticated horses often have limited food and less natural exercise. Keeping them in stalls or on limited pastures can lead to feed breaks, which goes against their natural behavior and can cause stress, boredom and health problems such as stomach ulcers or colic are favored. Natural feeding with regular small portions of fiber-rich feed is therefore crucial.

Main components of horse feed

Roughage

Roughage forms the basis of horse feeding and is essential for the health and well-being of horses. It provides the necessary crude fibre, which promotes intestinal flora, stabilizes digestion and supports natural chewing behaviour. The most common types of roughage include hay, straw and grass.

➡️ Video tip: In this video you will receive valuable tips on grazing horses - learn how to gradually get your horse used to fresh grass, minimize risks such as colic and laminitis and find the optimal schedule for a safe transition to grazing.

An adequate supply of high-quality roughage not only provides meaningful activity, but also prevents digestive disorders such as colic or stomach ulcers. Roughage should always be fresh and free from mold or dust to avoid respiratory problems and other health risks. Ideally, horses should consume at least 1.5 to 2 kg of roughage per 100 kg of body weight to fully cover their crude fiber requirements.

Good hay should be fresh, crisp and aromatic smelling, fluffy and dust-free. The time of cutting influences the content of leaves and flowers, and it must be stored for at least six weeks before it is fed. Hay that is over a year old has a lower nutrient content.

High-quality silage/haylage is characterized by its aromatic smell, rich structure, optimum moisture and freedom from poisonous plants and impurities . It should always be fresh and opened bales must be used up quickly.

Good straw, mainly wheat, barley or oat straw, should be golden yellow (for wheat straw) or dull yellow (for other types), loose to the touch, neutral smelling and free from impurities, mold and dust. Horses with dental problems, especially older horses, can be given softened hay cobs (grass cobs) as a basic feed.

Concentrated feed

Concentrated feed supplements the basic supply of roughage and is used to cover the energy and nutritional requirements of horses with higher demands, such as sport horses, working horses or horses with special health needs. Typical types of concentrated feed include cereals such as oats, barley and maize, as well as special mixtures in the form of pellets and muesli. Oats are particularly easy to digest and are well tolerated by many horses, while barley and maize provide more energy but are more difficult to digest. Concentrated feed should be fed selectively and in moderation, as overfeeding can lead to digestive problems such as colic or metabolic disorders. It is important to tailor the feed to the horse's individual needs, age, performance and state of health in order to avoid over- or underfeeding.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of concentrates in order to make the best use of them in horse feeding. Each concentrate has specific properties that should be tailored to the horse's individual requirements in order to ensure a balanced diet and avoid health problems. What is the best concentrated feed for horses? In the table you will find an overview of the most common types of concentrates with their advantages and disadvantages:

‍Juice feed

Juice feed contains fresh fruit and vegetables and is used as a supplement to basic and concentrated feed in horse feeding. It offers a variety of vitamins, minerals and a natural way to increase the water content in the daily feed. Typical types of juice feed for horses are apples, carrots, beet and occasionally other suitable fruits and vegetables. The advantages of juice feed are the high acceptance and the flavor enrichment of the feed, which brings variety to the diet. However, it should be fed in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to an excess of sugar in the diet, which can be particularly problematic for horses with metabolic disorders such as EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome). When choosing juice feed, it is important to look for safe varieties and avoid harmful or poisonous plants.

To ensure that horses are fed a healthy and balanced diet, supplementing with fruit and vegetables can be useful. They provide valuable vitamins and minerals and offer a tasty variety. However, it is important to feed suitable varieties in controlled quantities to avoid health problems. Which fruit can horses eat? The following table provides an overview of suitable and unsuitable fruit and vegetables for horses, including their advantages and disadvantages:

Which fruit and vegetables are horses not allowed to eat?

It is important to choose the right fruit and vegetables for horses, as not all varieties are suitable for them. Some fruits and vegetables contain toxic substances or can severely disrupt digestion. It is therefore important to know exactly which foods are safe for horses and which are best avoided. In the following clear table, you can find out which types of fruit and vegetables horses are not allowed to eat and why.

‍Mineral feed

Mineral feed plays a crucial role in the nutrition of horses, as it provides essential minerals and trace elements that are essential for numerous bodily functions. These nutrients support bone formation, muscle function, the immune system and hoof health, among other things.

