- Always provide access to fresh, clean water – On average the horse drinks 25-30 litres per day (5 litres per 100kg of bodyweight). Horses need water to aid digestion and will not eat without having enough to drink.
- Forage first – forage (fibre) should be the basis of your horse's diet. This helps maintain gut function, fulfils behavioural needs and helps maintain body temperature. The forage content should make up 75%-100% of the diet and never fall below 50%. Feeding fibre before concentrates helps maximise nutrient extraction by slowing down digestion rates and the passage of food.
- Feed little and often – horses’ stomachs are relatively small - approximately the size of a rugby ball. Divide meals into several small feeds rather than one or two large feeds, generally, no more than 2kg per feed (for a 500kg horse) and add chaff to concentrates. The horses stomach works more effectively half to three-quarters full, than full.
- Do not work after feeding – generally wait an hour after feeding concentrates before exercising. Forage can be fed ad lib providing adequate warm-up is given. The digestive system may also be compromised if fed concentrates straight after exercise.
- Make any dietary changes gradually – to all feed and forage. Sudden changes may cause gastrointestinal upset, diarrhoea and colic. Gradual changes allow adaptation of the microbial population in the hindgut minimising risk of digestive upset.
- Feed each horse as an individual – according to weight, breed, type, age, temperament, workload, health status and time of the year.
- Feed good quality feedstuffs – good quality forages and concentrates will provide the best sources of nutrients.
- Keep to regular feed times – horses are creatures of habit and the absence of an expected feed can cause anxiety.
Do not be afraid to ask for help! Providing your horse with a nutritious, balanced diet is crucial to health, performance and wellbeing.