Basic Rules in Horse Feeding

As a horse owner, one of the major responsibilities you have is to feed your horse responsibly. Feeding a horse, if done improperly can be dangerous to horses. It can even be fatal to them. For instance, overfeeding grains to your horses can be a reason for them to develop colic or gas build up, which can make them unable to burp. This can be a very serious problem for horses and can lead to their death. Before you start taking care of horses, make sure that you are already well-informed about the proper ways and maintenance of these animals especially when it comes to their feeding. There are basic rules and guidelines to follow when feeding horses and some of them are the following:

1.     Remember to feed little but often. A horse’s stomach is relatively small that is why they can only take in small amount of food. However, you should not forget to give them feeds at a regular interval so they would not feel the hunger. Horses should be fed after every 6-8 hours.

2.     Bulk feeds are good for horses. Their digestive system should be filled with food every time for them to work efficiently. Give them bulk feeds such as hay and grasses for their stomach to be full always.

3.     Learn the exact amount and type. There are different kinds of feeds to give to horses but before you use them, you have to know first the exact and precise measurements that are appropriate for them. Giving them the wrong amount can be cause of mental and physical problems.

4.     Quality is necessary. It is not enough to give them food with the right amount. You should also prioritize the quality of feeds you are giving them.

5.     Sudden diet changes are bad. If you plan to give them new kinds of feeds, make sure that you introduce it to them gradually, unless you want your horses to have digestive problems.

6.     Let them rest after they feed. Do not feed your horses immediately before you let them work. Give them at least an hour to rest after feeding them; otherwise, it can cause breathing problems and colic issues as well.

7.     Be consistent. Horses are used to routines and habits so make sure that you have a constant horse feeding schedule.

8.     Give succulent food daily. Aside from giving them grasses and hays, it is also important to give them juicy food such as apples or carrots that can provide essential vitamins to their body.