➡️ Video tip: In this video you will learn everything you need to know about Mineral feed for horses - from the most important nutrients and trace elements to the correct dosage and tips on feeding needs-based feeding for different types of horses. Gain valuable insights into how you can promote your horse's health and performance through targeted mineral supplementation.

Why do horses need mineral feed?

Although high-quality hay and pasture grass form the basis of horse feed, they do not always cover the entire mineral requirement. Factors such as soil conditions, plant type and time of harvest influence the nutrient content of the feed. Deficiencies can therefore occur, which should be compensated for by the administration of mineral feed.

Important ingredients of mineral feed

‍Ahigh-quality mineral feed contains:

• Macroelements: Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and sodium are required in larger quantities and support functions such as bone formation and muscle work.
• Trace elements: Zinc, copper, selenium and manganese are required in smaller quantities, but are essential for processes such as the immune system and hoof health.
• Vitamins: Vitamins A, D and E support the immune system, bone health and antioxidant processes.

➡️ Video tip: In this video Dr. Felicitas Drebes the important tasks of the individual trace elements and gives valuable tips on how you can ensure sufficient supply for your horse. Learn all about the importance of zinc, copper, selenium and co. for your horse's health and how you can avoid possible deficiencies.

Vitamins

‍Vitamins are essential organic substances, some of which can be produced by the body itself, while others must be supplied. The fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K as well as the water-soluble vitamins, which include all the others, play a crucial role in the horse's organism. There are usually enough vitamins in high-quality forage and grass to cover the requirements. It is important to note that a balanced diet for horses ensures that they receive all the necessary vitamins in appropriate amounts.

The required vitamins include:

• Vitamin A: strengthens night vision, nerve functions and the immune system of our horses. It is absorbed through grass and fresh hay.
• Vitamin D: supports bone formation and absorbs calcium and phosphorus from the horse's intestines. Vitamin D is formed through exposure to sunlight and can also be detected in sun-dried feed.
• Vitamin E: contributes to muscle function and fat metabolism. It is found in cereals and cereal sprouts.
• Vitamin K: ensures well-functioning blood clotting. It is absorbed via pasture grass and hay. It is also produced by self-synthesis in the large intestine.
• Vitamin C: strengthens the immune system and muscle function. It is obtained from glucose through self-synthesis.
• Vitamin B1: is responsible for carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It is obtained from cereals and green fodder and is also synthesized in the body.
• Vitamin B2: regulates metabolism and skin regeneration. This vitamin is produced exclusively by self-synthesis.
• Vitamin B12: ensures a functioning cell metabolism and is produced by the body
• Vitamin B6: ensures the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats and is also produced naturally in the body.
• Biotin: regulates the build-up of fat and the structure of hair and hooves. It can be added to corn, yeast, green fodder and soy.

Supplements: Does my horse need additional feed?

➡️ Video tip: Watch this video to find out which supplements are really useful for horses and what you should look out for when choosing them. From vitamins and minerals to amino acids and joint-supporting supplements - we explain when and why you should give such supplements to optimally support your horse's health and performance. Get practical tips on how to use them and find out when it is important to consult a vet or feeding expert.

Nutritional supplements for horses are products that are administered in addition to the regular feed to cover specific nutritional requirements or to support certain health aspects. The need for such supplements depends on various factors, including the horse's age, state of health, performance requirements and feeding conditions.

Types of nutritional supplements for horses:

1. Vitamins and minerals: These supplements are used to compensate for possible deficiencies, especially if the basic feed does not provide all the necessary micronutrients. For example, vitamin and mineral supplements can promote the horse's health and well-being.
2. Amino acids: Essential amino acids are essential for muscle building and general health. As horses cannot synthesize certain amino acids themselves, they must be supplied through food. Amino acid supplements can be administered in various forms, for example as powder, pellets, tablets or liquid supplements.
3. Joint-supporting preparations: Products with ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin or hyaluronic acid are intended to promote joint health and are often used for older horses or those under high stress.
4. Probiotics and prebiotics: These support the intestinal flora and can improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
5. Herbs and herbal supplements: Certain herbs are used to support the immune system, to calm or to promote the respiratory tract.

