How to Feed Yearling Horses Grain

Managing a yearling's growth through proper nutrition is vital to avoiding potential lifelong soundness issues. A yearling's growth rate is approximately 60 to 75 percent of what it was as a weanling. Although its weight has doubled, it doesn't need twice the amount of grain, because its caloric requirements have increased by only 30 percent. Supporting moderate growth by offering the proper amount of high-quality grain concentrate will ensure your yearling's healthy skeletal development.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse-grain concentrate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide 1 lb. of grain for each 100 lbs. of the yearling's body weight per day. An 800-lb. yearling should receive a minimum of 8 lbs., but no more than 12 lbs., of grain concentrate each day, in addition to hay or pasture.

    • 2

      Divide the daily grain ration between two or three feedings. Yearlings have small stomachs and that will encourage better digestion.

    • 3

      Separate the yearling during feeding to ensure it receives the proper grain portions. That will avoid competition in group feeding situations.

    • 4

      Remove uneaten portions between feedings.

    • 5

      Alter grain portions periodically in response to your yearling's unique growth rate and individual body condition.

    • 6

      Adjust grain portions gradually as the yearling grows. When it reaches the age of two, half of its diet should come from grain and the other half from hay and pasture.

    • 7

      Provide 14- to 16-percent protein in your yearling's diet. Ensure hay never drops below 30 percent, as measured by weight.