When it comes to food and nutrition, your horse can have traditional hay, grass, and oats, as well as more modern pellets. The digestive system of a horse can process large amounts of grass, which is abundant in fiber and water. Most horses should have grass and good quality hay, which are free of dust and mold. Further, clean and unfrozen water should be available to horses, even if they drink infrequently. In general, horses should be allowed to graze or eat when they want to. A hungry horse may suffer, as an empty stomach tends to cause ulcers, which are rather common in sport and race horses. The amount of feed necessary for proper food and nutrition intake depends on many different factors like activity level and health condition. Generally, however, horses should eat from 2 to 4 percent of their body weight in pounds of hay or other feeds. You have to keep an eye on your horse to make sure he is maintaining a decent weight. Your veterinarian can help you with proper food and nutrition habits.

Grain mixes are also an available option. They are not always the best choice, as they contain a lot of calories and carbohydrates. Foals that are fed high calorie diets may develop joint and bone problems. Adult horses can develop certain muscle disorders because of the extra carbohydrates. Some people keep horses extra grain in the winter for warmth. This is a misconception as hay produces more heat when digested. Changes in the diet need to be made slowly. Abrupt changes may cause health conditions concerning the intestines. It is always a good idea to discuss food matters with your equine veterinarian.

Related Articles

Choosing a Horse

Adopting A Horse

Buying From A Horse Breeder

Basic Care

Horse Supplies

Grooming

Fleas & Ticks

Health Conditions

Obedience & Training

Choosing A Trainer

Basic Commands

Common Behavior Problems

Communication

Socialization

Exercise

Horses for Kids

Horse Vs. Pony

Horse Feeding