Necessity of food supplements:

Whether a horse needs nutritional supplements depends on individual factors:

• Basic feeding: A balanced diet with high-quality roughage and, if necessary, concentrated feed covers the nutritional requirements in many cases.
• Performance requirements: Sport horses or horses under high stress may have an increased need for certain nutrients.
• Health condition: Supplements can be useful for certain illnesses or during recovery to support the healing process.
• Age: Older horses often have special needs that can be met with targeted supplements.

It is important to emphasize that not every horse needs nutritional supplements. Overdosing or improper use can cause health problems. Therefore, supplements should always be administered in consultation with a vet or feeding expert to determine the actual requirements and ensure optimal care.

Feeding management

Feeding management is an essential part of horse husbandry and directly influences the health, performance and well-being of the animals. A balanced diet that is tailored to the individual needs of the horse, as well as a well thought-out organization of feeding times, water supply and feeding techniques are crucial to avoid stress, digestive problems and feed envy. Well thought-out feeding management helps to respect the horse's natural needs and optimize nutrient intake.

Feeding times and frequency

Well thought-out feeding management helps to promote the health and well-being of horses. The correct timing of feeding times and the frequency of meals play an important role in avoiding digestive disorders and supporting the horse's natural feeding rhythm.

Importance of fixed feeding times

‍Thedaily feed ration should be divided into several portions to relieve the horse's digestive system. Fixed feeding times promote intestinal health and ensure better nutrient absorption. Regular feeding reduces stress and prevents stomach problems such as colic.

Number of meals per day

‍Ideally, horses should receive their feed in two to four portions per day. A large ration in the evening gives the horse enough time to digest the food during the night. Roughage such as hay, straw or silage should always be available if possible, especially for horses with a high crude fiber requirement. Concentrated feed should be fed after the roughage to avoid hasty gorging.

Water supply‍

‍Freshwater is essential for the health of horses. It supports numerous metabolic functions and regulates body balance. The quality and availability of drinking water is therefore a key aspect of feed management.

Daily water requirement‍

Horses need access to fresh and clean water at all times. The daily requirement varies depending on temperature, type of feed and physical activity. On average, the drinking water requirement is 15-30 liters per day, but can rise to over 40 liters if demand increases. It is important to check the water containers daily and clean them regularly to ensure a continuous supply of clean water. In addition, self-waterers should be checked regularly to ensure that they are working properly. Particular care should be taken in winter to ensure that the drinkers do not freeze over. Heated drinkers are particularly recommended, as studies have shown that horses are much less likely to drink ice-cold water than lukewarm water.

Water quality and temperature

‍Thewater must be checked regularly for cleanliness and the containers cleaned. Especially in winter, it is important to ensure that the drinking troughs do not freeze over. Horses drink lukewarm water more frequently and in larger quantities than ice-cold water. Self-watering troughs should be checked regularly to ensure that they are working properly.

Avoid food envy and stress

Avoiding food envy and stress when feeding horses is important to promote the well-being and health of the animals. In group housing, competitive behavior can quickly arise, causing stress and conflict. With the right measures, feeding can be made less stressful so that every horse can eat in a relaxed manner.

Measures to avoid food envy and stress:

• Establish fixed feeding times
  Horses are creatures of habit and appreciate fixed routines. Regular feeding times reduce restlessness and minimize competitive behaviour among the animals. However, stress can still occur if the times are not adhered to.
• Feed all horses at the same time
  To avoid conflicts, all horses should be fed at the same time. This reduces feed envy, as all animals have access to the feed at the same time.
• Provide sufficient feeding places
  In group housing, there should be more feeding places than horses. This ensures that lower-ranking animals can also eat undisturbed.
• Use of hay nets and hay racks
  The use of hay nets and hay racks slows down feed intake and extends feeding times. This reduces hasty eating and reduces stress in the herd.
• Individual feeding on demand
  Horses with special feed requirements should be fed separately to avoid conflicts and ensure that they can consume the required ration undisturbed.
• Create a calm environment
  A stress-free environment during feeding promotes relaxed eating and reduces the likelihood of food envy and conflict in the herd.

These measures can help to ensure stress-free and harmonious feeding, which improves the well-being of the horses in the long term.

Grazing

The correct management of grazing and feed conversion is crucial for the horse's health.

Grazing

Horses should receive the same feed every day, as they find enough variety in their basic feed and on pasture. Feed changes must be gradual in order to adapt the intestinal flora, especially when changing in spring and fall. Sudden changes to grass can trigger colic, diarrhea or laminitis.

To start with, we recommend 20 minutes of grazing per day with a gradual increase. After a few weeks, the horse can spend the whole day in the paddock. Hay or straw remains important for the crude fiber requirement. For horses prone to laminitis, a reduced grazing schedule is recommended in consultation with the vet.

You should know these poisonous plants!

Knowledge of poisonous plants is very important for horse owners, as even small amounts of certain plant species can lead to serious health problems and even death. Many of these plants grow in pastures, along roadsides or even in gardens and can cause serious symptoms of poisoning if ingested by horses. Symptoms range from colic and cardiac arrhythmia to neurological deficits and respiratory arrest. The sensitivity of horses to these plants makes it important to regularly check pasture areas and remove potential sources of danger. In the following overview, some of the most common poisonous plants and their effects are presented to make horse owners aware of the potential risks and to help prevent poisoning.

Immediate measures in the event of ingestion of toxic feed

If a horse is suspected of having ingested poisonous plants or feed, quick and targeted action is crucial to protect its health and prevent potentially life-threatening poisoning. Here are the most important immediate measures:

1. Stay calm and secure the horse
   Keep the horse calm to avoid stress and panic. If necessary, lead it to a safe place where it cannot injure itself.
2. Inform the vet
   Inform the vet immediately and describe the symptoms, the type of plant or food ingested and the estimated quantity. The sooner the vet is informed, the better he can intervene.
3. Secure toxic plant residues
   If possible, collect samples of the suspected plant or feed that the horse has eaten. This will help the vet to determine the exact cause and take targeted countermeasures.
4. Prevent the horse from eating
   Prevent the horse from continuing to eat, especially suspicious food. Make sure it has fresh water available, but do not force it to drink.
5. Observe symptoms
   Make a note of any symptoms such as colic, tremors, breathing problems, salivation, diarrhea, weakness or cramps. This information is important for the vet to assess the type of poisoning and the severity of the condition.
6. Do not self-medicate
   Do not give your horse any home remedies or medication without consulting your vet. This could aggravate the situation or make the diagnosis more difficult.
7. Prevention of further poisoning
   Check the pasture, hay stores and feed store for other potentially poisonous plants or substances to prevent future incidents.

Acting quickly and involving the vet can make the difference between successful treatment and serious poisoning. The welfare of the horse is paramount in cases of poisoning, which is why immediate action and close cooperation with the vet are essential.

Feeding sport horses, seniors and sick horses correctly

The feeding of a horse must be individually tailored to its stage of life, sporting activity and any health problems. There are various special features that should be taken into account in order to promote the animal's well-being and performance.

Feeding sport horses

Feeding sport horses requires special attention in order to maximize performance and health. Here are the most important points to consider when feeding sport horses:

➤ Adequate roughage supply:
High-quality hay should form the basis of the horse's diet. At least 1.5 kg of hay per 100 kg of the horse's body weight is recommended. This supports digestion and provides essential nutrients.

➤ Adapted energy supply:
Energy requirements vary depending on the intensity of training. In addition to roughage, concentrates such as oats, barley or maize can be added to cover the increased energy requirement. The amount should be carefully adjusted to the individual performance in order to avoid overfeeding and the associated metabolic problems.

➤ Balanced nutrient supply:
In addition to energy intake, proteins, vitamins and minerals are crucial. Proteins support the muscle buildingwhile vitamins and minerals are important for metabolic processes and general health. A balanced feed ration or targeted feed supplements can be useful to promote performance.

➤ Sufficient water supply:
Fresh water should be available at all times, as sport horses lose more fluids during training and competitions. Sufficient hydration is essential for performance and well-being.

Feeding times and frequency:
Several small meals throughout the day are better than a few large meals. This aids digestion and prevents stomach problems. Concentrated feed should not be fed directly before training; an interval of 3 to 5 hours is ideal.

➤ A void sudden feed changes:
Any change in the feed plan should be gradual to allow the intestinal flora to adapt and avoid digestive disorders.

➤ Consideration of individual needs:
Every horse is unique. Age, health status and specific requirements should be taken into account when planning feed. A regular review of the nutritional status and, if necessary, a consultation with a feeding expert are recommended.

By paying attention to these points, the diet can be optimally adapted to the needs of sport horses, resulting in better performance and good health.

Feeding seniors

➡️ Video tipLearn how to help your senior horse gain vitality and strength with the right feed! Click here to learn which feeds, nutrients and feeding strategies are ideal for older horses. Avoid deficiencies and support your horse's well-being - watch now!

Feeding older horses requires special attention in order to maintain their health and vitality. Good quality hay should form the basis of the diet as it is an important source of roughage. In the event of dental problems, soaked hay cobs or hay flakes can serve as an alternative to facilitate feed intake.

The energy requirements of older horses vary depending on their activity level. If weight loss occurs, energy-dense feedstuffs such as soaked beet pulp or special senior mixtures are a suitable choice to ensure the necessary calorie intake. Older horses also benefit from easily digestible nutrients such as proteins and fats. Linseed oil, for example, can serve as a high-quality source of energy and increase calorie intake.

An adequate supply of vitamins and minerals is also crucial. Vitamin A, E, zinc and selenium are particularly important, as older horses often do not get sufficient amounts of these nutrients from their basic feed. Probiotics and prebiotics can also promote intestinal health and improve nutrient absorption. Regular worming and dental checks also support digestion.

Small, frequent meals relieve the digestive system and help to keep blood sugar levels stable. Fresh water should always be available as it is essential for good health. In cold weather, lukewarm water can increase the willingness to drink. By taking these aspects into account, the diet of older horses can be optimally adapted to their needs, which significantly improves their health and quality of life.

Feeding for health problems

Metabolic diseases (e.g. EMS)

Horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) require a diet low in sugar and starch. The main focus is on reducing carbohydrates and providing structure-richroughage in order to optimize the insulin metabolism stabilize the insulin metabolism.

Gastrointestinal problems

For horses with gastrointestinal problems, small, frequent meals are ideal to regulate stomach acid production. Feed with a low acid content, such as alfalfa hay, and avoiding straw as the sole roughage contribute to gastrointestinal health.

Allergies and intolerances

Horses with allergies and intolerances require special feeding plans. Avoiding allergens, testing for specific feed ingredients and feeding hypoallergenic supplements help to alleviate symptoms.

Common mistakes in horse feeding

Mistakes in horse feeding can lead to health problems. Understanding and avoiding common mistakes is essential. Here is an overview of how these affect your horse's health and well-being and how they can be avoided. Correct feeding minimizes over- or underfeeding, digestive problems and other health risks.

Is your horse too fat? Take the test!

The Body Conditioning Score (BCS) is a useful tool to better understand your horse's nutritional status and body condition. With our free and quick online test, you can easily determine your horse's BCS. By assessing six areas of the body - neck, shoulders, ribs, back, croup and rump - you can get a comprehensive idea of whether your horse is in ideal condition, too thin or too fat.

The test works like this: Use the sliders to rate each area of your horse's body based on the visibility and palpability of fat reserves. The rating scale ranges from 1 (very lean) to 9 (very overweight). At the end of the test, an average BCS score is calculated, giving you an accurate assessment of your horse's nutritional status.

Important: The BCS is particularly useful for optimally adjusting your horse's feeding and feed quantity. All you have to do is adjust the sliders for each region and you will receive a clear assessment. This way you can ensure that your horse stays healthy and in top condition - quickly, easily and free of charge!

Based on the BCS and various body measurements, the body weight can be calculated quite accurately - a practical method if no scales are available. The calculation is based on the following formula:

The determined body weight and BCS can be used to determine the appropriate amount of feed for your horse. For very thin or very overweight horses in particular, body weight alone is not sufficient for a comprehensive calculation, especially if the aim is to gain or lose weight.

Innovative feeding trends in horse nutrition

Several innovative trends are emerging in the world of horse nutrition today, aimed at improving the health, well-being and performance of our horses. 

• Personalized feeding plans:
  With advances in technology, horse owners can now access personalized feeding plans. These are based on individual needs, including age, breed, health status, activity level and specific requirements. By taking these factors into account, a tailored diet is ensured.
• Functional foods:
  Similar to human nutrition, functional feeds for horses are becoming increasingly important. These are feedstuffs that go beyond the traditional nutrients and offer additional health-promoting benefits. For example, ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids for improved joint health or special herbs for the respiratory tract can be used. 
• Superfoods:
  The use of "superfoods" in horse feed is becoming increasingly popular. These include ingredients such as chia seeds, linseed, spirulina and turmeric, which are valued for their high levels of essential nutrients and antioxidant properties. These superfoods are said to promote the general health and immune system of horses.
• Minimal processing:
  There is an increasing trend towards less processed feed. There is a preference for feed that is minimally processed and as close as possible to its natural state. This is to ensure that the horses benefit from the full nutritional content of the ingredients used.
• Innovative delivery methods:
  In addition to traditional forms of feed, innovative delivery methods are also gaining in importance. These include, for example, supplementary pellets, liquid feed or special feed bags, which are designed to make feeding more interesting and appealing for the horse.
• Sustainability:
  The search for sustainable and environmentally friendly animal feed is gaining momentum. More and more feed is being used that not only meets nutritional requirements but is also produced in an environmentally friendly way.

These trends show that feeding horses is not just a question of providing them with essential nutrients, but that there is also an increasing focus on promoting their health and well-being.

Horse feeding: Summarized

Feeding horses is a complex subject that requires special attention and individual adjustments. From the basics of horse nutrition and the horse's digestive system to the main components of feed and special requirements for sport horses, senior horses and sick horses - every facet of feeding influences the well-being, health and performance of our animals.

It is particularly important to use high-quality roughage as a basis and to use concentrates and supplements as required. Feeding errors such as sudden feed changes or overfeeding can have serious consequences. At the same time, innovative approaches such as personalized feeding plans and superfoods open up new opportunities to promote the health of horses.

Proper feeding management and continuous monitoring of the body condition score (BCS) help to manage your horse's feeding condition and needs in a targeted manner. With comprehensive knowledge and well thought-out feeding strategies, you can make a decisive contribution to keeping your horse healthy, productive and happy.

Always remember that individual advice from a vet or feeding expert is essential in case of uncertainty to ensure the best possible care.

Horse feeding: The most important questions and answers

What are horses allowed to eat and what are they not allowed to eat?

‍Horsesshould mainly eat roughage such as hay and grass. Toxic plants, moldy or spoiled feed are taboo. Foods such as bread, sugar, avocado, onions and potatoes are also unsuitable.

What are horses with specific health problems not allowed to eat?‍

• Laminitis: Horses with laminitis need a diet low in sugar and starch to stabilize the insulin metabolism. High-sugar feed such as fresh grass, grain or carrots should be avoided.
  ➡️ You can find out more about the causes and management of laminitis in our article: Laminitis in horses.
• EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome): A low-carbohydrate diet is essential to regulate insulin metabolism and minimize the risk of laminitis.
  ➡️ Learn more about EMS and suitable feeding strategies here: Equine Metabolic Syndrome.
• Cushing's: Horses with Cushing's need a diet low in sugar and starch to support the hormone balance.
  ➡️ You can find detailed information on Cushing's here: Equine Cushing's syndrome.
• PSSM (polysaccharide storage myopathy): Horses with PSSM benefit from a diet low in grain but high in fat and fiber.
  ➡️ You can find out all about PSSM and the right diet here: PSSM and cross stall syndrome.

What can horses with PSSM eat?

‍Adiet with high-fat and high-fiber feed and reduced grain content is ideal. Oil can serve as an additional source of energy.

What herbs are horses allowed to eat?

‍Suitableherbs include camomile, fennel, nettle, mint and yarrow. They strengthen the immune system and support digestion.

Which concentrated feed is suitable for horses with sensitive stomachs?

‍Stomach-sensitivehorses should be fed concentrates with little or no grain content, preferably with a high fiber content and gentle energy.

Should horses eat straw?

‍Strawcan be used to supplement activity, but should be fed in moderation. It is not a substitute for hay as it contains fewer nutrients.

Which straw should horses not eat?

‍Oatstraw can cause digestive problems and should only be fed to a limited extent. Contaminated or moldy straw is also unsuitable.

What to do if horses eat wood?

‍Woodnibbling can indicate boredom, stress or a lack of nutrients. Provide more activity, sufficient roughage and check the mineral supply.

How long and how quickly does brewer's yeast work in horses?

‍Theeffect of brewer's yeast usually becomes apparent within a few days to weeks. It should be fed for several weeks to stabilize the intestinal flora.

Can you overdose on brewer's yeast?

‍Yes, an overdose can cause flatulence and a disturbed intestinal flora. The recommended dosage should therefore be adhered to.

What is the effect of manganese in horse feed?

‍Manganesesupports energy metabolism, connective tissue, enzyme activity and the health of bones and joints.